ATLANTA — Volkswagen of America Inc. has selected 18- and 20-inch versions of the Kumho Crugen Premium KL33 and HP91 as OE fitments on the 2018 Atlas, a seven-passenger SUV built in VW's plant in Chattanooga, Tenn.
Kumho Tire USA Inc. CEO Harry Choi said the "extensive collaboration with Volkswagen further demonstrates our strategic and steadfast focus on expanding our global OE business. We are thrilled to provide our proven and high-quality product with advanced technology."
Designed exclusively for SUVs and crossovers, Kumho claims the Crugen line provides a quiet and comfortable ride usually associated with high-end sedans. In particular, the Crugen Premium KL33 features an upgraded silica compound and noise-canceling tread that reduce road noise and vibration and provide all-weather traction.
The Kumho fitments on the Atlas include the Crugen Premium KL33 in size 245/60R18 for the North American market and the Crugen HP91 in sizes 245/60R18 and 255/50R20 for Atlas models to be exported, Kumho said.
Both models are produced at Kumho's plant in Gwangju, South Korea.
The Atlas is available in five trim levels — S, SE, SE w/ Technology, SEL and SEL Premium — four of which come standard with the 245/60R18 fitment. The SEL Premium comes standard with the 255/50R20 fitment. The model launched last fall.
Kumho is the third tire maker to disclose an OE fitment on the Atlas. Both Continental Tire the Americas and Giti Tire USA Ltd. have fitments.
Conti has three fitments — TerrainContact A/T in size 245/60R18 105H; CrossContact in size 255/50R20 105T; and CrossContact LX Sport in size 255/60R20 105T.