Hankook Tires Review - Brand Guide

‍About Hankook Tires

Launched in 1941, Hankook is one of the newest tire manufacturers in the industry.

Since then, it has grown to become one of the leading tire manufacturers, especially for budget shoppers.

Its headquarters are in Seoul, South Korea. However, it also has operations in Nashville, Tennessee, which help it to serve its North American market better.

Hankook mostly makes replacement tires for passenger cars, SUVs, CUVs, and light trucks.

Its tires are also installed as OE for several performance vehicles from car brands like Honda, Porsche, Toyota and Hyundai.

Hankook is renowned for its affordable, and high-quality tires, which are available in a wide range of sizes.

Most Popular Hankook Tires

Hankook produces a wide range of tires, available in different types and sizes. Its tires can fit several types of trucks, sedans, and SUVs.

It also makes high-performance tires for sports coupes, performance sedans and other performance vehicles. Some of its most popular tires include:

Dynapro AT2

Hankook is renowned for making high-quality tires, which are affordable for most people.

But over the last couple of years, it has launched a couple of premium tires, designed to compete with those from premium brands like Bridgestone, Continental and Michelin.

And the Dynapro AT2 is one such tire. Released to replace the Dynapro ATM, this all-terrain tire is designed for drivers of jeeps, CUVS, SUVs, and 4x4 trucks.

When it comes to all-terrain tires, drivers want a tire that can deliver safe on-road driving, decent off-road performance, as well as a quiet and comfortable ride.

So, does the Dynapro AT2 perform according to these expectations? Let’s take a closer look.

Performance on Dry Roads

When compared to other all-terrain tires in its category, the Dynapro AT2 competes favorably when it comes to dry performance.

Its traction is outstanding and its cornering grip is up there with the best all-terrain tires in the market.

Having driven with this tire for several miles on the highway, I can confidently say that its stability was impressive all through.

I also noticed that its steering remained responsive all through, even when I was cruising at highway speeds.

However, its straight-line tracking was not as impressive as I expected. I had to make a few adjustments with the steering wheel when I was driving, to ensure the wheels remained in line.

Performance on Wet and Slippery Roads

Considering the Dynapro AT2 is an all-terrain tire, buyers expect this tire to supply reliable traction and grip in wet and slippery conditions.

Fortunately, it doesn’t disappoint. Its traction in wet conditions is dependable, meaning you are assured of safe driving all through.

Its outstanding performance in wet conditions can be attributed to the high-dispersible silica, which has been infused into its tread.

This high-dispersible silica compound helps to enhance the tire’s traction and grip in rainy conditions.

Hankook has also outfitted this tire with wide grooves and open shoulders, which channel water away from its surface, thus helping to reduce hydroplaning resistance.

And this translates to better overall traction in wet and slippery conditions.

Performance on Snowy Roads

Hankook has equipped this tire with numerous multi-directional grooves as well as plenty of waved sipes on its tread, which increase its biting edges.

And these two features work together to boost its traction and grip in snowy conditions.

It also features the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol (3PMSF), meaning its performance in snow and ice is better compared to all-terrain tires with just the M+S marking.

As much as the Dynapro AT2 is not a winter tire, its performance in snowy conditions remained satisfactory throughout my test.

Its handling in snowy conditions was also decent and its braking distances remained short.

As long as you don’t intend to use this tire in heavy wintry conditions, its overall performance in snow and ice will be more than adequate.

Off-Road Performance

While its off-road performance may not be as impressive as that of the premium all-terrain tires from BF Goodrich, it will be satisfactory for most drivers.

Its traction and grip on hard-packed surfaces are great. You can also use it to drive through muddy terrains.

However, it’s important to mention that you shouldn’t expect a premium, off-road performance from this tire.

It’s not a designated off-road tire, meaning its only designed for casual or occasional off-roading.

Ride Quality

One of the areas where this tire tends to lag behind its competitors is the ride quality. As much as it's not overly uncomfortable, you will notice some vibrations and road noise.

However, these issues are common with most of the all-terrain tires you will find in the market today.

Should You Buy the Dynapro AT2?

The Dynapro AT2 does exactly what it’s engineered to do. It will help you to navigate almost all types of terrains and weather conditions.

So, if you are looking for a reasonably priced yet capable all-season and all-terrain tire, then the Dynapro AT2 will be an ideal choice.

Ventus V12 Evo2

Hankook is mostly popular for all-season, all-terrain and touring tires.

So, if you ask someone to recommend a high-performance tire, there is a high chance they won’t mention Hankook.

However, it recently released a high-performance tire known as the Ventus V12 Evo2, meant for performance enthusiasts.

This summer performance tire is designed for sports coupes, performance cars, high-performance sedans and other performance-oriented vehicles.

But does the Hankook Ventus V12 Evo2 deliver according to expectations? Well, I recently took this tire and here are some of the observations that I made.

Dry Performance

Compared to the previous model, the Ventus V12 Evo2 performance in dry conditions is nothing short of outstanding.

Its handling is precise and responsive while its cornering grip even at high speeds is excellent.

However, I should mention that it lacks the finesse that you will find in premium tires, especially when you are driving on the track.

Overall, its performance on dry roads will be adequate for most drivers, especially when you consider its affordable price.

But if you are planning to hit the track, then this tire may not be the ideal choice. It will struggle compared to the other high-performance tires from premium brands.

Wet Performance

Despite the Hankook Ventus V12 Evo2 being a summer tire, I was amazed by how well it handled wet conditions.

Its hydroplaning resistance is impressive. Also, it offers adequate traction and grip in wet conditions.

And this is thanks to the special lateral and circumferential grooves, which work together to channel water away from its surface.

Hankook has also equipped this tire with a hi-tech rubber, featuring a higher level of silica. This helps to improve its traction in wet conditions further.

If you live in an area that rains frequently, then you shouldn’t have any problem with your driving, as long as you have a set of these tires.

Performance in Snowy Conditions

The Hankook Ventus V12 Evo2 is a summer tire. As you may expect, its performance in snowy conditions or ice-covered roads will be poor.

Therefore, you are not guaranteed a safe driving experience, if you use this tire in such conditions.

So, if your area experiences extended winters or heavy snowing, then it will be highly advisable to use dedicated winter tires, for your own safety.

It will also be advisable to replace this tire with dedicated winter or snow tires, once the colder months set in.

Ride Quality

The Ventus V12 Evo2 is one of the most comfortable high-performance tires that I have used.

It suppresses noise well even when you are cruising at high speeds, thanks to its wing-tip design and the use of Hankook’s Stealth Technology.

Also, you will not experience any vibrations in the cabin, even when you encounter rough surfaces.

I must say I was impressed with how comfortable and refined this tire is. If you are looking for a high-performance tire that will deliver a smooth, quiet and comfortable ride, then the Ventus V12 Evo2 comes recommended.

Should You Buy the Ventus V12 Evo2?

With the Hankook Ventus V12 Evo2, you are getting a high-quality tire, which will deliver adequate traction and grip in dry and wet conditions.

It also handles with precision and its steering responsiveness is impressive. I also loved its excellent braking capabilities.

And when you throw in its comfortable, quiet and refined ride, you may not get a better high-performance tire at this price range.

The only issue you may experience with this tire is its shorter tread life. And this may be expected for a high-performance tire.

Hankook Optimo H724

The Optimo H724 is one of Hankook’s most popular all-season touring tires.

It’s designed for drivers of coupes, small crossovers, minivans, family sedans and light-duty trucks, who are looking for a capable all-season tire without costing too much.

It’s one of the cheapest tires from this brand. But how is its performance? Let’s take a closer look.

Dry Performance

While the Hankook Optimo H724 is not a high-performance tire, its performance on dry roads is impressive.

It delivers adequate grip and traction on dry roads, whether you are driving at slow or high speeds.

However, if you are looking for super-tight handling or excessive amounts of grip when you are moving at break-necking speeds, then this tire may not be the right one for you.

But if you simply need a basic all-season tire for your daily driving needs around the city or on the highway, then the Hankook Optimo H724 will not disappoint you.

Performance in Wet Conditions

I was also impressed with its overall performance in wet conditions. Its grip levels and traction are adequate. However, you will have to maintain moderate speeds.

If you drive too fast with a set of these tires, you may notice some loss of traction as well as poor handling.

But generally, its overall traction, handling and performance in wet conditions will be adequate for your daily driving needs.

Performance in Icy or Snowy Conditions

Its performance in ice-covered roads will be heavily dependent on the conditions that you encounter.

If you encounter light snow, then the traction and grip will be sufficient, thanks to the numerous sipes on its tread.

On the other hand, if you encounter thick layers of snow or extremely slushy conditions, then the traction will not be reliable.

So, if your area experiences heavy snowing or severe wintry conditions, it will be safer and better to install dedicated snow or winter tires.

Ride Quality

Touring tires tend to prioritize a comfortable ride as opposed to sporty driving. And the Hankook Optimo H724 is no exception.

It delivers a quiet ride on the highway and around the city, thanks to its pitch design technology.

Besides delivering a whisper-quiet ride, this tire also rolls over smaller bumps and other road imperfections with ease, resulting in a cozy ride.

Its overall comfort levels are among the reasons why I have continued using a set of these tires on my Chevrolet Impala.

Should You Buy the Hankook Optimo H724?

If you are looking for a budget-friendly all-season touring that will get the job done, then the Hankook Optimo H724 will be more than adequate.

It will deliver top-notch handling, remarkable dry and wet traction, high levels of ride comfort as well as a quiet ride.

Simply put, it will meet all your basic driving needs throughout the year while offering value for money.

Design Features and Technologies

Hankook has continually equipped its tires with various effective features and technologies.

These features and technologies are designed to ensure its tires deliver superior performance in varying terrains and conditions.

Also, these features help to set Hankook tires apart from the competition. Some of the notable features and technologies include:

Hankook Kontrol Technology

Most Hankook tires are equipped with its exclusive Kontrol Technology, featuring 3key elements. These are performance, safety, and comfort.

• Performance: Hankook’s tires are optimized to ensure they deliver the best performance possible in different weather conditions and terrains.
• Safety: Hankook also ensures its tires can provide a safe driving experience, even in harsh weather conditions.
• Comfort: Hankook tires are also designed to minimize road noise, and vibrations, to ensure a refined and comfortable ride.

Virtual Compound Design System

Most tire manufacturers create hundreds of rubber samples every year, which they use to test various tread formulations and combinations.

However, Hankook uses an AI-driven virtual compound design system, which helps to correctly predict the properties present in the different rubber compounds.

And this helps to increase the number of rubber samples they can test, thus saving time.

Ultimately, Hankook is able to deliver superior, safer and long-lasting tires, which offer better value for money to the buyer.

Multiple Tread Radius Technology

Hankook further leverages its Multiple Tread Radius Technology, featuring a silica-based rubber compound, which can adjust to different road conditions.

Thanks to this technology, Hankook is able to produce tires that perform excellently in a wide range of weather conditions, even when you encounter inclement weather.

This technology also helps to improve the tire’s contact patch with the road and reduce its rolling resistance.

And as a result, the tires will deliver superb handling, enhanced steering responsiveness and better fuel efficiency.

Guarantees and Warranties

Hankook tires are designed to provide a safe driving experience, long treadwear life and satisfactory performance.

To this end, Hankook has backed its tires with several warranties and guarantees, offered under the Patron Pledge Plan.

The Patron Pledge Plan features a limited warranty, a mileage warranty, road hazard warranty and a free trial.

Limited Warranty

This warranty is designed to cushion the buyer against loss if a Hankook tire becomes unusable due to a defect outside the buyer’s control.

Under the limited warranty, Hankook promises to replace your tire, if it’s removed from service due to workmanship or materials defects.

Hankook will either replace the tire with a comparable new one or offer replacement credit, depending on when the tire is removed from service.

Free Replacement

If the tire becomes unusable during its first 2/32-inch of its original usable tread or within 12 months from the purchase date, then Hankook will replace it free of charge, with a comparable new one.

The replacement will also cover mounting and balancing charges. However, the owner will be responsible for applicable taxes, disposal fees and other related costs.

Prorated Replacement

If a Hankook tire is removed from service after its first 2/32-inch of the original usable tread or after 12 months from the date of purchase, then the buyer will get a replacement credit.

The replacement credit the buyer gets will depend on the percentage or original usable tread remaining on the tire, at the time when it’s removed from service.

Treadwear Mileage Warranty

Most Hankook tires come with a treadwear mileage warranty, which helps to protect the buyer against premature tread wear.

Some of the Hankook tires that come with a treadwear mileage warranty include the Optimo H727, Optimo H725, Kinergy PT, Optimo H724, Dynapro HT, and Kinergy GT.

Others include the Ventus As, Dynapro HP2, Optimo 426, Ventus H101, Ventus ST, Optimo H431, Optimo H725A, Ventus V2 Concept, and Dynapro HT, among others.

Under this warranty, if an eligible tire wears down uniformly across its entire tread down to its tread wear indicators before it attains the warranted mileage, then it will be replaced.

However, you should note that all tire replacements for this warranty will be done on a prorated basis.

The pro-rated credit the buyer will get will depend on the percentage of the warranted mileage that the tire didn’t deliver, multiplied by the dealer’s selling price for the tire.

Road Hazard Warranty

As previously mentioned, Hankook tires also come with a road hazard warranty. For this warranty, Hankook offers to replace your tire if it’s removed from service due to damage caused by a non-repairable road hazard. Some of the tires that are eligible include:

• Kinergy GT and PT
• Optimo H725, H426 and H727
• Dynapro AT/M and HP2
• Ventus V12 Evo, AS, V4 ES, V2 Concept, and S1 Noble

You will be responsible for mounting, balancing, applicable taxes, disposal fees and other related service charges.

Repairable tires and tires installed as Original Equipment (OE) are not eligible to be replaced under this warranty.

Customer Satisfaction Guarantee

Hankook also backs a select range of tires with a 30-day free trial. This trial is designed to give the buyer time to decide whether to keep the tires or not.

If you feel you are not fully satisfied with the tires, you can simply return them to the place where you bought them. From there, the dealer will handle the rest.

It’s important to note that the 30-day free trial will only apply if you buy a set of 4 to 6 tires. So, if you buy 1, 2 or 3 tires, they will not be eligible for this guarantee.

But as long as you had purchased a set of 4 to 6 tires, you can opt to exchange one or all of them.

Tires that have any form of damage caused by road hazards or improper use, as well as those that have been used in racing-related events will not be accepted.

Cost of Hankook Tires

As mentioned earlier, Hankook is a budget tire brand. And as you may expect, its tires are cheaper than most of the other brands.

Most of its passenger touring tires cost less than $100, which is considerably cheaper, compared to those sold by other brands like Goodyear, Continental or Michelin.

Furthermore, its tires are backed by some of the best treadwear mileage warranties, thus making them even more affordable in the long run.

Hankook Tires Pros

• Affordable, durable and highly reliable tires
• Excellent treadlife warranties

Hankook Tires Cons

• A limited selection of tires for SUVs

Our Take

Hankook produces a wide range of high-quality tires, which feature an impressive blend of durability, performance and affordability. Its tires also come with excellent treadlife warranties, and this partly explains their high customer satisfaction rating. If you are looking for high-quality, durable, affordable and dependable tires, then Hankook may be the right fit for you.