Comparison: Kumho Ecsta HS52 vs. Michelin Primacy 4+ vs. Continental UltraContact NXT

In this review, we will be comparing two popular touring summer tyres: the Kumho Ecsta HS52 and the Michelin Primacy 4+. Both tyres have a strong pedigree in the tyre market, with the Kumho Ecsta HS52 coming from a line of successful previous models, the last being the Kumho Ecsta HS51 while the Michelin Primacy 4+ follows the Michelin Primacy 4 and Michelin Primacy 3.

The Kumho Ecsta HS52, manufactured by Kumho, impresses with an overall rating of 78%. In tests, the HS52 performs particularly well in dry handling, dry braking, and wet braking. Autobild also authoritative commended the tyre for convincing performance on wet and dry surfaces, short braking distances, and its economical price. Some points of minor drawbacks include a mediocre roll-off comfort (Autobild 2024) and slight weaknesses in aquaplaning behaviour (ADAC 2024). However, its good predicted mileage and low fuel consumption make up for these minor quibbles.

Turning to the Michelin Primacy 4+, from the renowned Michelin manufacturer, this tyre boasts a solid overall rating of 77%. Test results highlight its excellent exterior noise reduction and balanced high performance. The tyre also exhibits superior handling qualities, short dry braking distances, excellent mileage, and efficiency (Autobild 2024). ADAC 2024 also appreciated its balanced riding properties on both dry and wet surfaces and its low weight and fuel consumption, but slight aquaplaning weaknesses were also noted.

In head-to-head tests, these tyres fared closely. In the Vibilagare, Autobild, ADAC, and Autoklub ČR tests, Kumho Ecsta HS52 achieved positions of 3rd, 2nd, 8th, and 13th respectively out of 9, 55, 50, and 19 tested tyres. In contrast, the Michelin Primacy 4+ placed at 7th, 5th, 3rd, and 2nd in the same tests, showing a generally better performance.

In conclusion, while both tyres show great strengths in dry and wet handling, braking distances, and fuel efficiency, the Michelin Primacy 4+ pulls ahead in tests, courtesy of its excellent performance properties, superb mileage, and low exterior noise. The Kumho Ecsta HS52, on the other hand, stands out as an economical option, providing balanced performance at a competitive price.