Kumho Tire’s new ultra high performance (UHP) product, the ECSTA Sport, has received a ‘Very Good’ rating in the latest Die Reifentester summer tyre test. The tyre was tested in the 225/40R18 size—one of the most competitive segments on the market and widely used on popular performance cars.
The test saw tyres from eight manufacturers go head-to-head, including well-known names like Continental, Bridgestone, Michelin, and Goodyear. Kumho’s ECSTA Sport impressed enough to share the overall top rating with Continental and Bridgestone.
This marks the first published test result for the ECSTA Sport. It follows on the heels of a strong showing by its predecessor, the ECSTA PS71, in a recent AutoBild test, suggesting continued product strength from the Korean tyre manufacturer.
One of the test’s key highlights was the wet braking results. The ECSTA Sport recorded a stopping distance of just 23.07 metres from 80 km/h, outperforming all other tyres on test. In wet handling, it was one of only two tyres to be rated ‘Very Good’—the other being the Continental SportContact 7.
The ECSTA Sport also delivered strong results in dry conditions. According to Die Reifentester, its dry handling matched that of three premium-brand competitors, also earning a ‘Very Good’ rating.
The ECSTA Sport is designed for drivers looking for precise handling, strong safety features, and good mileage performance. Kumho offers the tyre in sizes ranging from 16 to 22 inches, and it uses a newly developed compound blend that helps shorten braking distances while boosting high-speed stability.
Matthias Bode, Head of Research and Development Europe at Kumho Tire, said:
“We are delighted with this result from Die Reifentester. Kumho ECSTA Sport is designed to offer excellent performance for all motorists, including the most demanding drivers, and this test result is an excellent indication that we are on the right course.”
Tony Gangseung Lee, Head of Europe, added:
“This test result demonstrates the commitment of Kumho to developing and producing exceptional tires which offer excellent value to the driving public. I am delighted to see the team’s hard work being so well rewarded in this independent tire test as we set new performance benchmarks.”
While the tyre market remains fiercely competitive, this result places the ECSTA Sport firmly among the top-performing summer tyres in its size category—an important step for Kumho in gaining traction among performance-focused consumers.
■ What rating did the Kumho ECSTA Sport receive in the 2025 Die Reifentester summer tyre test?
The Kumho ECSTA Sport received a ‘Very Good’ rating, sharing the top position with Continental and Bridgestone in the 225/40R18 summer tyre test conducted by Die Reifentester.
■ Which tyre size was tested in the Die Reifentester summer test?
The test focused on 225/40R18 summer tyres, a highly competitive size commonly fitted to performance vehicles and hot hatches.
■ How did the Kumho ECSTA Sport perform in wet braking tests?
It delivered the shortest wet braking distance, stopping in just 23.07 metres from 80 km/h—beating all other tyres in the test, including premium brands.
■ Is the ECSTA Sport good in wet handling?
Yes, the Kumho ECSTA Sport was one of only two tyres to receive a ‘Very Good’ rating for wet handling, alongside the Continental SportContact 7.
■ How does the ECSTA Sport perform in dry handling?
The tyre earned another ‘Very Good’ rating for dry handling, placing it alongside three premium tyres in this category.
■ Is this the first tyre test result for Kumho ECSTA Sport?
Yes, this is the first published tyre test result for the ECSTA Sport, Kumho’s newest ultra high performance (UHP) tyre model.
■ How does the Kumho ECSTA Sport compare to the ECSTA PS71?
The ECSTA Sport follows the ECSTA PS71, which also performed well in recent AutoBild summer tyre tests. The ECSTA Sport builds on this success with improved wet and dry performance.
■ What tyre technology is used in the Kumho ECSTA Sport?
It features a newly blended compound designed to enhance braking performance, improve driving precision, and ensure high-speed stability. It's available in sizes from 16 to 22 inches.
■ Is the Kumho ECSTA Sport one of the best summer tyres for 2025?
Based on its top-tier performance in the 2025 Die Reifentester summer tyre test, the ECSTA Sport is a strong contender for one of the best 225/40R18 summer tyres currently available.
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