Comparison: Toyo Proxes Comfort vs. Kumho Ecsta HS52

Let's delve into a close comparison between two summer touring tyres: Toyo Proxes Comfort and Kumho Ecsta HS52. Whereas these tyres are manufactured by Toyo and Kumho respectively, both of them are lauded for their performance on dry and wet surfaces, albeit with a few differences.

The Toyo Proxes Comfort, manufactured in Japan, is a quality tyre offering excellent dry handling and braking performance as noted in its best features from the Autobild test. This is further acknowledged in the autobild 2024 summary where it was applauded for its dynamic handling both on wet and dry surfaces, as well as its low rolling noise. However, the tyre fell short in the area of lifespan.

Contrarily, the Kumho Ecsta HS52, a successor of the Kumho Ecsta HS51, outperforms in multiple aspects. It ranks high in the Autobild test, securing the third position out of 51 tyres, demonstrating great prowess in dry and wet braking, handling, and offering great value for its price. The ADAC test also solidified its place as a top contender, placing it in the eighth position. It was particularly praised for its impressive performance on both wet and dry surfaces, as well as its affordable price tag. Nevertheless, the tyre suffered from mediocre comfort in rolling and a delayed steering response.

The verdict: Both tyres display strengths and weaknesses, but the Kumho Ecsta HS52 edges out, according to our rating system, with 78% compared to the Toyo Proxes Comfort at 66%. This reflects a more balanced performance in terms of handling and braking on different surfaces—dry or wet—combined with more value for its price. Therefore, if you're targeting a tyre with a solid track-record of satisfaction in various aspects, the Kumho Ecsta HS52 should be high on your list. However, if noise reduction and braking on dry surfaces are your principal concerns, then the Toyo Proxes Comfort would be a plausible alternative.