Daventry, UK – 25 June 2026 – Premium tyre manufacturer Hankook has been commended in the Summer Tyre category in the Auto Express Product Awards 2026 for its flagship ultra-high-performance summer tyre, the Ventus evo.
The Auto Express Product Awards recognise the standout performers from the publication's extensive vehicle and product testing conducted throughout the previous year. The Summer Tyre commendation derives from Auto Express's in-depth summer tyre test, originally published in the 13 August 2025 issue of the magazine, which compared nine leading summer tyre brands in the popular 225/40 R18 size. The Product Awards were subsequently published in Auto Express's 15 April 2026 issue.
The comprehensive test programme evaluated evaluated tyres across a range of real-world and controlled conditions. Wet-weather assessments measured braking, cornering, handling balance and resistance to aquaplaning, while dry-weather testing focused on braking, steering response, grip, stability and overall handling performance. Additional evaluations included rolling resistance, tyre noise, ride comfort and a subjective road assessment covering steering feel, ride quality and performance on varied road surfaces.
The Hankook Ventus evo secured an impressive third-place overall finish in the summer tyre test, delivering particularly strong results in wet conditions. As the latest generation of Hankook's flagship ultra-high-performance summer tyre, the Ventus evo has been engineered to provide exceptional grip, precise handling and outstanding wet-weather performance. Designed for premium and performance vehicles, it combines advanced tread technology with enhanced durability and efficiency to deliver confidence, comfort and control across a wide range of driving conditions.
“Independent third-party testing is a valuable endorsement of our engineering standards, confirming that our products provide the quality, performance, and long-term reliability expected in real-world conditions.” commented Ho Seok Chea, Managing Director of Hankook Tyre UK.
In announcing the commendation, Auto Express stated: “The Ventus evo earned a well-deserved third place overall, shining in the wet tests. It was within a metre of the best in braking and was superb on the handling circuit...” (Auto Express, 15/04/26).
The commendation further strengthens Hankook's position as a leading manufacturer, highlighting the Ventus evo’s strong balance of safety, handling and overall value.
