Comparison: Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 vs. Kumho Ecsta HS52 vs. Bridgestone Turanza T005

The Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 and the Kumho Ecsta HS52 are both prime examples of touring, summer tyres. Created respectively by Pirelli and Kumho, they have established their reputation through a combination of drivability, safety, and longevity.

The Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2, successor to the much coveted Pirelli P7 Cinturato, ranks high with an impressive 89% rating in our tests. However, it seems to falter in some areas according to various test results. A test carried out by Autoklub ČR found the tyre placing 4th out of 19, whereas it occupied a less commendable 17th spot out of 50 in ADAC's test. The test summary from TyreReviews.com in 2023 pointed out the tyre's strength on dry surfaces but criticized its performance on wet roads. It has since been superseded by a newer model, the Pirelli Cinturato (C3).

The Kumho Ecsta HS52, the follow up model to Kumho Ecsta HS51, has been rewarded with a decent 73% rating in our tests. Though it doesn't enjoy an overwhelming edge in comparison tests like Autoklub ČR where it ranks 13 out of 19, it nevertheless outperforms the Pirelli option in ADAC's test by settling in the 8th spot out of 50. According to the 2023 TyreReviews.com summary, the tyre is balanced and good on both dry and wet surfaces, but it shows weaknesses in its environmental footprint and efficiency.

To summarize, both tyres have their strengths and weaknesses, with Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 slightly taking the edge in our tests and the Kumho Ecsta HS52 showing potential for improvement. The shortcomings in performance of the Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 in some areas are mitigated by its sonorous strengths in others, while the Kumho Ecsta HS52 remains a respectable contender with reliable all-around performance. It is important to note that test results can vary based on different conditions, hence the potential buyers should choose in line with their driving conditions and personal preferences. Check out their pages for more information here for Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 and here for Kumho Ecsta HS52.