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Can't make a decision: Continental DWS vs Kumho Ecsta

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13K views 12 replies 7 participants last post by  nosaccordh22  
#1 ·
I've been looking at different tires to get for my 2005 Mazda3 and I'm torn between the two:
Continental ExtremeContact DWS or Kumho Ecsta LX Platinum

I have heard great things about the Continental tire, but I've never even heard of the Kumho brand before. Seeing as how they are closely rated, with Kumho tires supposedly lasting longer at the expense of some tread performance, and costing me almost $100 less, I can't make up my mind.

I've had the worst experiences with my current Falken tires (unfortunately decided on them on a whim at the recommendation of a salesperson), so I want to make sure I'm buying a quality tire. Having said that, I'm leaning toward the Continental, but just wanted to know from you guys whether Kumho is known as a reputable brand and worth considering.

Thanks!
 
#3 ·
Well, sorry for the short-lived thread, but I went and picked up the continentals at my local discount-tire (the guy even cut me a deal cause I hated my previous Falkens so much). So far these handle great! And thanks anyway for your input ^ at least now I know the other ones are a brand worth considering next time!
 
#7 ·
how are the side walls? I had a buddy on his S4 just barley hit a pot whole and KILLED his brand new Continental DWS. Also another fellow mazda owner I know also says they have soft side walls and has torn side wall open (yes they did suck at driving and hit a curb but come on!)

Thanks

Frezz
 
#9 ·
[quote author=Red Nation! link=topic=190751.msg4079822#msg4079822 date=1311727059]
Uhh yeah horribe driving!! :yikes: the sidewalls are pretty soft which to me wouldn't be a problem since ma local tire dealer offers free replacement road hazard warranty.
[/quote]

No road side hazard warranty save your time, troubles, and also alignment that they will charge you when your tire is replaced. Road side hazard warranty isn't going to save your car if you crash from a failed tire. Just my thoughts thats all.
 
#11 ·
I just purchased a set of Kumho Ecsta LX Platinums at $91/tire (205/55R16). It's an especially good deal I think because of the excellent treadware and $50 rebate. Pretty good warranty as well. Though I'm not sure how it would work since I bought the tires online from tirerack?
 
#13 ·
I have had great luck with Kumho, although I was using their more extreme tires, (Kumho MX on my 350z twice, and XS on my Mazdaspeed twice). I'm not sure with the more all season tires as what you're looking into but I do like Kumho quality overall.

I've used Conti tires and am not too much of a fan, I'd rather go kumho any day they seem to be a bit cheaper in many shops / online stores.

Conti tires have never offered the grip potential I was looking for in that price range or overall range of tire. (and I've gone through 15 sets of rims on my old Z so I've tried MANY TIRES lol).

if you want a more extreme tire however, something inexpensive but grippy and great on the street, I'd highly recommend either the Kumho XS, or Hankook RS3, which are the newest tires I am currently running.