When it comes to choosing the perfect tires for your vehicle, the options can be overwhelming.
That’s why I decided to dive deep into the world of tires, comparing two renowned brands, Sumitomo and Yokohama.
In this post, I’ll explore their fascinating histories, examine their performances on dry, wet, and snowy roads, investigate their mileage warranties and average lifespan, analyze their prices, and ultimately determine which brand reigns supreme.
So buckle up and join me on this thrilling Sumitomo vs Yokohama tire showdown!
Sumitomo vs Yokohama – Comparison Table
| Sumitomo | Yokohama | |
| Country of Origin | Japan | Japan |
| Year Founded | 1909 | 1917 |
| Made In | Japan and the United States | Salem, VA, West Point, MS, or Tokyo, Japan |
| Parent | Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd. (Japan) | Furukawa Group (Japan) |
About the Brands
1. Sumitomo
Sumitomo, a renowned tire brand, has a rich history that began in 1909 in Japan.
Founded by Sumitomo Rubber Industries, the company has become a global leader in the tire industry.
With over a century of expertise, Sumitomo has established a reputation for producing high-quality and reliable tires for various vehicles.
Over the years, Sumitomo has continuously evolved its tire manufacturing techniques, incorporating cutting-edge technology and innovative designs.
This commitment to innovation has allowed Sumitomo to offer a wide range of tire options suitable for diverse road conditions and vehicle types.
As a Japanese brand, Sumitomo has embraced the country’s ethos of precision engineering and meticulous attention to detail.
This commitment to excellence has earned the brand a loyal customer base worldwide.
Today, Sumitomo tires are known for their durability, performance, and excellent traction, providing drivers with a safe and comfortable driving experience.
With its longstanding history and affiliation with Sumitomo Rubber Industries, the Sumitomo brand remains a trusted choice for drivers seeking superior tires that combine Japanese craftsmanship, innovation, and reliability.
Mostly Known for Manufacturing Tires For:
- Passenger cars
- SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles)
- Light trucks
- Medium trucks
- High-performance and racing vehicles
- Motorcycles
- Agricultural applications
- Commercial vehicles
2. Yokohama
Yokohama is a renowned tire brand with a rich history that dates back to 1917.
Founded in Japan in a joint venture between Yokohama Cable Manufacturing and B.F. Goodrich, Yokohama tires have become synonymous with quality and performance.
The brand is now a subsidiary of the Furukawa Group.
Over the years, Yokohama has established itself as a global leader in the tire industry, offering a wide range of products for various vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs.
With a focus on cutting-edge technology and tire engineering, Yokohama has consistently delivered high-performance tires that provide excellent traction, durability, and fuel efficiency.
The brand’s commitment to quality and innovation has earned it a loyal customer base worldwide, making Yokohama a trusted choice for drivers seeking reliable and high-performing tires.
Mostly Known for Manufacturing Tires For:
- Passenger cars
- Performance cars
- SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles)
- Mini vans
- Crossovers
- Trucks
- Vans
- High-performance vehicles
- Commercial vehicles
- Tractors
- Bicycles
Differences
1. Dry Performance
I’m going to compare the performance of two summer tires as they are the ideal type in dry weather.
I’m taking a look at the Sumitomo HTR Z5 vs the Yokohama Advan Sport V105.
In my evaluation, as the one assigning dry performance ratings from 1 to 5, I rate the Sumitomo HTR Z5 with a score of 4.4.
This tire exhibits remarkable dry handling, focusing on maximum performance in summer conditions.
The inclusion of wide circumferential grooves enhances its dry traction, resulting in exceptional grip, stability, and control.
Similarly, the Yokohama Advan Sport V105 achieves a dry performance rating of 4.8.
With superior handling, wider tread blocks for enhanced dry performance, maximum grip, and positive customer reviews, it caters to those desiring precise and confident driving experiences.
Consequently, both tires offer commendable dry performance, resulting in a tie.
2. Wet Performance
For the wet performance, I’ll be comparing the Sumitomo HTR A/S P02 vs the Yokohama Avid Ascend GT.
In my opinion, after considering the research, the Yokohama Avid Ascend GT tire appears to have a slight edge in terms of wet performance with a rating of 4.6 out of 5.
This tire demonstrates excellent hydroplaning resistance and stable handling on wet roads due to its TriBLEND compound technology.
However, the Sumitomo HTR A/S P02 also performs well in wet conditions, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5.
Overall, both tires offer commendable wet performance, making it a tie between the two.
3. Snow Performance
We all know that you need dedicated winter tires if you’re going to be driving on harsh winter conditions.
That’s why I’ll be comparing the snow performance of two specialized winter tires – Sumitomo Ice Edge vs Yokohama iceGUARD iG52c.
In my research, I have given a snow performance rating of 4.5 out of 5 to both the Sumitomo Ice Edge and Yokohama iceGUARD iG52c tires.
These ratings suggest that both tires offer reliable snow performance, backed by advanced technology, excellent traction, and good overall snow performance.
The Sumitomo Ice Edge has the advantage of a studdable option and a cold-weather compound, while the Yokohama iceGUARD iG52c boasts features like an extra-wide center rib, large control blocks, slush grooves, deep treads, and optimal traction.
Considering their similar snow performance levels, I would declare a tie between the two tires.
4. Mileage Warranty and Tread Life
| Sumitomo | Yokohama | |
| Treadwear Warranty | up to 90,000 miles tread life warranty | up to 80,000 miles tread life warranty |
| Average Tread Life | Overall, Sumitomo tires are known to have a relatively high lifespan, with most models lasting between 55,000 to 70,000 miles. | Yokohama tires can last anywhere between 50,000 to 85,000 miles. |
Based on my research, the Sumitomo tires offer a higher mileage warranty compared to Yokohama tires.
Sumitomo provides a treadwear warranty of up to 90,000 miles, while Yokohama offers up to 80,000 miles.
Additionally, on average, Sumitomo tires tend to last between 55,000 to 70,000 miles, whereas Yokohama tires can last anywhere between 50,000 to 85,000 miles.
Overall, Sumitomo tires have a reputation for a relatively high lifespan, making them a reliable choice for long-lasting performance on the road.
5. Prices
In this section, I’ll be taking a look at the price ranges of both tire brands – Sumitomo vs Yokohama.
I’ll be using one of the biggest tire and wheel retailers in the US for this comparison – Discount Tire.
Here is a comprehensive table that showcases each brand has to offer:
| Sumitomo | Yokohama | |
| Average Price Range (Discount Tire) | $84 to $475 /ea | $68 to $805 /ea |
| Cheapest Tire (Discount Tire) | HTR Enhance LX2 goes from $84 – $162 /ea | Iceguard IG53 goes from $68 – $197 /ea |
| Most Expensive Tire (Discount Tire) | Encounter AT goes from $146 – $475 /ea | Advan Sport goes from $255 – $805 /ea |
6. Pros and Cons
Sumitomo
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ Generally considered to have good performance, including grip, handling, and braking | ❌ None |
| ✔ Sumitomo tires are known for their affordable prices | |
| ✔ Widely available |
Yokohama
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ Reasonable pricing, offering good value for their cost | ❌ None |
| ✔ Excellent traction, particularly in dry conditions | |
| ✔ Stable and safe handling |
7. Popular Tires
Here are some notable tires from Sumitomo:
- HTR A/S P02
- HTR Enhance L/X
- HTR Z5
Some of Yokohama’s best tires are shown below:
- Advan Apex V601
- Avid Ascend GT
- Geolandar A/T G015
Which Is the Better Brand Overall?
After carefully considering the key factors, I declare the Yokohama tire brand as the better pick overall.
While both brands offer commendable dry and wet performance, Yokohama’s Advan Sport V105 receives a slightly higher rating for dry performance.
Additionally, the Yokohama Avid Ascend GT tire edges out the Sumitomo HTR A/S P02 in terms of wet performance.
Both brands perform equally well in snow conditions.
However, Yokohama’s reasonable pricing, excellent traction, and stable handling make it the winner in this comparison.
