Many are confused about the differences between Primewell PS830 and PS850 touring tires. Both have a symmetrical tread pattern. However, the PS850 has a slightly more aggressive design. These tires were recently replaced by the PS880 and PS870. The PS880 is a high-performance summer tire. Meanwhile, the PS870 is just a standard summer tire.
This review focuses on the Primewell PS830. We tested it on a 2014 Chevrolet Sonic LS hatchback. The car features a 1.8-liter engine, a 6-speed automatic transmission, and 15-inch stock wheels with PS830 tires. It’s a good match for the car’s engine.
The owner, a city resident, uses the Sonic for daily urban commutes. He rarely drives it on highways, saving that for his Toyota 4Runner. He bought the Sonic used two years ago, and it has been reliable. However, the PS830 tires, now close to a year old, are showing wear on all corners of the vehicle.
Primewell PS830/850 Overview
The Primewell PS830/PS850 tires are affordable, all-season touring tires. They aim for a balance of performance, durability, and cost. Their symmetrical tread design and solid shoulder blocks promise good stability and traction in various conditions.
A set of four is cheap, making them a good deal. However, users have noted rapid tread wear, loud road noise, and weak handling, especially in wet or snowy conditions.
These tires work well for drivers on a budget. They offer basic performance and reliability. Yet, those seeking better handling, comfort, and durability should look elsewhere.
Primewell PS830/850 Specification
| Specification | Primewell PS830/850 |
|---|---|
| Tire Type | All-Season Touring |
| Tread Design | Symmetrical |
| Tread Depth (inches) | N/A |
| Treadwear Warranty | Varies (typically around 40,000 to 50,000 miles) |
| Speed Rating | Varies (typically T, H, or V) |
| Load Index | Varies (depends on tire size) |
| Construction | Radial |
| Sidewall Construction | Black Sidewall |
| UTQG Rating | 460AB (for reference only) |
| Available Sizes | Various sizes available for different vehicles |
| Price Range (per tire) | Affordable, typically below $100 |
| Suitable Vehicles | Compact cars, sedans, small SUVs |
| Performance | Balanced performance for everyday driving, compromised in extreme conditions |
Features
I’ve heard a lot of negative comments about the Primewell PS830 even before this review. People often complain about its quick wear, loud noise, and low durability. To address these issues, Primewell may have upgraded its tire lineup.
The PS830 has four main grooves and strong shoulder blocks. These aim to boost stability and traction in all conditions. It’s an all-season tire that grips well on wet or icy roads. Yet, its best feature is the price. You can get a set of four for under $350. That’s a great deal.
Test Drive
I drove the Chevrolet Sonic for the first time. It looks sporty but has a cheap interior. Despite feeling cheaper than its price, it’s good for city driving. The car is fun, agile, and handles well. However, my review will focus on its tires. They didn’t meet my expectations, considering the Sonic’s good handling.
Dry Traction:
The Primewell PS830/PS850 tires had grip issues in moderate-speed corners. They squealed but didn’t cause much trouble. Front tires struggled for grip, leading to minor steering tugs. On smooth roads with sand and dirt, the tires squirmed during acceleration. Yet, stability improved at higher speeds. Their grip on dry surfaces was decent, but not outstanding.
Wet Traction:
The tires gripped well in light rain. However, they struggled at high speeds. The Sonic’s strong chassis often outshone its tires. This led to a poor suspension feel, especially on wet roads. To stay safe, I had to drive steadily and avoid sudden turns. I wished for better wet performance.
Snow Traction:
I haven’t tested the tires in snow. Yet, I’d be cautious in light snow with Primewell PS830 tires. Their weak wet grip worries me about snow. Reports say they struggle in deep snow, showing possible issues.
Comfort:
One commendable aspect of the Primewell PS830/PS850 tires is their comfort. They provided a smooth ride on city streets and highways, effectively dampening bumps and thumps from uneven surfaces and potholes. Despite their shortcomings elsewhere, the tires offered a comfortable driving experience.
Noise:
Unfortunately, noise levels were a problem, especially at higher highway speeds. The tires roared, even below 40 mph, which was surprising. This contradicted their quiet performance at lower speeds. Also, the Primewell PS830/PS850 tires lacked refinement compared to other budget options.
Treadwear:
I tested the Primewell PS830 tires, which were almost a year old and only used in the city. Their performance was average. Reports show they last around 14,000 to 15,000 miles before needing replacement, mainly due to quick tread wear.
These tires are affordable and provide good dry traction and comfort. However, they struggle in wet and snowy conditions. They also wear out quickly and are noisier. These issues lower their appeal.
Vehicle Primewell PS830/850 Tire Will Fit
- Toyota Corolla
- Honda Civic
- Ford Focus
- Chevrolet Cruze
- Nissan Sentra
- Hyundai Elantra
- Mazda 3
- Subaru Impreza
- Volkswagen Jetta
- Kia Soul
Conclusion
In conclusion, the newer Primewell PS870 and PS880 models are great for affordable touring tires. Unlike the PS830/PS850, they offer better value. The latter are also fine but lack in handling and driving pleasure. So, if your main concern is cost, they work. Yet, for those who care more about performance and comfort, other options might be better.