Last Updated: November 21, 2024
Purchasing the right tire for your SUV truly depends on many factors. No one tire is great at everything, so you need to know where you will be driving your SUV. Since I've been on a third set of tires for my SUV in the past 12 months alone, I have spent more hours than I would like to admit reading forums and Facebook groups looking for the best tires for all seasons and terrains. In this article, I'm sharing the best tires that my research has led me to, out of which now I have three sets myself.
Many SUV owners only consider the treadwear warranty and price as the major factors before deciding what tire to buy. However, as the old saying goes, “Cheap pays twice,” there are many other things to consider when shopping for the best tire for an SUV. I have done extensive research and testing, as well as spoken with numerous experts in the tire industry to come up with a list of the best SUV tires available based on different needs.
Product Image | Product Name / Our Rating / Price | Primary Button |
---|---|---|
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
Top 8 Best Tires for SUVs
- Best Overall: Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive
- Best All Terrain Tire for SUVs: Falken Wildpeak A/T4W
- Best Winter Tire for SUVs: Bridgestone Blizzak DMV2
- Best For Midsize SUVs: Michelin Defender LTX M/S
- Best All-Season Tires for Crossovers: Michelin CrossClimate SUV
- Best Premium Tire for SUV: Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
- Best Efficiency Focused: Continental CrossContact LX25
- Best Winter Tire: Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV
- Highly Responsive Handling: BFGoodrich Advantage T/A Sport LT
Before diving into our carefully curated list of the top 5 best SUV tires, it's essential to understand that choosing the right tires for your vehicle can significantly impact your driving experience, safety, and fuel efficiency. Our expert recommendations consider various factors, including performance in weather conditions, road grip, tread life, and overall durability. In addition, we've analyzed numerous tire models from leading manufacturers to provide you with the best options for your SUV. So, without further ado, let's explore the top 5 best SUV tires that deliver excellent performance, safety, and value for your investment.
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive – Best Overall Tire for SUVs
- Load Range: SL – XL
- Load Index: 100 – 114
- Tread Depth: 11″
- Warranty: 60,000 miles
- Max PSI: 44 PSI – 50 PSI
- Speed Rating: H – UP TO 130 MPH – Y – UP TO 186 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 40 – 65
The Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive emerges as a top-tier choice for drivers seeking the best all-season tire for crossovers, delivering a harmonious blend of year-round traction, durability, and performance. Priced at $270.00 each, these tires offer a premium solution for your crossover, SUV, or pickup, providing dependable performance from summer through winter. The Scorpion WeatherActive stands out with its innovative design and materials, ensuring flexibility across a wide temperature range and maintaining traction even in Arctic-like conditions. Its Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake severe weather rating attests to its capability in challenging winter conditions.
Pirelli has engineered the Scorpion WeatherActive with trumpet-shaped lateral grooves, which efficiently eject water from the tire's contact patch. This design significantly reduces the risk of hydroplaning while enhancing wet performance, making it a reliable choice for rainy conditions. The tire's narrow, long footprint contributes to even tread wear and improved snow traction. The deep and continuous siping adds numerous biting edges, offering exceptional wet and wintry grip throughout the tire's life. The three-rib tread block design optimizes tire stiffness and balance, promoting uniform wear and extending the service life.
Pirelli backs the Scorpion WeatherActive with a 60,000-mile warranty, emphasizing its commitment to lasting quality. For added peace of mind, Pirelli offers the option to include Certificates for complete tire protection coverage. A replacement is provided at no extra cost if a tire can't be safely repaired. With its severe weather rating, low noise profile, and excellent traction in both wet and wintry conditions, the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive is an ideal all-season tire for crossovers, SUVs, and pickups, designed to deliver performance and safety in all driving conditions.
Pros
- Great all-weather traction
- Enhanced performance on wet pavement
- Long life-span of the tire and great warranty
- Comfortable ride quality
Cons
- Traction Rating: With a ‘B' rating for traction in the UTQG, tires in the market might offer slightly better traction performance.
Falken Wildpeak AT4W – Best All Terrain Tire for SUVs
- Load Range: C1 - XL
- Load Index: 99 - 129
- Tread Depth: 13" - 19"
- Warranty: 60,000 - 65,000 miles
- Max PSI: 35 PSI - 83 PSI
- Speed Rating: H - UP TO 130 MPH - T - UP TO 118 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 10.5 - 9.5
The Falken Wildpeak A/T4W is our top pick for SUVs' best all-terrain tire. It delivers an exceptional blend of off-road capability and on-road refinement. Priced from around $162 to $538, the Wildpeak A/T4W offers reliable, high-performance traction for adventurous drivers who demand versatility without breaking the bank.
Designed with Falken's advanced Heat Diffuser Technology, the Wildpeak A/T4W excels at keeping critical tire components cool, which helps protect against wear in challenging environments. This feature and 3D Canyon Sipe Technology enhance stability and provide remarkable traction in wet, snowy, or icy conditions. The Rugged and Rigid Tread Blocks enhance durability, contributing to a sturdy tire that can easily tackle gravel, mud, or snow. However, if you plan to do a lot of driving in the snow, our tests show that you will not want to rely too much on the A/T4W tire and will need to find a true winter tire.
Key highlights of the Falken Wildpeak A/T4W include:
- Severe Snow Service Rating: Certified with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol for severe winter performance.
- Optimized Tread Design: Improves grip and reduces noise for a comfortable on-road experience.
- Sidewall Armor: Reinforced sidewalls protect against sharp rocks and rough terrain, adding confidence to off-road ventures.
- Aggressive Upper Sidewall Design: Provides additional off-road traction in soft terrain conditions.
In addition to its rugged build, the Wildpeak A/T4W is backed by a 55,000-mile warranty, a strong commitment from Falken that assures longevity and quality. This all-terrain tire is great for SUV owners who want reliable year-round performance without compromise.
Pros
- Outstanding off-road performance combined with on-road comfort
- Excellent all-season capabilities with a severe winter rating
- Reinforced sidewall for added protection in rough terrains
- Competitive pricing within the all-terrain category
- Low noise levels on highways
Cons
- May wear faster on aggressive off-road terrain
- Limited fuel efficiency due to its rugged design
Read our full Falken Wildpeak AT4W Review.
Bridgestone Blizzak DMV2 – Best Winter Tire for SUVs
- Load Range: SL – XL
- Load Index: 95 – 117
- Tread Depth: 13″ – 14″
- Warranty: Discount Tire offers their Certificate of Coverage
- Max PSI: 35 PSI – 50 PSI
- Speed Rating: R – UP TO 106 MPH – T – UP TO 118 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 40 – 75
- Features: Winter, Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake, Winter, Performance
The Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 is the top recommendation for drivers needing reliable winter tires for SUVs, light trucks, and CUVs. Priced from approximately $144 to $344 per tire, the Blizzak DM-V2 combines innovative technology and outstanding winter performance, offering peace of mind on icy, snowy, or slushy roads. Designed for those who refuse to let winter conditions dictate their travel plans, this tire provides excellent traction and braking power when it matters most.
If you are considering using your all-terrain tires that have severe snow rating in winter, you might want to reconsider that strategy. There are no better tires in winter than dedicated winter tires, so swapping them in for a season might save you quite a bit of a headaches when it's slippery outside. That was the main reason why we ended up switching out Falken Wildpeak AT4W tires for Colorado winter with the Bridgestone Blizzak DMV2 tires on the shop 4Runner.
Features and Performance
The Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 stands out due to its advanced winter tire technology, including:
- Multi-Cell Rubber Compounds: These materials help evacuate water from the tire's surface, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and improving grip on slick roads.
- Hydrophilic Coating: A special layer designed to increase traction by interacting with snow and ice, ensuring confidence in extreme winter conditions.
- 15% Increase in Block Edges: Enhances the tire's contact with the road, providing superior control and stability, even in sub-zero temperatures.
- Bite Particles: Microscopic particles embedded in the tread allow the tire to grip icy surfaces effectively, improving braking power and overall handling.
Durability and Longevity
With its industry-leading tread design and careful storage in warmer months, the Blizzak DM-V2 offers multi-season winter performance. Although it has no mileage warranty, it is engineered to last through several winters, making it a worthwhile investment for those in harsh climates.
Certified for Severe Winter Weather
- Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake Rating: This certification ensures the Blizzak DM-V2 meets the highest winter traction and safety standards.
Key Specifications
- Tread Depth: 13-14/32nds for excellent traction in snow.
- Load Range: SL to XL options available.
- Section Width: 215 to 285, accommodating a variety of SUV and light truck sizes.
- Speed Rating: R (up to 106 mph) and T (up to 118 mph).
Pros
- Exceptional grip and control on snow, ice, and slush.
- Advanced braking power on slippery surfaces.
- Durable tread design for long-term use.
- Certified severe snow performance.
- Wide range of sizes for compatibility with various vehicles.
Cons
- No mileage warranty is provided.
- Not suitable for year-round use; must be stored during warmer months.
Michelin Defender LTX M/S 2 – Best For Mid-Sized SUVs
- Load Range: E1 – XL
- Load Index: 111 – 129
- Tread Depth: 11″ – 14″
- Warranty: 50,000 – 70,000 miles
- Max PSI: 50 PSI – 80 PSI
- Speed Rating: H – UP TO 130 MPH – T – UP TO 118 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 12.5 – 75
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S 2 tire is a highly regarded option for drivers looking for a blend of performance, durability, and comfort. Priced between $235.00 and $578.00 per tire, plus installation costs, it represents a significant investment in vehicle performance. The tire comes in various sizes, suitable for various vehicle types, including light trucks, SUVs, and CUVs.
The customization options extend to the load index/speed rating, load range (from C1 to XL), and sidewall type, offering tailored solutions for different driving needs and vehicle specifications. The Defender LTX M/S boasts an impressive 4.8 rating based on customer reviews, reflecting its popularity and reliability among users. We dug through tire websites, forums, and Facebook groups while conducting in-depth research. Michelin Defender LTX M/S had raving reviews across the globe.
In terms of features, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S 2 stands out for its all-season capability, ensuring performance in various weather conditions. Depending on the specific model, the tire has a substantial 50,000 to 70,000 miles warranty. The tire is equipped with the advanced Evertread compound, enhancing durability, especially under heavy loads and severe road conditions. Its MaxTouch Construction is designed to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness, offering a smoother driving experience and fuel efficiency.
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S 2 also excels in safety and performance metrics. It provides shorter stopping distances in winter weather and wet conditions than other tires with similar warranties. With treadwear ratings ranging from 720 to 800, it offers solid traction (graded A – AA) and temperature (A) performance. You can read our full Michelin Defender review for a more in-depth look at our conclusions from testing these tires ourselves.
Pros
- Quiet and comfortable
- Performs great on dry and wet pavement
- Performs well in snow, but wouldn't fully trust it in heavier snow
- Does not decrease gas mileage for vehicles
- Great durability paired with just as great warranty
Cons
- A bit costlier
- Not 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake rated
- Not great on icy roads
Michelin CrossClimate SUV – Best Tire for Small SUVs
- Load Range: SL – XL
- Load Index: 100 – 111
- Tread Depth: 9″
- Warranty: 40,000 – 50,000 miles
- Max PSI: 50 PSI – 51 PSI
- Speed Rating: H – UP TO 130 MPH – Y – UP TO 186 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 45 – 70
The CrossClimate SUV for Michelin has become the best choice for its excellent durability and traction. However, you can maintain this tire's dry and wet traction. Regarding durability and tread pattern, the Michelin CrossClimate SUV tire is a great fit for a smaller SUV. There are many chats online about how CrossClimate SUV tires are one-directional. Therefore, they can't be rotated; some people do not like that. That's an advantage to not having to worry about tire rotation.
With its 3D SipeLock technology and multiple tread blocks, the Michelin CrossClimate SUV offers outstanding traction for dry and wet driving conditions. In addition, the tire's ingenious tread design, coupled with the advanced Thermal Adaptive compound, also performs wonders. Due to its commendable technologies, the Michelin CrossClimate SUV remains flexible enough in harsh winter conditions.
Along with a rating of 3 PMSF, the manufacturer also uses PIANO noise reduction technology to make your ride more comfortable and smoother. This tire also comes with a 40,000-—to 50,000-mile warranty for improved durability. The handling of the Michelin CrossClimate SUV tire is also quite balanced, with only a hint that you have entered the corner. We have extensively tested the sister tire Michelin CrossClimate2 and have only great things to say.
Pros
- Less noisy even at high speeds
- Excellent durability
- Best all-season tires in the rain
- Greater braking and handling on dry roads
- Good braking on snow-covered roads
- PIANO Noise Reduction technology
- Heat-adapting compounds
- Balanced handling and firmer grip on snow
Cons
- A bit costlier
- Firmer over bumps
- Can be noisy on some surfaces
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 – Best Premium Tire for SUVs
- Rating: 4.8/5.0
- Price: $179 – $320
- Load Range: SL – XL
- Load Index: 95 – 117
- Tread Depth: 12″
- Warranty: 70,000 miles
- Max PSI: 44 PSI – 51 PSI
- Speed Rating: H – UP TO 130 MPH – V – UP TO 149 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 45 – 70
The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is the best premium SUV tire choice, combining luxury, longevity, and versatile performance. With a price range of $179.00 to $320.00, this tire is designed specifically to cater to the demands of drivers in the North American market, particularly those with crossovers, SUVs, and pickup trucks. The Scorpion AS Plus 3, a newly redesigned addition to the esteemed Scorpion line, brings forth innovative features like a novel tread pattern, advanced compound, and improved construction. These enhancements bolster snow performance and significantly upgrade wet and dry handling, making it an ideal all-season option.
Key performance features of the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 include an optimized mold profile that creates a shorter and larger footprint, enhancing braking, mileage, and tread life. The improved tread pattern ensures increased surface contact and slower tread wear, extending tire longevity. The tire also boasts consistent traction, handling, and braking in all weather conditions, including snow, thanks to deep, zig-zag central sipes and horizontal, vertical 3D sipes in the shoulders. However, if you want a superior grip in extreme winter conditions, look at the best winter tires list or other tires on this page with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating. Additionally, the fewer and longer shoulder blocks increase tire stiffness, improving handling, while the carcass and tread design dampens bumps for a quiet and comfortable ride.
With a 70,000-mile manufacturer warranty, the Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 promises high-end, durable performance across all seasons. The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is not just a tire; it's a commitment to a quiet, comfortable, and dependable all-season driving experience for SUV owners who value premium quality.
Pros
- Enhanced all-season performance
- Longevity and durability
- Excellent traction and braking
- Comfortable ride
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- Pricey
- Limited options for smaller vehicles
- Not Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake
Continental CrossContact LX25 – Best Efficiency Focused Tire for SUVs
- Rating: 4.7/5.0
- Price: $166 – $285
- Load Range: SL – XL
- Load Index: 113 – 115
- Tread Depth: 11″
- Warranty: 65,000 – 70,000 miles
- Max PSI: 44 PSI
- Speed Rating: H – UP TO 130 MPH – V – UP TO 149 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 45 – 70
The Continental CrossContact LX25 exemplifies efficiency-focused design for SUVs and crossovers, offering a blend of all-season performance, durability, and fuel efficiency. This tire, a second generation in the CrossContact family, comes with a generous 65-70,000-mile warranty, reflecting its robust construction and long-lasting tread life. One of its most notable features is the EcoPlus Technology, which enhances fuel efficiency and ensures shorter stopping distances on wet roads. This technology, coupled with the extended tread life, positions the CrossContact LX25 as a top choice for drivers prioritizing environmental consciousness and safety.
Regarding ride quality and handling, the Continental CrossContact LX25 excels with its Comfort Ride Technology. This feature ensures a smoother, quieter driving experience like a new car. The tire's design focuses on delivering sharp handling and sticky traction in various conditions, including wet, dry, and light snow. The lateral and diagonal siping and traction grooves provide a solid grip in slippery conditions, enhancing the tire's versatility across different weather scenarios. The internal construction is equally impressive, with a polyester cord body supported by two heavy-duty steel belts, ensuring durability and longevity.
The CrossContact LX25's versatility is further highlighted by its wide range of fitment options, suitable for wheel diameters from 16 to 22 inches. This makes it a perfect match for a diverse array of vehicles. The spirally wound polyamide reinforcement augments the high-speed capability and handling, adding to the tire's overall stability and performance. With such comprehensive features, the CrossContact LX25 stands out as the best efficiency-focused tire for SUVs, offering a balanced mix of performance, comfort, and environmental friendliness.
Pros
- EcoPlus Technology helps fuel efficiency
- Comfortable ride
- Versatile performance in various weather conditions
- Long thread life
- Great size options that fit a wide range of vehicles
Cons
- On the costlier tire end
- Not Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rated
- Some drivers reported these tires being a bit too noisy
Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV – Best Winter Tire for SUV
- Rating: 4.8/5.0
- Price: $186 – $520
- Load Range: SL – XL
- Load Index: 83 – 103
- Tread Depth: 10″
- Warranty: 40,000 miles
- Max PSI: 44 PSI
- Speed Rating: H – UP TO 130 MPH – T – UP TO 118 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 40 – 70
The Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV tire stands as a pinnacle in the winter tire category for SUVs, offering unmatched performance in the harshest of winter conditions. Priced between $186.00 and $520.00, these tires are designed to instill confidence in SUV drivers facing icy, snowy, and slushy roads. Michelin's commitment to safety and innovation is evident in the X-Ice Snow SUV's ability to stop up to 8.85 feet shorter on ice than other leading winter tires, a testament to the advanced Ice Snow Michelin Evergrip technologies employed in its design.
Evergrip technology, the core of the X-Ice Snow SUV's prowess, features a rigid polymer-based rubber compound that enhances grip on ice and snow throughout the tire's lifespan. This, coupled with full-depth sipes and a wear-resistant tread design, ensures consistent and long-lasting winter traction. The tire is also designed to be fuel-efficient, with almost a 10% decrease in rolling resistance, which translates to better gas mileage without compromising winter performance. The tire's 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake Rating signifies its capability to exceed the Rubber Manufacturer Association's requirements for severe snow and winter weather traction.
Regarding treadwear and warranty, the Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV is designed for longevity. Its wear-resistant tread compound and optimized tread design facilitate even wear across the tire's lifespan. Michelin backs this tire with a 40,000-mile limited manufacturer's warranty, offering peace of mind to drivers. Exclusive Certificate coverage is available for those seeking additional protection, covering the tires to 3/32″ of wear. The Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV is not just a winter tire; it's a commitment to safe, confident, and efficient winter driving for SUV owners.
Pros
- Superior winter performance
- Evergrip Technology
- Fuel efficiency
- Versatile traction in different road conditions
- One of the few winter tires with mileage warranty
Cons
- Cost
- Optimized for severe winters
BFGoodrich Advantage T/A Sport LT – Highly Responsive Handling Tire
- Rating: 4.6/5.0
- Price: $159 – $283
- Load Range: SL – XL
- Load Index: 99 – 116
- Tread Depth: 10″ – 11″
- Warranty: 60,000 – 65,000 miles
- Max PSI: 44 PSI – 50 PSI
- Speed Rating: H – UP TO 130 MPH – V – UP TO 149 MPH
- Tire Aspect Ratio: 45 – 75
The BFGoodrich Advantage T/A Sport LT is an exceptional all-season tire designed for a broad range of SUVs. Renowned for its versatility, it offers excellent traction across wet, dry, and lightly snowy conditions, making it a reliable choice for diverse weather patterns.
This tire is engineered for extended tread life, thanks to its optimized footprint that evenly distributes stress and contact pressure, enhancing durability and ride quality. The Advantage T/A Sport LT is also known for its responsive steering and stable handling, which is credited to its reinforced internal structure. This makes it ideal for drivers who value a dynamic driving experience.
Despite its rugged design, it provides a smooth and quiet ride, effectively absorbing road vibrations. This is essential for everyday commuting and long road trips. Available in various sizes and load ratings, it fits various SUVs, from compact crossovers to full-size models.
The BFGoodrich Advantage T/A Sport LT stands out in the SUV tire market for its all-season performance, durability, handling, and comfort, making it a top choice for SUV drivers seeking a tire that balances quality and versatility.
Pros
- Four-Season Traction: The Advantage T/A Sport LT's silica-infused compound ensures optimal grip throughout the year, making it a true all-season champion.
- Advanced Sipe Technology: The Locking 3D Active Sipe Technology ensures added traction on wet and light snowy surfaces, elevating the tire's safety profile.
- Superior Handling: BFGoodrich's ETEC System™ promotes responsive handling, especially during sharp cornering and high-speed situations, and prolongs tire life.
- Resistance to Hydroplaning: The Aqua-Flue Technology actively disperses water, minimizing the risk of hydroplaning and ensuring a safer drive in wet conditions.
- Impressive Warranty: BFGoodrich's confidence in the tire's durability and longevity is reflected in its warranty of up to 65,000 miles.
Cons
- Traction Rating: With a ‘B' rating for traction in the UTQG, tires in the market might offer slightly better traction performance.
How are SUV tires different from regular car tires?
Regarding tires, the distinction between SUVs and regular cars is crucial, as each vehicle type has specific requirements for optimal performance and safety. SUV tires are designed to accommodate the unique characteristics of these larger, heavier vehicles. In contrast, regular car tires cater to the needs of smaller, lighter passenger cars. In this section, we'll explore the key differences between SUV tires and regular car tires to help you understand the importance of selecting the right tires for your vehicle.
One of the primary differences between SUVs and regular car tires is their load-carrying capacity. With their larger size and heavier weight, SUVs require tires that can handle increased load demands without compromising performance or safety. As a result, SUV tires are typically constructed with stronger materials and reinforced sidewalls, which provide better support and durability. These tires are also designed to handle higher air pressure, essential for evenly distributing the vehicle's weight and ensuring a smooth ride.
Another key difference between SUVs and regular car tires is their performance in various driving conditions. SUVs are often equipped with all-wheel or four-wheel drive systems and are built to handle a wide range of terrains, from highways to off-road trails. Consequently, SUV tires are crafted with deeper, more aggressive tread patterns that improve traction and grip on diverse surfaces, such as mud, snow, and sand. On the other hand, regular car tires typically have shallower tread patterns designed for smoother, paved roads, focusing on fuel efficiency, ride comfort, and road noise reduction.
In summary, SUV tires and regular car tires are designed to cater to the specific needs of their respective vehicle types. SUV tires offer enhanced load-carrying capacity, durability, and traction for various driving conditions, while regular car tires prioritize fuel efficiency, ride comfort, and reduced road noise. Understanding these differences is vital when choosing the right tires for your vehicle, as the right tires can significantly impact your driving experience, safety, and performance.
Things to Look for When Buying SUV Tires
Selecting the right tires for your SUV is essential for optimizing performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. However, with numerous available options, choosing the best tires for your specific needs can take time and effort. To help you make an informed decision, consider the following factors when purchasing SUV tires:
- Load-carrying capacity: SUVs are typically heavier than regular cars, so choosing tires that can handle the increased weight is crucial. Check the load index on the tire's sidewall, which indicates the maximum weight the tire can support. Ensure the load index aligns with your vehicle's requirements, as the owner's manual specifies.
- Driving conditions: Consider the types of driving conditions you regularly encounter, such as urban streets, highways, or off-road trails. For example, if you frequently drive on rough terrain or in harsh weather, look for all-terrain or mud-terrain tires with deep, aggressive tread patterns for improved traction and grip.
- Tire size: Choosing the right tire size for your SUV is essential to maintain proper handling, fuel efficiency, and ride comfort. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual or the tire information placard (typically on the driver's side door jamb) for the recommended tire size.
- Speed rating: The speed rating indicates the maximum speed a tire can safely maintain over time. While SUVs may not typically reach high speeds, choosing a tire with an appropriate speed rating for your driving habits and vehicle performance requirements is still important.
- Tread life and warranty: Tread life is an important factor to consider when assessing the long-term value of a tire. Look for tires with a longer tread life and a warranty that covers tread wear, as this can save you money in the long run.
- Fuel efficiency: Some tires are specifically designed to optimize fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance. If fuel economy is a priority for you, consider investing in low-rolling resistance tires.
- Noise and ride comfort: The tire's design and materials can significantly impact road noise and ride comfort. Look for tires that provide a smooth, quiet ride, particularly if you spend a lot of time driving on highways.
- Price and brand reputation: While the most expensive tires aren't always the best, it's essential to consider the reputation of the tire brand and find a balance between quality and cost. Research customer reviews and expert recommendations to ensure you invest in a reliable product.
Considering these factors when purchasing SUV tires, you can find the right set to match your driving needs and preferences, ensuring optimal performance, safety, and value for your investment.
The Car Data Tire Testing Methodology
We take pride in providing thorough and unbiased reviews of the latest tire models. To ensure our ratings are accurate and consistent, we have developed a methodology that considers various factors and incorporates statistical analysis.
- Performance: We test tires for their performance in various driving conditions, including wet and dry roads, snow and ice, and off-road terrain. We also consider handling, braking, noise, and ride comfort factors. These tests are conducted using standardized procedures, and the results are analyzed using statistical methods to determine the mean and standard deviation.
- Durability: We assess the durability of tires based on factors such as tread life, resistance to punctures and cuts, and sidewall strength. These tests are conducted using standardized procedures or data gathered from third-party websites where real users share their experiences with the products we are reviewing. We then analyze the results using statistical methods to determine the mean and standard deviation.
- Value: We consider the tire's price and compare it to its performance and durability to determine its overall value. We pay close attention to how long the tires last, their reported lifespan, and the ratio of those metrics to the price.
- Customer reviews: We consider the experiences and opinions of other drivers who have used the tire. We do our best to disregard what seems to be fake reviews (good or bad) and make judgment calls based on our ability to filter bogus reviews well. We are human; therefore, mistakes can be made. The best reviews we provide are the ones where we extensively test the products and share real-life experiences with our readers.
- Expert opinions: We consult industry experts and gather their insights and opinions on tires. An expert can even consist of a person with extensive knowledge of tire use and practical experience with them.
Our ratings are based on a scale of 1 to 5, with one being the lowest and five being the highest. We strive to provide detailed and comprehensive reviews that give drivers the information they need to make informed purchasing decisions. Overall, this methodology, which incorporates statistical analysis, allows us to provide accurate and reliable ratings for the tires we review on our site.
Best Tires for SUVs: Bottom Line
Finding a reliable set of tires for your SUV is vital to ensure a comfortable and safe ride in all-terrain and weather conditions. When choosing SUV tires, you must consider the tire size, traction, performance, and price to get the best deal that suits your vehicle's needs and budget. You can buy any of the tires mentioned above for SUVs to get back on the road safely and affordably.