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Last updated 5/31/2024 - Originally published 5/31/2024
Written by SimpleTire
UHP summer tires are designed to offer drivers ultra-high performance in warm conditions and are good for use in temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit. The two popular UHP summer tires that will be compared here are Kumho Ecsta PS31 and Nitto Invo. Both tires have roughly the same tread depths. However, the tread patterns are slightly different, with the Ecsta PS31 getting a directional tread and the Invo receiving an asymmetrical tread. You can expect strong wet braking on the Ecsta PS31, along with low road noise, high-speed stability, and long tread life. While Kumho tires are from South Korea, Nitto tires are manufactured in Japan.
Kumho Ecsta PS31 tires
Some of the top reasons for a buyer to purchase a UHP summer tire are great stability and braking performance, and the Kumho Ecsta PS31 does not disappoint. It features a 3D dimple design for larger slip angles that enhance high-speed performance and durability on these tires. Available with a V-speed rating, the Kumho Ecsta PS31 was found suitable for an average Simplescore of 8.6. It uses a unique rubber compound for enhanced traction and can brake within short distances. There are suitable grooves to help this tire fight irregular wear. Additionally, it sports a reinforced internal construction, that utilizes a two-ply polyester casing below twin, wide steel belts.
Nitto Invo tires
For excellent performance and traction in the warmer months, selecting a suitable UHP-summer tire like Nitto Invo is important. Nitto makes good-looking tires for enthusiasts with more rubber on the roads, resulting in better traction and performance. You can expect a good mix of strong performance and a comfortable ride here as the luxury performance tire gets a Y-speed rating. It showcases a solid inner rib for better handling and cornering performance. Variations in the sizes and positions and sizes of repeating tread blocks decrease noise for a quiet ride and a combination of multi-wave sipes and high tread depth prevents uneven wear. Based on the features mentioned above, this tire is eligible for an average SimpleScore of 8.4.
Kumho Ecsta PS31 vs. Nitto Invo tires on traction
The use of a special compound on this tire leads to great dry and wet traction. There are wide grooves on the Ecsta PS31's tread channel that facilitate rapid water removal for optimal hydroplaning resistance and excellent wet traction. This tire is strong and is ideal for use on the Lexus IS250. We think you'll agree with our average traction SimpleScore of 8.6 when you take the IS250 on both short and long drives, with the symmetrical tread pattern ensuring good grip and a silent ride.
In comparison to the above, the Nitto Invo features 3D multi-wave sipes that improve traction on wet roads. The high amount of rubber in contact with the road also aids grip, with two large tread grooves preventing hydroplaning and generating wet traction by removing water quickly. We found the Invo to be suitable for an average traction SimpleScore of 8.7.
ADVANTAGE: Nitto Invo
Kumho Ecsta PS31 vs. Nitto Invo tires on handling
The V-rated Kumho Ecsta PS31 is slightly slower than the Nitto Invo. Its tread depth is marginally lower than the Invo and is meant for sedans, muscle cars, and sports coupes. A 3D dimple design is responsible for better high-speed durability. The Ecsta PA31 features a solid, center rib for better braking on wet roads. As per the above features, this tire is suitable for an average handling SimpleScore of 8.6.
On the other hand, Nitto Invo drivers will feel themselves to be more connected to the road during hard braking and acceleration due to a solid inner rib. Unlike the Ecsta PA31 which features a V-speed rating, the Invo is quicker with a speed rating of Y. Additionally, there’s a large rubber contact patch here that ensures improved cornering and dry performance. This tire, with an average handling SimpleScore of 8.9, is beneficial for a car like the Chevrolet Impala.
ADVANTAGE: Nitto Invo
Kumho Ecsta PS31 vs. Nitto Invo tires on longevity
A 3D dimple design on the Kumho Ecsta PA31 is responsible for high durability and wide lateral grooves can fight irregular wear. Both tires have high tread depths that ensure longer tread life. As per its features, the Ecsta PA31 is good enough for an average longevity SimpleScore of 8.4. In comparison, the Nitto Invo gets a combination of multi-wave sipes and high tread depth to decrease uneven wear. Repeating tread blocks decrease noise, and the tire is good enough for an average longevity SimpleScore of 7.8.
ADVANTAGE: Kumho Ecsta PA31
When to use each
Both, the Ecsta PA31 and the Invo are designed for use in warmer weather conditions, in temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Whether dry or wet roads, these tires can perform well and deliver a high-speed driving experience with greater control and commanding steering response. It is recommended not to use in winter weather conditions (light, moderate, or severe).
Which one should you choose?
The Nitto Invo outscores the Kumho Ecsta PA31 on all parameters except longevity. However, the prices for the Ecsta PA31 begin from $78.99 per tire ($315.96 for 4). In contrast, you can buy the Invo at prices as low as $160 per tire ($640 for 4). Here are the reasons to choose the Kumho Ecsta PA31:
- You want the cheaper tire
- You want longer tread life
- You want great dry and wet handling
On the other hand, you can use the following guidelines to purchase Nitto Invo:
- You want better traction
- You want a tire for staggered-size applications
- You want better braking performance
Still not sure which tire to buy? Fortunately, SimpleTire is here to help, and our helpful agents are more than happy to assist you in selecting the right tire for your ride and budget.