Has anyone here had any experience with Nokian (from Ivalo, Finland) Hakkapelitta Winter SUV Tires? 275/40R20 XL 106T (design B) T rated for speed up to 118mph. "World's Safest Winter Tire"
Features:
Full Depth Locking Sipes/Angled Tread -creates 1000's of sharp, biting edges for enhanced traction and safety
Arrowhead Tread Directional - expels water and mud effectively while providing outstanding lateral grip
12 Row Patented Eco Stud System - better grip and responsiveness on polished ice while giving smoother quieter ride
Jointless Nylon Belt - helps prevent tread separations while providing a smooth comfortable ride

My dealership is recommending these over the Pir. Ice and Snow, and they say that I will get several seasons out of these vs. the Pirelli Scorpion Ice and Snow.

Thoughts? Comments?

 

Never heard of them, but am curious if you've had experience with the Dunlop GrandTrek recommended by Porsche.
With a T rating I am hesitant with how they will handle when pushed in a cornering situation.
I wonder what PCNA would say about your dealer reommending a non-N rated tire.

 

Are there any "N" rated 20" winter tires out there anyhow? I was told (by the same dealer rep) that PCNA will be N rating these tires, doesn't mean much now since this is not official.

 

I had Nokian's on my old Mercedes, they are AWESOME! As far as the 20" ones, I have not had any first hand encounters with them. But if they were anything like mine on my old car, I couldn't have been anymore satisfied!

-Jimbo

 

Good to hear the positive feedback. I wil put in my final order tomorrow

 

I decided to go with the AW Plus2, which are V rated and non-studded, because I too am a little hesitant with T rated tires (since I do travel in excess of 118mph on the open expressway, dry or wet, frequently!)

http://www.nokiantyres.com/

 

I've never tested or seen that Nokian model, but I get people who call and ask for them all of the time. Most of the ones that do have driven them before and won't buy anything else. I'd love to try a set out.

 

Good to hear! Let me know how you like them!

-Jimbo

 

Nokian are aamzing in the snow. But their dry performance is really lacking. First time I put them on my BMW years ago I practically understeered right off the road while attempting to apex a curve in an agresive manner which I can do with Dunlop Wintersports easily. That being said, the Nokian are amazing in the snow.

 

Not good to hear this.
Did your Dunlops have a higher speed rating?

Were they the WR (all weather with the severe weather ratings and V speed rating) or the Hakkas pure winter tires with a T speed rating? Just curious.

THX