The Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8+ is a studless ice and snow tire specifically designed for light trucks, SUVs, and crossovers. This tire serves as the updated successor to the Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8, a model first introduced in 2013. Aimed at providing optimal winter performance, especially on icy surfaces, the Winter Maxx SJ8+ showcases a refined rubber compound without altering the trusted tread pattern of its predecessor.

Features & Benefits

• Superior Icy Surface Traction: The tire is engineered to provide markedly better grip on icy conditions, addressing the limitations of its predecessor.
• Enhanced Braking Efficiency: Braking on icy surfaces has been improved by an impressive 14%, making the tire a safer choice for winter driving.
• Improved Lateral Stability: The tire offers 11% better lateral stability on icy surfaces compared to its previous iteration.
• Long-lasting Performance: The rubber compound retains its properties even as the tire wears, ensuring consistent performance throughout its lifespan.
• Ride Quality: The Winter Maxx SJ8+ ensures better ride quality on icy roads due to its rubber compound that remains soft at low temperatures.

Technologies

• Advanced Rubber Compound: An updated rubber compound featuring an uneven surface structure improves water drainage by 1.5-2 times, leading to enhanced braking efficiency and lateral stability.
• Kuraray Liquid Farnesene Rubber: This specialized rubber ingredient helps maintain the softness of the tire at low temperatures, thereby improving traction and ride quality on icy roads.

Year Released

The Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8+ was launched in 2021, taking over from the Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8 introduced in 2013.

Regions Availability

The Winter Maxx SJ8+ is available exclusively in Japan.

Vehicle Compatibility / Popular Vehicle Fitments

The Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8+ is primarily compatible with a wide variety of light trucks, SUVs, and crossovers. Its design considerations take into account the specific needs of these heavier, often all-wheel-drive vehicles, making it an optimal choice for drivers in these categories.

Final Thoughts

The Dunlop Winter Maxx SJ8+ represents a significant improvement in icy surface performance, building on the foundation laid by its predecessor. By focusing primarily on the rubber compound, the tire achieves impressive gains in braking efficiency and lateral stability without compromising on other performance aspects. Its specialized technologies and materials contribute to these gains and maintain a high level of performance even as the tire wears.

For those in Japan seeking a reliable, high-performing winter tire for their light trucks, SUVs, or crossovers, the Winter Maxx SJ8+ stands out as a compelling option. Its advancements in material science and targeted design refinements make it a top-tier choice for challenging winter conditions.