Kumho Launches New Ecsta AST, Road Venture MT Tyres

(Akron/Tire Review) At the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Kumho Tire USA Inc introduced its new Ecsta AST high performance, all-season tyre as well as its new Road Venture MT, reportedly the widest and tallest light truck tyre the company has ever offered.

The Ecsta AST tyre, designed for sports cars and tuned sedans, according to Kumho, features a directional tread design with dual-angle cross grooves and asymmetrical lateral grooves for cornering grip, hydroplaning resistance and wet traction.

A new tread compound in the tyre incorporates a high-grip top compound and a firm lower compound for stability and resistance to heat and wear, Kumho said. The tyre also features a rim protector and a new belt cord construction that helps reduce damage from cuts and punctures, according to the tyremaker.

The Ecsta AST features a UTQG traction rating of AA and a treadwear rating of 420 and will be available in 17 sizes, from 195/50R15 to 215/35R18.

The second tyre Kumho introduced, the Road Venture MT, features an “advanced tread compound” that resists cuts, chips and abrasions. The tyre is designed to showcase the aggressive features of an off-road tyre yet offer the low-profile look of a performance street tire, Kumho said.

The Road Venture MT tyre’s directional tread and shoulder lugs provide forward bite, and “aggressive side claws extend the tread at low pressures,” according to Kumho. In addition, low-void centre lugs improve wear and handling, reduce noise and enhance wet and snow performance, Kumho said.

The Road Venture MT is available in the following nine sizes: 31×10.50R15, 33×12.50R15, 35×12.50R18, 38×15.50R18, 37×13.50R20, 38×15.50R20, 37×13.50R22, 38×14.00R24 and 37×14.00R24.