The Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3 significantly enhances ride comfort compared to stock Dunlop Sport Maxx TT tires, smoothing out road imperfections with minimal compromise on steering feel. Exceptional grip in both wet and dry conditions ensures confident handling, even under demanding driving situations. Testing revealed no issues with ABS activation or loss of traction, demonstrating the tire’s reliable performance. Aquaplaning resistance is comparable to other wide tires.
However, a notable drawback is accelerated tire wear. Front tires wore down to 2mm after only 19,000 miles on a 2.2d front-wheel-drive vehicle. Despite the wear, grip remained consistent. Initial noise levels were lower than the previous tires, but road noise increased over time. It’s unclear whether this is attributable to the tire or the vehicle itself, as a similar droning noise was observed on a previous vehicle after switching to the Ventus V12 Evo2.
For comparison, Michelin PS4 tires, previously used on an A3 S Line Saloon, lasted approximately 30,000 miles on the front axle and cost only slightly more. The Michelin PS4s will be tested next to assess their performance and longevity in comparison to the Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3. This long-term evaluation will provide valuable insights for drivers seeking a balance between performance, comfort, and tire life.
