Nexen is a South Korean tyre maker, with roots going back to 1942 under earlier names, that today competes as a value brand performing above its price. Like its compatriots, it has won a growing number of original-equipment fitments on mainstream cars, which says carmakers increasingly trust it.
Where it sits
Nexen sits at the value to lower-mid-range level. It is priced like a value brand but increasingly performs and is fitted like a mid-range one, which lifts it above the unknown cheap names it is often lumped in with, the distinction drawn under whether budget tyres are worth it.
What it is known for
- Value: strong everyday performance for the price
- Original-equipment deals: a real sign of credibility
- Improving reputation: a budget brand that has moved up
The ranges that matter
- N'Fera: performance
- N'blue: efficient, comfortable touring
- Winguard: winter
- Roadian: SUV and light commercial
Where they are made
Nexen manufactures in South Korea and at plants elsewhere, including in Europe, so a tyre's origin depends on the model and size. The sidewall identifies where a specific tyre was produced.
Who they suit
Budget-conscious drivers who still want a tyre that carmakers themselves fit, rather than an unknown name. For an everyday car on a sensible budget it is a strong value pick; the wider value question is covered under the budget brands worth a look.
From the reviews desk: Nexen's the value brand I'm happiest to see come in on a car. It's cheap enough to count as budget but it turns up as original fit on plenty of normal cars, which tells you the makers rate it. If the wallet says budget, this is the sort of name I'd steer people to over something nobody's heard of.
Sources and accuracy. This is a general brand profile at the time of writing; specific performance should be read from a current, dated independent test in your size. If anything here looks wrong, get in touch and we will check it and put it right.
Common questions
Are Nexen tyres any good?+
Nexen is a value brand that performs above its price, and a growing number of carmakers fit it as original equipment, which is a meaningful vote of confidence. It is not premium, but for the money it is generally a sound everyday tyre and a clear step up from the unknown cheap names. Check a current test in your size.
Is Nexen a budget brand?+
Nexen sits at the value to lower-mid-range level. It is priced like a value brand but increasingly performs and is fitted like a mid-range one, appearing as original equipment on mainstream cars, which sets it apart from the bargain-bin tyres it is often grouped with.
What are Nexen's main ranges?+
N'Fera for performance, N'blue for efficient everyday touring, Winguard for winter, and Roadian for SUVs and light commercials. The right choice depends on the car and how it is used.
Where are Nexen tyres made?+
Nexen is a South Korean company with manufacturing in South Korea and at plants in other countries, including in Europe. A specific tyre's origin depends on the model and size, identified on the sidewall.