Deciding which brand you should pick between Sumitomo, Michelin, and Toyo is challenging because each is a good option for various reasons. Luckily, this article has the detailed specs and analysis that you need. Also, the question about which one is the best among these three brands will be revealed.
Our list which looks at market research and consumer reviews will give you the most detailed, up-to-date specifications and reviews on these three brands.
Sumitomo vs. Michelin vs. Toyo: Comparison Table
Before you begin diving in the specific specifications of these tire brands, the comparison table is an excellent starting place. Here we have conclude the information from our research into bit-sized pieces for quick reference:
| SUMITOMO | MICHELIN | TOYO | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origin | Japan | France | USA |
| Price | Mide-range | Expensive | Cheapest |
| Performance | Limited overall performance | Best overall performance | Better off-road performance |
| Durability | Least durable and wear out quicker than the five year average of the other two brands | Best overall durability for heavy load and day to day driving | Good durability but will wear more with heavier loads |
| Tire Variety | Limited winter and off-road tires | Most variety | Wide variety |
| Warranty and Customer service | Good + 1-Year road hazard protection + 2-year roadside protection + 30-day free trial | Best + 3-year roadside protection + 60-day free trial | Great + 5-year limited warranty |
Sumitomo vs. Michelin vs. Toyo: Detailed Analysis
The tire industry is a tricky place because there are so many options. Overall, tire quality is essential. However, it would be best if you considered each category individually and rated them on your specific needs.
The following detailed specs provide the side-by-side comparison of the most critical parts of Sumitomo, Michelin, and Toyo tire brands. Each of our sections includes the categories organized and summarized in the chart above.
Origin
Specifically, Sumitomo is an ancient company from Japan. Founded in the 1600s, Sumitomo tire company has a lot of experience. Meanwhile, Michelin is a French company with a lot of wisdom and market name recognition built up over the years. Founded in 1889, Michelin has a long reputation for quality. Finally, Toyo tires were launched in Japan in the 1940s but moved to the United States for manufacturing.
Price
The price of your tires is always an essential part of any consumer’s equation. The tires that cost the most on this list are the Michelin tires and the upper-grade Toyo tires. Both companies produce very high-end tires that cost upwards of $400 per unit. However, Toyo also makes the cheapest tire on this list with an economy model at around $50 per unit. Finally, Sumitomo is middle of the road with tires that have average price. None of the Sumitomo tires are less than $70 or more than $300.
Performance
The performance of your tires could mean the difference between a rough ride and a smooth trip. Also, performance adds safety and dependability to your handling.
Toyo tires have knobby tread designs and excellent choices for mud, dirt, and gravel roads if you are an off-roading enthusiast. Michelin also offers some excellent off-road options, but their alternating tread designs and radial rubber strength give them the best overall handling and performance in all weather conditions. Sumitomo tires have limited performance ability in snow and ice with only one winter tire option.
Durability
A tire that lasts longer is a better value for your money. If your tires constantly wear out, they are more dangerous and less predictable for handling and performance.
The durability of Michelin is legendary and the best of all of these tires. Most people won’t change their Michelin tires for ten years. Toyo is also very dependable and durable in all road conditions. However, Toyo rubber burns up faster with heavier loads. Sumitomo tires are not very stable in rougher road conditions. They are a decent tire for the cost of everyday driving and will last averagely about five years and longer with timely rotations.
Tire Variety
When searching for a tire, consumers are often interested in variety and options. Michelin offers a wide range of choices for each rating of tires, from economy and base-level tires to the heavy tread of winter weather-rated tires.
Toyo is also a strong contender with Michelin with many different types of tires. However, Toyo can’t compete with the mid-range and all-season options that Micheline delivers. Finally, Sumitomo does not offer many kinds of tires for passenger cars or trucks. Although they have some variety, there is only one winter weather tire and only a couple of different tires for all seasons.
Warranty And Customer Service
Michelin is known for its speedy and on-point customer service. Their three-year coverage and roadside assistance is an industry leader and the best on this list. They also offer 60 days as a trial period for all tires, which is better than those on this list.
Toyo and Sumitomo are similar in their warranties. Sumitomo offers some fantastic deals on economy tires, with one allowing for a 70,000 treadwear miles warranty. Toyo also offers a five-year limited warranty. However, this limited warranty is only worth it if your tires fit within the 25% use range, which is highly unlikely.
Sumitomo vs. Michelin vs. Toyo: Which Tire Brand Wins This Face-off?
In the end, Michelin is the best overall tire brand on this list as it outperforms the other two in many different aspects. However, the better economic option for price is probably the Sumitomo tire, which has incredible deals. About the treadwear warranties, it also offers a 30-day trial period for all tires, which may not be as good as Michelin. However, it is still lovely peace of mind.
Conclusion
Choosing between these three tire brands of Sumitomo, Michelin, and Toyo now becomes easier. We hope that our information and attention to detail helps you make the intelligent and informed decision that makes the most sense for you. Enjoy your new tires, and always drive safe!
