Who Makes Sumitomo Tires – how Reliable are Sumitomo Brand?
Sumitomo has a reputation for combining quality and value wisely to maintain a perfect balance. Sumitomo Tires is a subsidiary and prominent export company of the Japanese Sumitomo Group Corporation.
All Sumitomo Tires aresolely manufactured by the Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI) Ltd. one of the most globally successful and major tire producers.
The following article will discuss all the aspects of Sumitomo tires that one should be aware of before making the final purchase decision.
Who Makes Sumitomo Tires – About Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI)
The 5th largest tire producer andone of the leading Japanese tire manufacturers and a subsidiary of the Sumitomo Group.
Originally, Dunlop U.K established and started producing the first Japanese-made automobile tire during 1909-13.
However, as soon as the investment ratio exceeded 50%, Sumitomo Group acquired the Sumitomo Rubber company in September 1963 and changed the company name.
Eventually, in early 1983, Sumitomo Group bought Dunlop US and U.K. companies remaining shares.
In early 1995, Sumitomo began manufacturing golf balls along with tire production.
Between 1995 and 2013, Sumitomo expanded the tire manufacturing and distribution channel by founding several other Rubber and tire manufacturing subsidiaries.
Sumitomo has 75 overseas subsidiaries, and its manufacturing facilities are available in the USA, Indonesia, Japan, Thailand, China, Brazil, Turkey, North America, South Africa, and Europe.
Currently, Sumitomo Rubber industries manufacture tires for passenger cars, coupes, trucks, buses, motorcycles, and other vehicles.
Besides making tires for the Sumitomo Tire brand, this Japanese manufacturing company also makes tires for other famous brands like Falken Tire, Ohtsu Tire, and Dunlop Tire.
Where Does the Production of Sumitomo Tires Take Place?
Sumitomo Rubber Industries claim to have several factories or manufacturing facilities available in China, Japan, Europe, and the United States.
However, the cheaper Sumitomo tires are manufactured from its Chinese production units and those widely popular high-end models mostly come from its Europe and USA manufacturing units.
Why Is Sumitomo Considered A Good Brand? (Can Sumitomo Tires Fulfil Your Driving Needs)
Here are the top 5 reasons why you should consider Sumitomo tires_
#1- 4D Nano Design Technology:
Sumitomo has developed and incorporated 4D Nano Design Technology into its manufactured Tires.
This particular technology has earned praise from most consumers, critics, and technical & automotive experts.
Because it can reduce carbon emissions as well as enhance fuel efficiency and grip during rides.
#2- Ensures Ultimate Comfort:
Sumitomo pays keen attention to developing balanced mechanisms and advanced technology to minimize the typical discomfort riders can experience.
Even consumers have claimed that they did not witness any irritating loud noise or felt any pain after riding their vehicle constantly for a longer period.
Sumitomo tires make the journey less noisy and stressful to ensure ultimate comfort.
#3- Stable Traction, Optimum Grip & Control:
All Sumitomo tires feature innovative shoulder block designs and sturdy tread pattern structures, which deliver better traction during turning.
These tires feature wide grooves within their tread. These internal grooves clear water and help drivers fight hydroplaning or irregular wear.
Also, deliver optimum grip and control to drive smoothly on wet, dry, wintry, or icy roads.
Even these tires’ stable traction let them perform excellently in all possible weather conditions.
#4- Affordable & Usable for All-seasons:
Besides offering such high-quality features, most Sumitomo tires are extremely affordable and budget-friendly.
Also, Sumitomo does not produce tires to deal with one particular season. Instead, it offers all seasons tires so that one can choose a tire based on their driving needs.
#5- Durability & Reliability:
Even though these tires are fairly cheaper than most premium high-end tires, Sumitomo offers a maximum 90000-mile lifespan on some tire models.
Also, most Sumitomo tire models have above 500 Treadwear and A Traction scores based on the UTQG test reports.
Sumitomo also offers an average 60K to 70K miles warranty with its tires which have extended up to 90K miles for some high-rated models.
Are Sumitomo Tires Good Compared To Cooper & Hankook Tire Brands?
Sumitomo undoubtedly offers some excellent tires.
But if you compare the overall design, features, and quality with other high-end brands like the Cooper and Hankook Tires, Sumitomo tires cannot beat them.
Cooper tires mean excellent quality tires at a budget-friendly rate and they even last longer than many premium brand tires.
Most Cooper tires have gained 4.0 out of 5.0-star ratings from customers and automotive critics. Cooper also won the title of the Most Affordable tire brand in 2021.
Another best budget-friendly alternative is Hankook tires because this brand always offers high-quality products at super affordable prices with long-term warranties.
Even though Hankook tires are not premium type, they can still become the best alternative solution when you cannot afford a Michelin model.
Are Sumitomo Tires Reliable? How Long Do They Last?
Yes, these tires are reliable enough and according to the DrivingPress.com website’s several simulation test results, Sumitomo tires have excellent resistance quality.
Reportedly, the average lifespan of most Sumitomo tires is approximately 55,000 to 60,000 miles, but they also have an endurance of reaching 80,000 up to 90,000 miles when one takes their tire’s required regular maintenance accordingly.
Most Sumitomo tires that are currently available in the market can at least last 60,000 up to 70,000 miles without any major issues.
3 most widely popular and available Sumitomo tires
- Studable-Winter Radial Tire:
A sturdy yet stable structure specially designed with extreme grip and equipped with the most intuitive indicators to control wear.
Most suitable for passenger cars and coupes to drive in severe winter or icy conditions, but maintains great performance on wet and dry both roads.
- Encounter HT:
The most stable choice from Sumitomo’s all-season lineup to keep your light truck steady on various surfaces.
No extra hassle in acceleration or chances of dragging heavy objects while driving. Also, exceptionally quiet during rides to ensure the most comfort.
- Enhance LX2 All-Season Radial Tire:
An all-season tire specially designed for Crossovers or CUVs and SUVs that offers enhanced handling and braking performance on both wet and dry roads.
Also, have an average 65,000-mile limited manufacturer tread-life warranty.
Good & Downsides of Sumitomo Tires:
Let’s have a look at the pros and cons of Sumitomo tires here:
Pros:
- Affordable for all types of consumers and offers a long-lasting tread life warranty.
- Sumitomo winter special tires ensure great traction, stability & control during severe winter climates.
- Excellent high-performance all-season tires are available.
Cons:
- Tire variety is limited compared to other prominent brands.
- Solid but not the best compared to other high-end Tire brands.
- Some of the tire models lack balance and are too loud.
How Much Does It Cost to Buy Sumitomo Tires?
Here’s an approximate price list of some popular Sumitomo Tire models_
| Model Name | Price Ranges Per Tire |
|---|---|
| Studable-Winter Radial Tire | $84.97 to $217.96 |
| Enhance LX2 | $76.95 to $149.97 |
| Encounter HT | $106.97 to $240.97 |
| Enhance CX2 | $116.97 to $235.98 |
| Encounter AT | $127.96 to $450.99 |
What Do You Need to Consider In Choosing These Tires?
Remember to note these following tips and keep them in mind_
- Overall design patterns & finishing:
Check the entire design patterns and finishing of the materials before purchasing so that the tire won’t have any assembly or manufacturing errors.
- Warranty & After-sale Service policy:
Always make sure that you are purchasing tires from any authorized source and check the brand’s warranty and after-sale service policy.
- Tire size & fittings:
Ensure that the chosen tire’s size and fittings match your vehicle perfectly.
Are There Any Good Sumitomo Tires Alternatives?
Sumitomo specialized in balancing quality with cost to bring high-performance reliable tires at affordable prices.
But if you do not have any budget limitations, you can opt for better alternatives such as Bridgestone, Michelin, Yokohama, or Kumho Tires.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Does Goodyear own the Sumitomo Tire brand?
No. Even though Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company collaborated with Sumitomo in 1999, Goodyear terminated the alliance in early 2014.
Are Sumitomo Tires Loud?
No, these tires are mainly known for being quiet and peaceful during rides, but there are a few exceptional models available at cheap rates.
Who Owns Sumitomo Tires?
Solely owned by the Japanese leading corporation Sumitomo Group.
Sumitomo Series: How Long Can Tires Last >> Check out the video below:
Ending Thoughts
Sumitomo is a widely famous global tire brand, and multiple Sumitomo tires are trending in Asian consumer markets.
Even Sumitomo is a trustable name in the tire industry for combining the perfect balance of quality and price.
However, keep in mind that cheaper pricing equals relatively compromised quality. This brand does not even have the most diverse tire lineup in stock. So, do not rush and take your decision wisely.
Resources:
https://www.srigroup.co.jp/english/
http://www.tbcbrands.com/tire-brands/sumitomo/
https://sumitomorubber-usa.com/
Certification: BSc in Mechanical Engineering
Education: Mechanical engineer
Lives In: 539 W Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75208, USA
Rasel is an auto mechanic student and writer with over half a decade of experience in the automotive field. He has worked with top automotive brands such as Lexus, Quantum, and also owns two automotive blogs autocarneed.com and taxiwiz.com.