Kumho Solus KL21 Review

Designed to maximize fuel economy while providing reliable all-season traction the Kumho Solus KL21 is an affordable option that’s incredibly popular amongst automakers.

PROS

  • Fuel efficient
  • Solid all-weather grip
  • Great price

CONS

  • Limited sizes
  • Not terribly sporty

 

Numerous brands trust the Solus KL21 as an original equipment tire on their vehicles. Combined, there are 35 different trim levels of Hyundai and Kia models that run this tire, while it can also be found on larger domestic SUVs like the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

And the real reason for that is this tire’s ability to offer solid all-weather performance, modest handling, a focus on fuel economy, all at a very low price point.

Often factory-equipped tires make numerous sacrifices to deliver on the needs of an automaker, with reduced performance (for instance) in order to deliver better fuel efficiency or comfort. And while that is true here, it’s also understandable for the low price.

The tire makes use of Kumho’s High Dispersible Silica (HDS) tread compound, which enables an impressive balance between low rolling resistance (and therefore good fuel economy) with traction in inclement weather. Aiding in this are four wide circumferential grooves to evacuate water, while added divisions in the tread blocks provide more biting edges on the tire for more grip.

The unique silica compound allows for this wet weather grip and low rolling resistance while at the same time offering a tread compound that’s able to wear slowly. A 60,000 mile tread life warranty comes on the tires, which is a bit low compared to more premium offerings (which are around 65,000-70,000 miles) but again, for the price, it’s actually quite good.

Of note, some versions of the Solus KL21 are particularly fuel-efficiency focused and get branded with an “eco” badge.

The tire’s construction is designed for the added weight of crossovers and SUVs and even make use of a unique internal structure that’s designed to reduce heat buildup int he tire. This heat buildup can, over time, lead to premature tire wear.

A rather thin central rib on the tire with numerous divisions means turn-in response isn’t as immediate as it could be and overall driving dynamics are just so-so. The wide shoulder blocks do hold up well under cornering. It’s not an overly engaging tire to drive, but then it’s not meant to be either.

Delivering on the promise of fuel economy and comfort with decent all-weather performance at a very affordable price point, the Kumo Solus KL21 offers impressive value for today’s utility vehicles.

Kumho Solus KL21 Price

Pricing for the Kumho Solus KL21 ranges from just over $100 for a 17-inch fitment to just under $200 for a 20-inch size.

 

Kumho Solus KL21 Warranty

Kumho backs the Solus KL21 with a 60,000 mile tread life warranty.

A standard limited warranty covers a pro-rated replacement cost for defective tires within the first six years of ownership.

Kumho Solus KL21 Sizes

17-inch sizes
225/60/R17
235/65/R17

18-inch sizes
265/60/R18
235/60/R18
245/65/R18

19-inch sizes
235/55/R19

20-inch sizes
265/50/R20