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Autoexpress Winter tyre test 2022 225/45 R19
Ranked #3 of 6
Securing a respectable third place among six competitors, the Hankook W462 Winter i*cept RS3 made a notable debut. This tyre, newly introduced, managed to outperform other new entries, albeit it couldn't bridge the gap to the top winter performers. Despite its less comfortable performance in severely cold conditions—where it only surpassed one competitor—its excellent handling capabilities shined through. It demonstrated a superior balance that ensured car control was straightforward, attributed to its strong front grip that also enhanced its performance through turns. This balance and ease of control were apparent on wet surfaces as well, where it achieved a commendable handling score, finishing joint second. However, it couldn't consistently deliver top results across all tests. The tyre showed some weaknesses, particularly in curved aquaplaning and braking, falling more than a meter behind the leaders in braking efficiency. Although it claimed the top position in snow handling, it faced challenges in dry conditions with a braking distance three meters longer than the best, impacting its overall performance. Additionally, its fuel economy was hoped to be better, marking an area for improvement. Despite these areas, the Hankook W462 Winter i*cept RS3's debut showcased its potential with a mix of strengths, particularly in balance and handling, setting a solid foundation for future enhancements.
Name |
Points total |
Best values in test | 100 |
Hankook W462 Winter i*cept RS3 | 98.9 |
Source: www.autoexpress.co.uk