Hankook Kinergy GT (H436) vs Cooper ProControl tires

All-season tires are specially designed to provide comfort and perform effectively year-round, offering reliable traction in dry, wet, or light winter weather conditions. Sales of these tires are growing at a robust rate as they eliminate the need for any other type of tire during the year and offer a great mix of comfort and traction. Midfield battles are gradually hotting up and we will be presenting a comparison between Hankook Kinergy GT (H436) and Cooper ProControl here. Each of these tires has been graded as per our proprietary SimpleScore system. Without any further ado, let’s get down to business and understand these tires better.

Hankook Kinergy GT (H436) tires

Hankook is a well-known South Korean tire brand that had first established its local US subsidiary in 1981. Since then, the company has been known for various winter, EV, all-weather, and all-season tire lines. Hankook Kinergy GT (H436) is a reasonably priced all-season tire that offers drivers good durability, confident handling, and a limited manufacturer warranty. There are wide lateral grooves to prevent hydroplaning and the stiff tread blocks ensure long tread life. The optimized pitch sequence and vibration control technology minimize noise and these tires are M+S rated for better snow performance. Based on the above, this tire becomes suitable for an average SimpleScore of 8.5.

Cooper ProControl tires

You can expect all-season tires like the Cooper ProControl to prioritize a smooth and comfortable driving experience while also delivering longer tread life. If you're in the market for a valuable all-season tire that provides most of the necessary features in its segment, this is a great buy. Available with a limited manufacturer warranty, it generates strong traction in both wet and dry conditions. Traction levels are further improved by the special rubber compound in its tread. As an all-season tire, it generates a good grip in snow thanks to the M+S rating. We found the tire suitable for an average SimpleScore of 8.7 as per its features.

Hankook Kinergy GT (H436) vs Cooper ProControl tires on traction

Traction is a very important part of a tire’s capabilities, especially for all-season tires. Remember that these tires have to provide grip in various weather conditions over dry roads, wet surfaces, and even light snowy terrain. The step-wing shoulder design on the Kinergy GT (H436) increases water evacuation and wide lateral grooves in the tread ensure hydroplaning resistance, leading to maximum safety on wet surfaces. The rigid center rib generates high traction and an equalized chamfer sipe provides a good grip on snow. As per the above, the Hankook was found suitable for an average traction score of 8.2.

On the other hand, the Cooper ProControl has a better traction score of 8.3 out of 10. This is possible due to a special asymmetrical tread design and a notched block tread design, along with four circumferential grooves that channel water from the footprint to resist hydroplaning. Tread depths are the same on the two tires but we feel that the asymmetric pattern gives the Cooper tire a slight edge.

ADVANTAGE: Cooper ProControl

Hankook Kinergy GT (H436) vs Cooper ProControl tires on handling

The purpose of an all-season tire is to provide a combination of performance, comfort, and traction in a range of weather conditions across the year. These adaptable tires work on rainy conditions, dry highways, and even light snow. The complex tread pattern and the overall tire design are two of the many elements that contribute to their improved handling characteristics.

Wide lateral grooves in the Hankook’s tread not only improve handling but also enhance braking performance. The rigid center rib plays the same role as the grooves for improving dry handling and performance. While optimized tread block stiffness increases durability and tread uniformity for better mileage, a wide contact area provides stability and precise steering response for a handling score of 8.6.

On the flip side, the Cooper ProControl seems to lag in terms of features, but it eventually scores the same handling SimpleScore of 8.6. It showcases armor steel belt construction, an innovative design, and a silica rubber compound that enhances handling for consistent year-round use. The optimized footprint strategically balances pressure at the contact area to allow great handling.

ADVANTAGE: Tie

Hankook Kinergy GT (H436) vs Cooper ProControl tires on longevity

When buying a tire, longevity is just as crucial as handling and traction. The quality of the tire, driving patterns, road conditions, and maintenance are some of the variables that affect how long a tire lasts. A longevity SimpleScore is indicative of the tire’s tread life and it depends on factors such as limited manufacturer tread life warranty, internal construction, treadwear due to sipes, quality of rubber compound, and more.

Hankook offers buyers of the Kinergy GT (H436) a limited manufacturer treadwear warranty of 70,000 miles. The stiff tread blocks of the tire increase strength and durability for a higher tread life and the wider contact area leads to uniform wear. Tread uniformity leads to higher mileage on the Hankook tire, resulting in fewer stops at the gas station. We found the Kinergy GT (H436) to be good enough for an excellent longevity score of 9.0.

Conversely, the ProControl manages to score a phenomenal 9.5 here, yet again beating the Hankook in terms of longevity SimpleScores. While its reinforced construction adds strength, the innovative tread design results in a quiet, comfortable ride and also ensures even wear to extend the tire's life Much like the Hankook, it also offers buyers a limited manufacturer tread life warranty of 70,000 miles.

ADVANTAGE: Cooper ProControl

When to use each

All-season tires are convenient and versatile, but they often last longer than winter or summer tires that are tailor-made for specific weather conditions. The above is possible due to the tread compound used in their construction, which balances handling, traction, and longevity in all seasons.

Remember that neither of the tires is capable of surviving in severe winter weather. If you experience 6-7 months of moderate to heavy snowfall; it would be wiser to switch to specialized winter tires. However, if you live in a place that receives little snow, all-season tires are a great option. The tread and general integrity of the Hankook and Cooper tires mentioned here can also be maintained by driving carefully and avoiding continuous drives on rough terrain.

Which one should you choose?

So, which all-season tire is the right option for you? If we take a decision based on SimpleScore, the Hankook Kinergy GT (H436) comes out slightly behind the Cooper ProControl with an overall score of 8.5 versus 8.7. However, you may have noticed that the Hankook tire has many features and enters a tie with respect to Cooper for handling. It is most important to remember why the tire is being bought and check the characteristics accordingly. Finally, don’t forget to look at the prices of the two tires.

Here’s what we found: Hankook Kinergy GT (H436) starts from $77 per tire ($308 for 4) but Cooper ProControl costs at least $130 per tire ($520 for 4). Based on the above, here’s what we conclude:

You should buy the Hankook Kinergy GT (H436) if:

• You want the cheaper tire
• You want comfort over long distances
• Drive an Acura ILX, an Audi A6, a Buick Verano, or a Chrysler PT Cruiser
• You want better mileage while enjoying spirited performances

Conversely, you should choose the Cooper ProControl if you:

• Drive a Honda Accord, Kia Soul, Lexus ES, Nissan Astra, or a Fiat Strada
• You want better traction
• You want longer tread life
• You want an American product

Still not sure which tire to buy? Fortunately, SimpleTire is here to help as our helpful agents are more than happy to assist you in selecting the right tire for your ride and budget.