What are the original tires for the Kia Sportage?
2 Answers
The Sportage originally comes with Kumho tires, model SOLUS KR21, which are economical and durable passenger car tires. The tire performance is relatively balanced and is marked with M+S, meaning mud and snow. Tire Introduction: Tires are rubber products, so even if not used, they will naturally age. Before using stock tires, it is necessary to check for cracks and rubber aging. Tire Storage Method: If stored in a suitable environment with constant temperature and away from light, the aging process of the rubber will slow down significantly. Using them after a few years is not a problem. If stored in a place with direct sunlight and large temperature variations, the rubber will age and crack. Even if unused, such tires are not suitable for use as the rubber loses its elasticity and cannot provide the necessary grip.
I remember the original tires for the Sportage mainly use brands like Hankook and Kumho, with specific models depending on the vehicle year. For example, the 2017 model commonly uses Hankook Dynapro HP2 in 225/60 R17 size, which is quite wear-resistant but a bit noisy. My own Sportage ran for 60,000 kilometers before needing tire replacement. It felt decent in terms of grip on highways, though you need to slow down when cornering in the rain. I recommend new owners check the tire production date upon delivery—the four-digit code on the sidewall, like 2123, means the tire was produced in the 21st week of 2023. If the tires are too old from storage, it's advisable to negotiate with the dealership for a replacement.
