Kumho Tyre’s new WinterCraft WP52+ has finished on the podium in Auto Bild’s 2025 winter tyre finals, underlining balanced performance in the key 225/40 R18 size used by compact performance cars. Independent coverage of the German magazine’s results places the Kumho third overall, with testers noting confident behaviour on snow and competitive wet braking — a combination that matters for European fleet and retail buyers.
Auto Bild’s methodology narrows a 51-tyre field to 20 finalists via wet and snow braking before full dynamic testing. In that final, Michelin’s Pilot Alpin 5 took overall honours, while the Kumho WinterCraft WP52+ earned “price–performance” recognition and a podium finish. Data published by Tyre Reviews shows the Kumho near the front in wet braking and snow handling, with respectable aquaplaning and exterior noise scores, a well-rounded showing for a recently introduced pattern.
The 225/40 R18 dimension spans popular hot hatch and fast compact fitments. Strong wet-road metrics are especially relevant in a British winter dominated by rain rather than deep snow. Auto Bild’s write-up also singled out the WP52+ as a positive surprise in this year’s cohort, reinforcing its suitability for everyday use in mixed conditions.
Kumho positions the WP52+ as a European winter tyre with a snow-optimised tread and compound, and with EV-ready sizing including high load capacity options. Independent tests showed snow handling near the front and competitive wet stopping distances; projected wear placed it in the mid-pack. For fleets balancing safety, comfort and lifecycle cost, that mix will be watched closely as winter demand builds.
Kumho is ramping its presence in Europe, from visibility partnerships to capacity planning. Tyre News recently reported the company’s plan for a first European plant by 2027 to support premium original equipment (OE) growth, and separate coverage highlighted new sports partnerships that lift brand recognition in key markets.
“Earning recognition in the Auto Bild test is a clear testament to Kumho’s technological excellence and quality, which are now fully recognised in the European market,” said Tony Gangseung Lee, Head of the European Sales Division. “We will accelerate our expansion in the European premium winter tyre market and redouble our efforts to become a premium brand in global markets.”
Auto Bild’s finals typically award several “Exemplary/vorbildlich” ratings alongside an overall winner. While external summaries identify the WP52+ as third overall and a value standout, the broader message is consistent across European testing this season: premium-leaning winter tyres continue to separate themselves on wet safety and projected mileage, areas that drive procurement decisions.
Auto Bild has already set out its 2025 finalists after braking qualifiers, with full evaluations now underway across wet, dry and snow disciplines, an approach that continues to influence retail choice and fleet policy. Readers can also revisit Tyre News’ explainer on how Auto Bild’s large-field methodology shapes winter recommendations.
Tagged with: Auto Bild winter tyre test, Kumho WinterCraft WP52+, 225/40 R18, wet braking, snow handling, EV-ready tyres, European winter tyres, fleet tyre decision-making, value performance, tyre testing 2025
Disclaimer: This content may include forward-looking statements. Views expressed are not verified or endorsed by Tyre News Media.
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