Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nankang a good tyre brand?
Nankang has built a solid reputation among track day drivers and tuning enthusiasts for producing tyres that perform well beyond their price point. Ranges like the AR-1 and NS-2R are widely used on fast road and track focused VW Group cars because they offer strong grip levels without the cost of premium motorsport rubber. As with any tyre, performance depends on matching the right model to the intended use.
Are Nankang tyres budget or mid-range?
Nankang sits in the budget to mid-range bracket compared with the major premium manufacturers, but its motorsport lines such as the AR-1 punch well above that price class. Buyers typically choose Nankang when they want genuine track capable performance without paying premium brand prices. The trade off tends to be shorter tread life on the more track biased compounds.
Who makes Nankang Tyres?
Nankang Rubber Tire Corporation is a Taiwanese tyre manufacturer founded in 1959. It produces tyres for cars, 4x4s and commercial vehicles, and has become well known in the UK specifically for its semi-slick and track focused ranges rather than everyday road tyres.
Are Hankook or Nankang tyres better?
The two brands are aimed at different drivers. Hankook produces a broader range of everyday road tyres with a stronger reputation for comfort and longevity, while Nankang has carved out a name specifically in semi-slick and track day tyres such as the AR-1 and NS-2R. For a car used mainly on track days, Nankang's specialist ranges are usually the more relevant comparison, while Hankook tends to suit drivers wanting an all-round road tyre.
What is the difference between the Nankang AR-1 and NS-2R?
The AR-1 is Nankang's most track focused tyre, built roughly for a 90% track and 10% road split, making it a favourite for regular track day use. The NS-2R is more of a fast road tyre with occasional track use in mind, offering a closer to 50/50 balance so it copes better with everyday driving as well as the odd trackday.