Tire: SP Winter Sport 3D DSST RunOnFlat
Category: Performance Winter / Snow
UTQG (treadwear): Not rated
The Dunlop SP Winter Sport 3D DSST RunOnFlat (one of the longest tire names out there) is the run flat version of the very well liked Dunlop SP Winter Sport 3D that we have reviewed previously. There are some key differences between the tires, not to mention that this tire has a different internal structure that allows it to go for 50 miles at 55 mph in the event of a pressure loss. Another difference you'll notice is that these tires are pretty much set aside and can only be fitted as low profile tires, so you are likely to not see your size available if you're just shopping around. This tire also has three different types of tread sipes that create different traction zones to provide grip across pretty much any road condition. It is recommended that these tires only be equipped on vehicles that originally came with run flat tires and have a pressure monitoring system. Dunlop also recommends that these tires only be installed in sets of four, and the SP Winter Sport 3D DSST RunOnFlat meets the industry standard for severe snow service.
I seem to hear from a lot of Mini Cooper drivers that run this tire because it is very well thought of in that enthusiast community. One of the downsides to this run flat version is that you'll end up replacing them more often. While that isn't necessarily the rule when it comes to run flat tires, it's not surprising to hear. Most divers tend to only get about 30,000 miles out of a set, which also happens to be sub par when looking at other winter tires. People also complain that the tires are pretty noisy compared with other tires, and that they provide a fairly harsh ride. With all that being said, I haven't heard one complaint about their performance or traction ability...it's very good and close to the regular SP Winter Sport 3D. So overall I think this is a solid winter performance tire, but maybe a little pricey considering that you'll have to replace it every 30,000 miles or so.
