Kumho is very pleased with the ‘exemplary’ rating its Ecsta PS71 gained in the Auto Bild 2025 summer tyre test. It earned the motoring publication’s top rating when evaluated in size 225/40R18, finishing joint fourth from a total of 52 candidates. Auto Bild particularly praised the Ecsta PS71 for its outstanding performance in dry conditions and the best result in the wet.
Commenting on this achievement, Kumho Tyre says the result highlights its “ongoing commitment to delivering high-performance, reliable and cost-effective tyre solutions for drivers worldwide.”
Top wet handling score
Every year, Auto Bild – one of Germany’s most respected automotive publications – tests dozens of summer tyres in a rigorous, two-stage evaluation. For its 2025 test, it whittled down 52 brands to 20 finalists in an initial round that measured wet and dry braking distances. Once in the second, comprehensive round of testing, the Ecsta PS71 stood out in several key areas, particularly excelling in wet performance.
The Kumho product was the sole recipient of the highest possible ‘1’ score in the wet handling category, a feat that for Kumho confirms the tyre’s “superiority in grip and control under challenging conditions.” The testers praised the PS71’s very good aquaplaning resistance, noting that it maintained exceptional stability and control even in the wettest of conditions.
Auto Bild also highlighted handling and braking as standout qualities. The PS71 demonstrated impressive driving dynamics, offering precise and responsive handling with notably short braking distances on both wet and dry surfaces.
Cost efficiency was another area where the PS71 excelled, being one of the best performers in terms of price-to-mileage ratio. It demonstrated long-lasting durability without compromising on performance.
About the PS71
Kumho describes its Ecsta PS71 as an ultra-high-performance (UHP) tyre designed to meet the demands of modern vehicles. Features of particular note include its “advanced tread pattern” that efficiently channels water away to reduce the risk of aquaplaning, as well as a ”specialised tread compound” that enhances grip and braking performance on wet surfaces. Kumho adds that the tyre’s high-speed stability further reinforces its capability, making it suitable for both everyday driving and more dynamic handling situations.
Passing the baton to Ecsta Sport
What makes this test honour more noteworthy is that the PS71 is now about seven years old, and Kumho is now progressively replacing members of the range with the new Ecsta Sport. Even so, the PS71 SUV and PS71 EV will remain in the Kumho portfolio.
“We are delighted with this result; even at the end of the Ecsta PS71 product lifecycle,” says Tony Gangseung Lee, Kumho Tyre’s Head of Europe. “We are confident that our newest product, Ecsta Sport, will live up to the outstanding legacy of Ecsta PS71.”
“Auto Bild’s recognition of the Ecsta PS71’s outstanding performance reflects our commitment to innovation and delivering products that offer both high performance and value for money throughout their lifecycle,” adds Matthias Bode, Head of Research & Development, Europe. “Our focus remains on developing tyre technologies that meet the evolving needs of drivers worldwide.”
