How We Chose
Our selection of the top all-terrain tyres for US SUVs is based on a comprehensive evaluation of safety (including wet and dry grip), off-road traction, ride comfort, noise levels, durability, and value for money. We considered independent test data, owner feedback, and manufacturer claims. UTQG ratings and real-world performance weighed heavily, alongside compatibility with popular SUV sizes. All picks are suitable for year-round use unless otherwise noted.
1. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 — Legendary All-Rounder
Why it stands out
The KO2 is an icon among all-terrain tyres, famed for its rugged construction and balanced performance. It delivers reliable grip on dirt, gravel, sand, and snow, while remaining composed on highways. Reinforced sidewalls and a tough tread resist chips and punctures, making it a top choice for adventurers and daily drivers alike.
Best for
- Drivers seeking proven off-road capability without sacrificing on-road comfort
- Overlanding and rural commutes
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF)
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 275/65R18, 285/70R17
- Strengths: Off-road traction, durability, snow grip
- Trade-offs: Can be noisy at highway speeds, slightly firm ride
2. Michelin LTX A/T2 — Refined Durability
Why it stands out
Michelin’s LTX A/T2 is engineered for longevity and balanced use. It excels in tread life, delivering a quiet, comfortable ride with reliable grip on light trails and highways. Its advanced compound resists chipping on gravel, making it a favorite for high-mileage SUV owners and fleets.
Best for
- Drivers prioritizing comfort and low noise
- High-mileage daily drivers
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season
- Popular sizes: 265/65R18, 275/60R20, 245/75R16
- Strengths: Treadwear, comfort, fuel efficiency
- Trade-offs: Less aggressive off-road than others on this list
3. Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT — Value Trail Performer
Why it stands out
This Goodyear model offers a compelling combination of off-road traction and on-road stability at an accessible price point. The tread pattern is optimized for light mud and gravel, while siping maintains grip in wet conditions. A great entry point for drivers new to all-terrain tyres.
Best for
- Budget-conscious SUV owners
- Weekend off-roaders and city drivers
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season
- Popular sizes: 265/70R16, 245/75R16, 265/65R17
- Strengths: Affordability, balanced performance
- Trade-offs: Not 3PMSF rated, moderate snow capability
4. Falken WildPeak A/T3W — Aggressive All-Weather Grip
Why it stands out
The WildPeak A/T3W is a favorite for drivers who face harsh weather and diverse terrain. Its deep tread and silica-rich compound provide excellent wet and snow traction (3PMSF certified), while rugged shoulder blocks enhance off-road confidence. Surprisingly quiet for such an aggressive tread.
Best for
- Drivers needing true all-weather capability
- Snowy or mountainous regions
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-weather, Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF)
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 275/60R20, 285/70R17
- Strengths: Snow/wet traction, off-road confidence, warranty
- Trade-offs: Slightly heavier than some competitors
5. Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S — Balanced Versatility
Why it stands out
Cooper’s AT3 4S is engineered for versatility, excelling on highways and backroads alike. The adaptive tread delivers secure handling in the rain and light snow, while a durable construction withstands rough surfaces. It’s a well-rounded pick for daily drivers with occasional off-road needs.
Best for
- Urban/suburban drivers who venture off-road occasionally
- Year-round daily use
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF)
- Popular sizes: 265/70R16, 275/55R20, 245/65R17
- Strengths: Quiet ride, wet/snow performance
- Trade-offs: Not as aggressive off-road as KO2 or WildPeak
6. Toyo Open Country A/T III — Premium All-Terrain Control
Why it stands out
The Open Country A/T III strikes an impressive balance between off-road bite and on-road civility. Its tread design disperses water effectively, while staggered shoulder lugs dig into loose surfaces. The ride is refined for daily commuting, making it a premium choice for versatile SUV owners.
Best for
- Drivers seeking premium comfort with serious off-road potential
- Long road trips and varied climates
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF)
- Popular sizes: 265/65R17, 275/60R20, 285/70R17
- Strengths: Wet grip, low noise, off-road traction
- Trade-offs: Premium price
7. General Grabber A/TX — All-Terrain Value and Comfort
Why it stands out
General’s Grabber A/TX offers impressive off-road credentials and a quiet highway ride at a moderate price. Its robust tread is snow-rated and performs well on sand, mud, and gravel. Road manners are above average for an all-terrain tyre, making it popular with family SUVs.
Best for
- Budget-conscious families
- Light to moderate off-roading
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF)
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 245/75R16, 285/70R17
- Strengths: Value, snow traction, comfort
- Trade-offs: Slightly less precise steering response
8. Nitto Terra Grappler G2 — Highway-Friendly Toughness
Why it stands out
Nitto’s Terra Grappler G2 is designed for drivers who want a tough, stylish tyre that remains composed on the highway. It boasts a long treadlife warranty and even wear in daily use, while still providing credible grip in light off-roading scenarios.
Best for
- Drivers who need durability and on-road comfort
- Occasional off-roaders
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 275/55R20, 285/70R17
- Strengths: Treadlife, quiet ride, even wear
- Trade-offs: Not 3PMSF, moderate snow capability
9. Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus — European Precision
Why it stands out
The Scorpion All Terrain Plus blends Italian engineering with rugged capability. Its tread is optimized for both on-road silence and off-road bite, and the tyre is 3PMSF rated for winter duty. It’s a refined option for drivers who want style and substance.
Best for
- Drivers who value ride quality and versatility
- Wintery or mixed climates
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF)
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 275/60R20, 245/70R17
- Strengths: Style, wet/snow grip, quiet highway ride
- Trade-offs: Not as aggressive off-road as some rivals
10. Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 — Everyday All-Terrain Versatility
Why it stands out
Yokohama’s Geolandar A/T G015 is a well-rounded choice for SUV drivers who want all-terrain looks and capability without losing daily comfort. Its tread design handles rain, light snow, and dirt roads well, while road noise is kept in check for long highway drives.
Best for
- Drivers balancing daily commuting with outdoor escapes
- Environments with variable weather
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season, Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF)
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 245/65R17, 275/55R20
- Strengths: Comfort, wet/snow traction, quietness
- Trade-offs: Less bite in deep mud or sand
Buying Tips
Choosing the right all-terrain tyre involves more than just tread patterns. Ensure the tyre fits your SUV’s wheel size and load/speed ratings. Consider your true off-road needs versus daily driving comfort. Regularly rotate tyres for even wear, check alignment after off-road excursions, and store spare sets in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Always consult your vehicle’s manual for recommended pressures and load limits.
Verdict
If your SUV splits its time between daily commuting and weekend adventures, tyres like the Falken WildPeak A/T3W, Toyo Open Country A/T III, or BFGoodrich KO2 provide the best blend of traction and durability. Comfort-first drivers should consider the Michelin LTX A/T2 or Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 for quieter, longer-lasting rides. Value seekers and families may find excellent fit in the General Grabber A/TX or Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT. For snow-prone regions, prioritize 3PMSF-rated models. Ultimately, your driving environment and preferences should guide the final choice—each tyre here is a leader in its category, ready to equip your SUV for whatever the road (or trail) brings.
Does the BFGoodrich KO2’s firm ride make a big difference if most of my driving is on highways, or would I still benefit from its off-road features occasionally?
If most of your driving is on highways, you might notice the BFGoodrich KO2 feels firmer and a bit noisier than standard highway tires. However, you’ll still benefit from its superior durability and off-road traction on occasional adventures. It’s a great choice if you value toughness and sometimes tackle rough terrain, but for everyday highway comfort alone, a less aggressive tire might suit you better.
Can you explain what the UTQG ratings actually mean when choosing between these top tyre picks, especially for someone who mostly drives in wet conditions?
UTQG ratings help compare tyres based on treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance. For wet conditions, focus on the traction grade, which ranges from AA (best) to C. A higher traction grade means better grip on wet roads. Treadwear shows how long a tyre might last, while temperature grade relates to heat resistance, but for wet driving, traction is the most important factor to consider.
Do any of these all-terrain tyres offer significant fuel efficiency advantages, or is that trade-off inherent to this category compared to highway-focused tyres?
All-terrain tyres generally sacrifice some fuel efficiency compared to highway-focused tyres due to their more aggressive tread patterns and heavier construction. While some models in the article aim to minimize rolling resistance, significant fuel savings are rare in this category. If maximizing fuel efficiency is your top priority, highway or touring tyres typically perform better.