Hankook Kinergy ST H735 Review

If you’re shopping for a dependable all-season touring tire, chances are the Hankook Kinergy ST H735 has already appeared on your shortlist. It’s often recommended as a value-focused alternative to premium touring tires, promising a quiet ride, long tread life, and solid year-round performance for everyday driving.

But how does it actually perform once it’s mounted on a real car and driven day after day?

This Hankook Kinergy ST H735 review goes beyond marketing claims. It’s written for drivers who want to understand whether this tire truly fits their needs—covering ride comfort, wet and dry traction, noise levels, treadwear expectations, fuel efficiency, and comparisons with key competitors.

What this review includes (and how I compiled it)

This is a comprehensive, research-driven review that combines:

• Manufacturer specs & claims from Hankook.
  
• Retail and aggregated owner data (Tire Rack, Discount Tire, Tires Plus, SimpleTire) for real-world ratings and user feedback.
  
• Independent reporting and press materials describing tire technology and warranty details.

I’m transparent where statements are manufacturer claims (noted) and where they’re aggregated user/retailed observations. Where possible I point to the source so you can dig deeper.

Quick verdict

Best for: daily commuters, families, light-duty SUVs/crossovers and drivers who want a quiet, comfortable ride plus long tread life at a reasonable price.

Not for: drivers who need a winter tire for heavy snow/ice, performance drivers seeking aggressive cornering, or heavy-load commercial use.

Final rating (subjective, summary): 4.0 / 5 — excellent value, strong tread life and comfort; wet performance is good for an all-season; not a winter specialist.

Hankook Kinergy ST H735: Product Overview

The Kinergy ST H735 sits in Hankook’s standard touring all-season category, designed for sedans, minivans, and small to midsize SUVs.

Key Specifications (General)

Design Highlights

• Symmetric tread pattern for even wear
• High-silica compound to improve wet traction
• Wide circumferential grooves for water evacuation
• Optimized pitch sequencing aimed at reducing road noise

Who this tire is built for

This tire is designed for everyday driving. If you use your car for normal trips—work, errands, school runs, and road trips—this section will help you see if it fits your life.

Daily commuters

If you drive to work most days, especially on highways, this tire is a good match.

• It stays steady at highway speeds.
  
• It keeps road noise low, so the drive feels calmer.
  
• Long drives feel less tiring because the ride is smooth.

Good choice if: you spend a lot of time on the road and want a quiet, comfortable drive.

Families and grocery-run drivers

If your car is used for school drop-offs, shopping, and weekend trips, comfort and safety matter more than sporty driving.

• The tire handles rain well, helping the car stop smoothly on wet roads.
  
• It feels predictable, which means no sudden surprises while braking or turning.
  
• The tread is built to last, so you won’t need new tires too soon.

Good choice if: you want a safe, comfortable tire that works well for everyday family use.

Value-focused buyers

If you want a reliable tire without paying top-brand prices, this tire offers good value.

• It costs less than many premium options.
  
• It comes with a long tread-life warranty.
  
• You get comfort and quiet driving without paying extra for features you may not need.

Good choice if: you want solid performance and long life at a reasonable price.

Small SUV and crossover drivers

This tire works well on small SUVs and crossovers that are mainly driven on paved roads.

• It supports the extra weight of these vehicles without feeling unstable.
  
• It’s comfortable for city and highway driving.
  
• It’s not meant for sporty driving or heavy snow, but it handles everyday conditions well.

Good choice if: you drive a small SUV or crossover and want a smooth, dependable tire for regular use.

Testing methodology (how to judge — and what the sources say)

Because test runs can vary widely and independent lab data for every size is limited publicly, this review synthesizes:

• Manufacturer engineering notes (tread pattern and compound features).
  
• Aggregated user feedback from Tire Rack, Discount Tire, SimpleTire and other retail reviews, which reveal consistent themes (quiet ride, long tread life, good wet grip).
  
• Retail spec sheets for warranty and UTQG references.

If you do your own testing, useful checkpoints are: initial tread depth, 5k/10k/20k mile tread measurements, wet braking distances at a controlled test site, decibel readings at 50/70 mph, and consistent tank-to-tank fuel logging to compare rolling resistance effect. Those are the metrics I look for when evaluating owner reports and lab claims.

In-depth on-road performance

Dry handling & stability

The Kinergy ST touts a rigid center rib intended to improve high-speed stability and braking feel. In practical terms, owners report a stable, confidence-inspiring highway ride and predictable steering for a touring tire — not a sticky sport tire, but very competent for daily driving. If you prioritize razor-sharp turn-in, look at performance touring models instead.

Wet performance & aquaplaning resistance

Hankook’s design includes wide circumferential grooves to evacuate water — a standard and effective approach on modern touring tires. Owner and retail reviews consistently rate wet performance as solid for an all-season, with good traction and confidence in rain. This makes the H735 a reliable choice for rainy climates where heavy snow/ice are not common.

Light snow / winter capability

The Kinergy ST H735 is designed as an all-season tire, meaning it will handle light snow and slush, but it’s not a substitute for a dedicated winter tire in heavy snow or icy conditions. If you regularly drive on packed snow or ice, prioritize a 3-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) winter tire. Retailer pages and product descriptions explicitly position H735 as standard touring/all-season, not a winter specialist.

Comfort & road noise (NVH)

Multiple user reviews and retail descriptions praise the Kinergy ST for its comfortable ride and low noise. Many buyers report the tire is quieter than typical OEM replacements, especially at highway speeds — a big plus for long commutes. If cabin quiet is a top priority, this tire is frequently recommended.

Tread life & warranty — what you can expect

Hankook and many retailers list mileage warranties commonly in the 60,000–70,000 mile range for this model in many popular sizes — a sign that the tire is engineered and marketed for long tread life. Several retailer product pages (Discount Tire, Les Schwab, Big O) explicitly list 70k in some formats, while others may show 60k depending on region/size; confirm the warranty for your specific size and retailer at purchase.

Real-world owner feedback also supports strong treadwear performance: review aggregates highlight treadwear ratings often near the top of the scale for touring tires. That matches Hankook’s marketing about tread-compound optimization for durability. 

Tip: To preserve tread life, rotate tires on schedule, maintain correct pressures, and check alignment. Warranty claims often require the original proof of purchase and periodic maintenance documentation. Consult the Hankook warranty PDF or local dealer for claim procedures.

Fuel efficiency (rolling resistance)

Hankook references compound and construction features aimed at lower rolling resistance to help with fuel economy. In practice, unless you are measuring over many tanks (or have lab numbers), most drivers will see small differences compared with other touring tires. If maximum fuel savings is your #1 priority, low-rolling resistance or eco-focused tires may show measurable gains — but the Kinergy ST balances efficiency with comfort and durability.

Comfort & NVH (noise, vibration, harshness)

Owners consistently describe the H735 as smooth and quiet, with a refined highway hum rather than a high-pitched squeal on coarse pavement. Noise profile is an important comfort metric and is one of the Kinergy ST’s strengths according to aggregated retailer reviews. 

If you hear abnormal vibration on installation, ensure wheel balance and alignment are checked; many NVH issues are caused by wheel/tire balancing or road surface alone.

Pricing & availability — simple, useful info you can act on

Here’s a clear, no-fuss guide to how much the Hankook Kinergy ST H735 usually costs and where to buy it — plus quick steps to find the best installed price for your car.

Typical price per tire (what you’ll see online and in stores)

Expect to pay roughly $80 to $195 per tire, depending on the tire size and seller. Smaller passenger sizes tend to be near the low end; larger SUV sizes push toward the high end. Prices change by size and location, so use the exact tire size for the best estimate.

Where you can buy it

You can find the Kinergy ST H735 at national retailers and online shops — places like Discount Tire, Tire Rack, Amazon, Walmart, Costco, and local tire stores. Each seller may show different prices, installation options, and delivery times.

Warranty & extra protection to know about

Hankook backs this tire with a limited mileage warranty (commonly 70,000 miles). Some stores also sell optional road-hazard protection that covers damage from nails or potholes — read the fine print before you buy.

How to get a full, accurate price (step-by-step)

1. Find your tire size — Look on the driver-side door jamb or in your owner’s manual for something like 205/55R16.
   
2. Check a few sellers — Put that size into Tire Rack, Discount Tire, Costco, and one local shop. Compare the installed price, not just the tire price.
   
3. Add expected shop fees — Ask for mounting + balancing, valve stems, disposal fee, and alignment (alignment is often recommended when replacing tires). These can add roughly $15–$40 per tire plus an alignment fee of $70–$120 — shops vary widely.
   
4. Ask about timing — Some sizes may be in stock; other sizes can be back-ordered. If you need tires soon, check lead time before buying.
   
5. Check warranty registration — If the tire has a mileage warranty, the seller or Hankook may require you to register the purchase or keep rotation records to claim it later.

Example cost check (quick math)

• Tire price (example): $115 each × 4 = $460.
  
• Mounting & balancing: $20 × 4 = $80 (estimate)
  
• Alignment (optional but recommended): $80
  
• Disposal/fees/taxes: $30–$60
  
• Total installed estimate: $650–$700 (this is an example — your numbers may be lower or higher)

Smart buying tips (easy wins)

• Buy a set of four — shops often give a better deal for all four tires than for single purchases.
  
• Ask about installed promotions — retailers often run seasonal discounts or package deals (e.g., free rotation or a rebate).
  
• Compare total installed price — cheaper tires with very high install fees aren’t always the better deal.
  
• Ask about road-hazard coverage — decide if the extra cost is worth it for where you drive (lots of potholes vs. smooth roads).
  
• Confirm warranty rules — some warranties require regular rotations and proof of maintenance to stay valid. 

Comparison with key competitors

When you shop for tires, it’s normal to see the same few names come up again and again. Michelin, Continental, and Goodyear are often mentioned alongside Hankook. Below is a simple, story-style comparison to help you picture how these tires feel in everyday driving.

Hankook Kinergy ST H735 vs Michelin Defender T+H

Imagine two cars driving side by side on the same road.

The Michelin Defender T+H feels a little more “polished.” The steering is slightly smoother, and in light snow it gives a bit more grip and confidence. If you live where winters are colder and snow shows up more often, this can matter.

The Hankook Kinergy ST H735, however, feels very close in normal driving. The ride is comfortable, the road noise is low, and for most dry and wet roads, you won’t notice a big difference. The key difference shows up at the checkout counter — the Hankook usually costs noticeably less.

Simple takeaway:

• Choose Michelin if winter traction and a premium feel matter most.
  
• Choose Hankook if you want similar comfort and long life for less money.

Both tires are built to last many miles and come with strong tread life warranties.

Hankook Kinergy ST H735 vs Continental TrueContact

Now picture driving through city streets and then merging onto the highway.

The Continental TrueContact feels a bit more alert when you turn the steering wheel. The car reacts slightly faster, which some drivers like. It feels more “connected” to the road.

The Hankook Kinergy ST H735 takes a calmer approach. It doesn’t rush into turns, but it feels smoother and quieter, especially on long highway drives. You’ll also usually pay less for the Hankook than for the Continental.

Simple takeaway:

• Choose Continental if you like a more responsive feel.
  
• Choose Hankook if you value quiet rides and saving money.

Hankook Kinergy ST H735 vs Goodyear Assurance Touring

These two are the closest match.

Driving around town, both tires feel comfortable and easy. Bumps are softened, and the car feels stable and relaxed. For daily errands or commuting, most drivers wouldn’t notice a big difference in comfort.

Where the Hankook Kinergy ST H735 often stands out is in rainy weather. It tends to feel a bit more confident when roads are wet, especially for the price.

Simple takeaway:

• Comfort is similar for both.
  
• Hankook often gives better wet-road confidence without costing more.

Overall comparison: what this really means for you

The Hankook Kinergy ST H735 doesn’t try to be a high-performance or luxury tire. Instead, it focuses on what most people care about every day:

• A smooth, quiet ride
  
• Reliable performance in rain
  
• Long tread life
  
• A lower price than premium brands
  

Think of it as a smart, practical choice rather than a flashy one. Premium tires like Michelin and Continental may offer small improvements in certain areas, but the Hankook delivers strong everyday performance without asking you to pay extra.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Quiet, comfortable ride for daily driving.
  
• Strong treadwear and long mileage warranty (60–70k in many sizes).
  
• Good wet traction for an all-season.
  
• Attractive value vs. mileage/comfort tradeoff.

Cons

• Not a dedicated winter tire; limited on ice/packed snow.
  
• Not a high-performance tire for spirited driving.
  
• Warranty and UTQG vary by size — check specifics before purchase.

Practical buying & maintenance tips

• Confirm size & speed/load rating for your vehicle (placard on doorjamb or owner’s manual).
  
• Check warranty specifics for the exact size and retailer (some listings show 60k, others 70k). Keep your purchase receipt and service records if you expect to use the mileage warranty.
  
• Inflation & rotation: Follow vehicle placard pressures for load and carry out rotation every 5k–7.5k miles (or as recommended by installer). Proper maintenance extends tread life.
  
• Alignment: Ensure alignment is correct at installation — uneven wear often comes from alignment rather than the tire itself.

FAQ about Hankook Kinergy ST H735 Review

Is the Hankook Kinergy ST H735 good in the rain?

Yes — its wide circumferential grooves and tread design give reliable wet performance for an all-season touring tire. Reviews and product notes emphasize wet traction.

How long will the H735 last?

Manufacturer/retailer warranties frequently list 60k–70k miles depending on the size and seller. Real-world owner feedback suggests strong longevity when properly maintained.

Is this tire noisy?

No — owner reviews commonly note that it’s quieter than comparable OEM replacements and targets a comfortable, low-noise profile.

Should I use these in heavy snow?

No — for heavy snow/ice you should choose a dedicated winter tire (3PMSF rated). The Kinergy ST is fine in light snow but not built for extreme winter conditions.

Final Verdict: Is the Hankook Kinergy ST H735 Worth It?

This Hankook Kinergy ST H735 review shows that the tire delivers exactly what it promises: a comfortable, quiet, and long-lasting driving experience at a competitive price.

It’s not built for aggressive driving or harsh winter conditions—but for everyday commuting, road trips, and family vehicles, it represents excellent value. If your priorities are ride comfort, wet-road confidence, and long-term durability, the Kinergy ST H735 is a smart and sensible choice.