Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 vs Kumho Ecsta PS31 vs Toyo Proxes Sport

When it comes to choosing high-performance summer tires, the Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2, Kumho Ecsta PS31, and Toyo Proxes Sport are popular options that often catch the eye of driving enthusiasts. Each tire brings its own strengths to the table, but which one is the best fit for your needs? 

In this comparison, we’ll break down their performance, features, and test results to help you make an informed decision.

Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2

The Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 is a well-regarded ultra-high-performance summer tire designed for sporty sedans and coupes. Manufactured in South Korea, it’s known for balancing grip, comfort, and durability, making it a favorite among drivers seeking a versatile option.

Kumho Ecsta PS31

The Kumho Ecsta PS31 is another UHP summer tyre, offering an affordable yet capable choice for performance-oriented drivers. It’s praised for its value and solid handling, though it’s often seen as an entry-level option in the ultra-high-performance category.

Toyo Proxes Sport

The Toyo Proxes Sport, made in Japan, is an ultra-high-performance summer tire built for drivers who crave precision and agility. It’s designed to deliver excellent wet and dry performance, appealing to those with sporty cars or crossovers who prioritize responsiveness.

Performance Comparison

Dry Performance

• Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2: Excels in dry conditions with strong grip and precise steering response, thanks to its advanced silica compound and asymmetric tread pattern. It’s a solid performer for spirited driving.
• Kumho Ecsta PS31: Offers decent dry handling and stability, though it doesn’t match the sharpness of premium competitors. Its tread design ensures reliable traction for everyday use.
• Toyo Proxes Sport: Stands out with exceptional dry grip and cornering ability, leveraging its high-stiffness construction. It’s a top pick for aggressive driving on dry roads.

Wet Performance

• Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2: Performs admirably in the wet, with excellent braking and resistance to aquaplaning due to its wide circumferential grooves and optimized tread.
• Kumho Ecsta PS31: Holds its own in wet conditions, offering good aquaplaning resistance and balanced handling, though it may lack the finesse of higher-end tires.
• Toyo Proxes Sport: Shines in wet scenarios with superior traction and braking, aided by its dynamic taper design and advanced compound, making it a standout for rainy days.

Noise and Comfort

• Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2: Strikes a good balance between performance and comfort, with moderate road noise that’s acceptable for a UHP tire.
• Kumho Ecsta PS31: Tends to be noisier than its rivals, which can detract from comfort on longer drives, though it remains tolerable for budget-conscious buyers.
• Toyo Proxes Sport: Offers a quieter ride compared to the Kumho, with a focus on refinement that enhances comfort without sacrificing performance.

Wear and Durability

• Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2: Provides decent mileage for a UHP tire, though it may wear faster under aggressive driving conditions.
• Kumho Ecsta PS31: Known for reasonable tread life, making it a cost-effective option, though it’s not as long-lasting as some premium alternatives.
• Toyo Proxes Sport: Offers competitive durability, with a tread compound designed to withstand high-performance use while maintaining longevity.

Key Features and Specifications

• Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2: Features an asymmetric tread pattern, cooling fins for heat dissipation, and a high-grip silica compound. Often chosen as original equipment (OE) for performance vehicles.
• Kumho Ecsta PS31: Boasts a directional tread design, 3D dimple technology for heat management, and a focus on affordability without compromising core performance.
• Toyo Proxes Sport: Equipped with a high-stiffness shoulder, nano balance technology, and a tread pattern optimized for wet and dry grip.

Test Results and Ratings

While specific test data varies by source, here’s a general synthesis based on available tire comparisons:

• Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2: Frequently scores high (e.g., 80-85% in reviews) for its all-around performance, especially in wet braking and handling.
• Kumho Ecsta PS31: Typically rated around 75-80%, praised for value and wet performance but critiqued for noise and dry precision.
• Toyo Proxes Sport: Often achieves 80-85% ratings, excelling in wet grip and dry cornering, with strong marks for overall balance.

Price and Value

• Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2: Mid-range pricing, offering a strong blend of performance and quality for the cost.
• Kumho Ecsta PS31: Budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing savings without sacrificing too much capability.
• Toyo Proxes Sport: Priced competitively with premium UHP tires, delivering excellent value for performance-focused drivers.

Head-to-Head Performance Comparison

1. Dry Performance: Precision Meets Power

Analysis:

• The Toyo Proxes Sport edges out slightly in dry conditions, leveraging its high-stiffness tread design and silica-rich compound for superior traction and responsive handling.
• The Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 offers excellent precision with its optimized block stiffness and multi-radius tread, performing strongly in cornering and responsiveness.
• The Kumho Ecsta PS31, while solid for an affordable performance tire, lags slightly due to softer sidewalls, which compromise steering sharpness.

2. Wet Performance: Safety in the Rain

Analysis:

• The Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 excels in wet conditions, due to its AquaATM technology and wide circumferential grooves.
• The Toyo Proxes Sport performs admirably with its dynamic taper design and deep grooves, offering strong wet grip.
• The Kumho Ecsta PS31 holds its own with a balanced tread pattern for water dispersion.

3. Comfort & Noise

Analysis:

• The Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 leads in comfort and noise suppression, utilizing Noise-Vibration-Harshness (NVH) technology and a refined tread pattern for a smooth, quiet ride.
• The Kumho Ecsta PS31 offers decent comfort for its price point but generates slightly more road noise, especially as it wears.
• The Toyo Proxes Sport prioritizes performance over-refinement, resulting in a firmer ride and higher noise levels.

4. Tread Life & Value

Analysis:

• The Kumho Ecsta PS31 shines in tread life and value, with a durable compound that appeals to budget-conscious drivers seeking longevity.
• The Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 balances performance and wear reasonably well, though its focus on grip slightly reduces its lifespan.
• The Toyo Proxes Sport sacrifices some tread life for its aggressive performance focus, but its loyal fanbase appreciates the trade-off.

5. Technology & Innovation

Analysis:

• The Toyo Proxes Sport incorporates modern advancements like its dynamic taper and barrel-shaped grooves, enhancing grip and water evacuation.
• The Kumho Ecsta PS31 uses 3D dimple technology to reduce heat buildup and improve durability, a practical innovation for its price range.
• The Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 relies on proven AquaATM tech for wet performance, but its older design lacks the cutting-edge updates of its competitors.

Consumer Surveys For Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 vs Kumho Ecsta PS31 vs Toyo Proxes Sport

Verdict: Which Tire Should You Choose?

• Choose Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 if: You want a well-rounded tire with strong wet and dry performance, plus a touch of comfort for daily driving. It’s ideal for drivers seeking reliability and versatility.
• Choose Kumho Ecsta PS31 if: You’re on a budget but still want decent UHP performance, especially in wet conditions. It’s perfect for casual enthusiasts who don’t push their tires to the limit.
• Choose Toyo Proxes Sport if: You prioritize precision, grip, and responsiveness, particularly in wet and dry performance driving. It’s the go-to for sporty drivers who demand the best.

Ultimately, your choice depends on your driving style, budget, and priorities. The Hankook offers the best all-around package, the Kumho wins on value, and the Toyo takes the crown for pure performance.

FAQs

Which tyre offers the best performance among Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2, Kumho Ecsta PS31, and Toyo Proxes Sport?

The Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 provides excellent handling and wet grip, the Kumho Ecsta PS31 is a great budget-friendly option for spirited driving, and the Toyo Proxes Sport excels in dry and wet traction for high-performance vehicles.

Which tyre is best for wet conditions?

The Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 and Toyo Proxes Sport offer superior wet grip due to their advanced tread design and silica-infused compounds. The Kumho Ecsta PS31 performs well but may not match the premium grip of the other two.

Which tyre is more durable?

The Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 tends to have better longevity due to its reinforced construction, while the Toyo Proxes Sport is performance-focused, which may reduce its lifespan slightly. The Kumho Ecsta PS31 is designed for affordability, making it a decent mid-range choice.