I have finally pulled off the 235/45-17 Yokohama A520s and put on a new set of 245/45-17 Kumho Ecsta 712's. The Kumho are a huge improvement in the straight line. I can actually hold traction almost all the way to full throttle in 1st. I get just a little when spin on top and none in second. I am now looking forward to racing a WRX off the line. They are a huge improvement in straight line stability and I can hold traction better powering out of corners. They have a decent ride, but are definitely not cushy. They are quieter than the A520s, but not quiet. Ride is also a huge improvement. There is a down side though, corning. They have a much softer turn-in than the A520s. The car doesn't feel as stable in a corner. I can feel both ends shifting around more than I would like. Last, despite the extra width they don't have as much lateral grip. All in all, I am pretty pleased with the new rubber.

 

Loren,

What made you decide on Kumho 712's instead of Potenza RE730's? Practically every review I've read about them said they're grippier, less likely to hydroplane, and cheaper than all the competition. BTW, I have the 730's and I wouldn't trade them if someone *gave* me a new set of different tires, for fear that I might lose some of the traction/cornering ability!

Justin

 

Yokohama AVS dB GREAT tires...
Bridgestone Potenza RE730s... almost bought them
Kumho ECSTA Supra 712s... budget with great performance...

 

I know 12 people with Kumhos and not a single complaint. If they didn't cost twice as much, I would have bought G-Force T/A Kd's.