Encounter HT2

About the Sumitomo Encounter HT2

All-Season Highway-Terrain Passenger Light Truck, SUV and CUV tire.

Features

* Wide circumferential grooves* Wave-shaped lateral sipes* Block pattern design* Smooth, curved shoulder grooves* Reinforced bead apex* Full-width jointless nylon overlay plies* M+S Rated* 60,000 Mile/100,000 km Treadwear Warranty on all sizes* 2-year, 24/7 Roadside Assistance* 1-Year Road Hazard Protection Plan* Free 30-Day Test Drive* Free Lifetime Replacement for Workmanship and Material Defects

Benefits

* Channel water away from the tread for enhanced grip and hydroplaning resistance* Deliver remarkable braking power for quicker stops on wet roads* Provides improved dry handling and stability in every season* Reduce road noise and vibration for a quiet, comfortable ride* For cornering strength and high-speed stability

Understanding the 275/65R18 size

In the size code 275/65R18, 275 is the section width in millimetres (about 10.8"). 65 is the aspect ratio — the sidewall height is 65% of the width, or roughly 178.8 mm. R18 means radial construction on a 18-inch wheel, giving an approximate overall diameter of 32.1".

The load index 116 means each tire supports up to 2,756 lbs — about 11,024 lbs across a full set of four. The speed symbol T certifies the tire to 118 mph under its rated load. Always match or exceed the load index and speed rating listed on your vehicle's door-jamb placard.

Tread life and grip ratings

This tire carries a UTQG rating of 640 A B. The treadwear grade of 640 is a relative durability score — a grade of 200 is expected to last roughly twice as long as a grade of 100 under the same controlled test. Traction grade A measures straight-line wet stopping grip (AA is highest, then A, B and C). Temperature grade B reflects heat resistance at sustained speed (A is highest).

Price and value

At $173.24 per tire, a full set of four costs $692.96. That is about 18% below the average price of the 185 tires we stock in this size. Backed by a 60,000-mile treadwear warranty, that works out to roughly $11.55 per 1,000 miles across the set.