Nexen supplying OE tires for 2017 Chrysler Pacifica

SEOUL, South Korea (May 26, 2016) — Nexen Tire Corp.  has snagged an OE fitment on the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica with its N'Priz RH7@ high-performance SUV tire.

The tire, in size 235/60R18 103H, delivers “unparalleled levels of functionality, versatility, technology and bold styling” to the Pacifica minivan, according to the South Korean tire maker.

This is the fifth OE fitment announced on the Pacifica. Earlier Bridgestone Americas,  Kumho Tire USA Inc., Sumitomo Rubber North America and Yokohama Tire Corp. disclosed OE contracts on the Pacifica.

“We are pleased to see that Nexen Tire's N'Priz RH7@ [has been] selected as OE tires for the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, as it is designated for crossovers and SUVs with outstanding handling and braking to provide ride comfort, long-life tread and low-level noise,” the company said.

The Pacifica — which reprises a Chrysler mid-size crossover nameplate from the mid-2000s with more traditional minivan styling and load-carrying capacity — went on sale in the U.S. in May. A hybrid model is due out in late 2016.

Since 2013, Nexen products have been an OE choice on the Chrysler 200, Ram 3500 and Ram ProMaster City, and the company said it “plans to expand supplies of OE tires in the North American market.”

The tire maker cited its “quality competitiveness,” and said it is “eager to raise greater brand awareness and strengthen our market positioning.” It pointed to Nexen's various sports marketing activities, including partnerships with three Major League Baseball teams, sponsorship of Formula Drift games, and official partnership with Manchester City Football Club, a United Kingdom-based soccer team as among ways the company is raising its visibility.

Nexen operates research facilities in Korea, China, the U.S. and Germany, two manufacturing plants in South Korea and another in Qingdao, China. By 2018, a new factory currently under construction is scheduled to begin operating in Zatec, the Czech Republic, “to cater increasing demands in the global market,” the company said.

Established in 1942, Nexen is based in Yangsan, South Gyeongsang Province, and in Seoul.