Sumitomo HTR Z Tire Review & Rating

The HTR Z from Sumitomo is built to deliver high performance traction and cornering grip for drivers of sport coupes and sedans. As a summer tire it is not made for driving in cold weather or in winter conditions.

A high performance tread compound and directional tread pattern utilize a continuous center rib and large angled shoulder blocks to increase dry traction and steering response. The tire grips the road well and feels stable in the corners on dry and wet pavement.

Four circumferential grooves that are deeper and wider enhance wet handling by channeling away water and enhancing hydroplane resistance. We talk more on how well this tire stands up to wet road surfaces in our comments below.

Inside the tire you will find two steel belts that use Sumitomo’s Jointless NylonBand technology for added strength and durability throughout the speed range. A polyester cord body provides increased ride comfort and stability.

Pros

• Excellent dry traction and stability
• Tires ride provide a surprisingly comfortable ride
• One of the lowest priced tires in this class

Cons

• Softer sidewall negatively affects cornering performance on heavier vehicles
• Not for winter weather at all

Overall Thoughts

This appears to be one of those tires you either love or hate. For us, we really like them for what they are… a cheaper high performance tire that is fun to drive on. The price on these tires is among the lowest you’ll find anywhere for this class. Seriously, a 315/35ZR17 for under $170? You would easily pay 2 times that with a bigger name brand.

Performance is very good on dry pavement under this tire. It provides good overall stability and corners well. The softer sidewall does affect cornering with heavier vehicles, so keep that in mind. Traction on wet pavement is adequate, but don’t expect the kind of performance you would get on a more expensive Michelin or Continental model. Also, forget about driving on this tire when the weather turns cold and winter sets in.

Treadwear is what we would expect from a lower priced model like this. It wears a little quicker when you are constantly on the throttle. Overall, if you are on a tighter budget or simply don’t want to sink $1000 or more into a set of premium high performance tires, then the HTR Z’s are an excellent option.

What Vehicles Will The HTR Z Fit?

Fits these vehicles and many others:

• BMW 330i, M3, 745Li, 530i
• Chevrolet Corvette, Camaro, Cobalt
• Dodge Neon
• Ford Mustang GT
• Honda Civic, Accord
• Hyundai Tiburon GT
• Infiniti G35
• Lexus IS300
• Mazda3, Miata, RX-7, Mazda6
• Mercedes-Benz E55, CLK430, E320
• Nissan 30ZX, Altima, Sentra, Maxima
• Pontiac GTO, Firebird Trans Am, Grand Prix
• Subaru Legacy, Impreza L, Impreza WRX
• Suzuki SX4
• Toyota Tercel, Supra
• Volkswagen Jetta, Golf R32, Passat, Rabbit

Tire Sizes

17″

245/45ZR17 95W BW
P275/40ZR17 BW
P315/35ZR17 BW

Price Range

Prices on the HTR Z range from approximately $113 and up. You may also find occasional rebates, discounts, coupons and special offers on this tire.

Warranty

Sumitomo provides a limited tread warranty on the HTRZ. Tire uniformity is guaranteed for the first 1/32 inch of wear. Materials and workmanship and warranted for 6-years and include free replacement during those 6 years or down to the final 2/32 inch of tread depth.

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