The winter non-studded tire Kumho I Zen KW23 is addressed by one of the largest South Korean tire manufacturers to the majority of owners of small and medium-sized passenger cars. The tire is produced in more than forty of the most popular sizes from 13 to 17 inches, which ensures its applicability to most models of modern passenger cars.
In its creation, South Korean tire engineers applied a number of interesting design solutions. In particular, a V-shaped design of the symmetrical tread pattern was used. This simple solution is highly effective in winter conditions and has given the tire a number of advantages. Firstly, it was possible to ensure a larger contact patch area, which improved traction. Secondly, the V-shaped construction of the tread elements allowed for the placement of a longitudinal rib in the central part of the tread, the rigid structure of which contributes to improved directional stability, reduced rolling resistance, and reduced reaction time of the tire in response to steering wheel rotation.
Another distinctive feature of the Kumho I Zen KW23 tire can be considered the use of special 3D-lamellas, which allowed compensating for the absence of steel studs when driving on icy roads, while also increasing the level of comfort due to a radical reduction in noise and vibration levels.
The rubber compound of the Kumho KW23 tire was composed taking into account the specifics of operation in low-temperature conditions. For this purpose, silicon-containing components were included in the rubber compound, which gave the tire excellent elasticity at low temperatures, improved traction on slippery surfaces, and significantly increased the tire's resistance to wear.
Main features of the Kumho I Zen KW23 tire
- Excellent traction and handling characteristics due to the V-shaped design of the symmetrical directional tread pattern;
- High silica content in the tread rubber compound ensured the tire's excellent elasticity at low temperatures, improved traction on slippery surfaces, and increased wear resistance;
- Multiple 3D-lamellas allow for more confident movement on icy surfaces.
Enlarge 
Enlarge