A test drive of Yokohama Rubber's new SUV-specific winter tire, IceGuard 8 SUV, confirmed improved grip on ice and snow. Braking distance and cornering performance in a Harrier were compared with the G075.
A road test of Yokohama Rubber's newly launched SUV-specific winter tire, IceGuard 8 SUV, confirmed that it retains the IceGuard line's ice and snow performance, comparable to the IceGuard 8 for passenger cars, while offering the robust construction needed for heavy SUVs. The test vehicle was a Toyota Harrier fitted with 225/65R17 tires, and the test surfaces consisted of an ice sheet and packed snow.
In a comparison of ice braking performance with the G075, the IceGuard 8 SUV recorded a stopping distance of 12.6m, better than the G075's average of 15.2m. It also showed an advantage in traction when pulling away and in its grip on the road surface. When cornering, the tires gave a strong sense of gripping the ice over a broad contact area, creating the impression of a wider range of control.
On snowy surfaces, steering effectiveness and responsiveness were high, and stability on the snow-handling course was also good. In addition to the test-drive Harrier, the IceGuard 8 SUV showed ice and snow performance close to that of the passenger-car IceGuard 8 on other vehicle models as well, providing reassuring handling in heavy EVs and SUVs. Overall, the tire's high-load design and traction were favorably assessed.
In conclusion, although designed specifically for SUVs, the IceGuard 8 SUV is expected to offer ice and snow performance approaching that of the IceGuard 8, together with strong traction on snow-covered roads. As a test-drive report, the article provides detailed coverage of braking, starting and cornering behavior on ice and packed snow.