I need to replace my originals on my MCS. Anyone have any experience with Kumho Ecsta SPT XRP's? I've seen them on TireRack, but haven't heard of them before. Thanks.
Summer tire comparison test from Car and Driver. Khumo Ecstas ( the XS version) were tested and placed 3rd overall of 9, but "In the wet, however, the Kumhos were nothing short of diabolical...". Not sure how the XS compares with the ones you're considering, but worth a check.
The Kumho XS is a very high performance summer only tire that is the darling of the autocross crowd. Very little void area to let water out so in standing water or heavy rain it is a problem child. I can speak from personal experience with this tire. It ain't pretty in a downpour.
If your desire is for track time it's a winner in price versus performance. For a daily driver on the street I would steer away from the XS.
The XRP is also a summer only tire but appears to have a better void area layout for allowing water out of the footprint. It would work better than the XS and I was considering it for replacements on my MINI too. Just trying to make the decision if I really need the extra cost of run flats or not.
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2007 MCS Laser Blue 2010, 2008 BMW Oktoberfest Autocross - Stock Mini First Place
2009 BMW Oktoberfest Autocross - Stock Mini Second Place BMW CCA Driving Instructor/Engine Mechanic/Speech Recognition Specialist