How We Chose
Our selection of the best all-terrain tyres for US SUVs is based on a balance of real-world performance and expert evaluation. We considered:
- Safety: Braking and handling in varied conditions
- Wet Grip: Resistance to hydroplaning and wet traction
- Snow Capability: Traction on light to moderate snow (where relevant)
- Comfort/Noise: Ride quality and cabin noise
- Durability: Tread life, chip resistance, and warranty
- Economy: Price per mile and fuel efficiency
- Regulatory Ratings: UTQG and US-specific testing
1. Michelin LTX A/T2 — Refined All-Terrain for Daily Drivers
Why it stands out
The LTX A/T2 offers a rare blend of off-road durability, smooth on-road comfort, and extended tread life. Michelin’s compound and tread design deliver confident handling on gravel, dirt, and pavement without excessive noise or harshness.
Best for
- Drivers prioritizing highway comfort but needing real off-road capability
- Fleets seeking long treadwear
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, all-terrain
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 275/60R20, 245/75R16
- Strengths: Treadwear, low noise, wet grip
- Trade-offs: Not for extreme mud or deep snow
2. BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A — Everyday Versatility
Why it stands out
Designed for SUVs and crossovers, the Trail-Terrain T/A provides solid traction on dirt and gravel while maintaining a quiet, composed ride on highways. Its 3PMSF marking means it’s winter rated, adding all-year confidence.
Best for
- Urban drivers who occasionally venture off pavement
- All-season adventure seekers
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, all-terrain, 3PMSF
- Popular sizes: 265/65R17, 245/60R18
- Strengths: Light snow performance, ride comfort
- Trade-offs: Not as aggressive as hardcore off-road tyres
3. Falken WildPeak A/T Trail — Balanced for City and Backroads
Why it stands out
The WildPeak A/T Trail is engineered for crossovers and lighter SUVs, blending all-terrain confidence with on-road civility. The silica-rich compound enhances wet grip and tread longevity, while the tread pattern manages snow and light off-road use.
Best for
- Daily drivers who want off-road styling and real-world versatility
- Light off-road and winter conditions
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, all-terrain, 3PMSF
- Popular sizes: 235/65R17, 225/60R18
- Strengths: Wet/snow grip, quiet ride
- Trade-offs: Not designed for heavy off-road abuse
4. Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar — Added Protection
Why it stands out
Reinforced with Kevlar, this tyre is built for toughness and puncture resistance. It handles dirt, rocks, and light mud with ease, while providing secure handling in wet and dry conditions. The tread is optimized for even wear and long mileage.
Best for
- Adventurous drivers needing extra sidewall protection
- Mixed on/off-road use
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, all-terrain, 3PMSF
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 275/55R20
- Strengths: Puncture resistance, wet braking
- Trade-offs: Slightly higher noise on pavement
5. General Grabber APT — Value and Everyday Practicality
Why it stands out
The Grabber APT offers a competitive balance of price, performance, and durability. Designed for SUVs that split time between highways and unpaved roads, it delivers stable handling and reliable wet traction at a lower cost point.
Best for
- Budget-minded SUV owners
- Occasional light off-roading
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, all-terrain, 3PMSF
- Popular sizes: 245/70R17, 265/65R18
- Strengths: Affordability, comfort, warranty
- Trade-offs: Not for aggressive trail use
6. Toyo Open Country A/T III — Aggressive Traction, All-Weather Confidence
Why it stands out
The Open Country A/T III is known for its aggressive tread and multi-wave sipes, delivering enhanced grip in mud, snow, and rain. The tread compound is tuned for long mileage, and the block design minimizes road noise for an aggressive tyre.
Best for
- Drivers needing real off-road traction without sacrificing daily usability
- All-weather regional climates
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, all-terrain, 3PMSF
- Popular sizes: 265/70R17, 275/60R20
- Strengths: Mud/snow grip, tread life
- Trade-offs: Heavier than road-focused tyres
7. Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus — Modern Comfort Meets Ruggedness
Why it stands out
Pirelli’s Scorpion All Terrain Plus balances a contemporary look with true all-terrain capability. Its compound and design offer quiet highway driving, good wet handling, and reliable traction on dirt and gravel. The 3PMSF rating adds confidence in wintery conditions.
Best for
- Drivers who want stylish looks and competent off-road performance
- Mixed-use SUVs
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, all-terrain, 3PMSF
- Popular sizes: 275/55R20, 265/70R17
- Strengths: Road manners, winter-rated
- Trade-offs: Slightly firmer ride
8. Nexen Roadian ATX — Affordable All-Terrain with Winter Chops
Why it stands out
The Roadian ATX delivers impressive performance for its price. It comes with a 3PMSF rating for true winter capability and a tread designed for even wear and comfort. Good warranty support makes it a value pick for budget-conscious SUV owners.
Best for
- Budget shoppers in snowy regions
- Drivers seeking a reliable all-rounder
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, all-terrain, 3PMSF
- Popular sizes: 265/70R16, 245/65R17
- Strengths: Price, snow traction, warranty
- Trade-offs: Average mud traction
9. Continental CrossContact LX25 — Comfort-Focused, Mild All-Terrain
Why it stands out
While not as aggressive as others on this list, the CrossContact LX25 is ideal for drivers spending most of their time on pavement but wanting occasional off-road confidence. It’s quiet, fuel-efficient, and offers strong wet handling for an all-terrain tyre.
Best for
- City and suburban SUV drivers
- Occasional gravel or unpaved road use
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, light all-terrain
- Popular sizes: 255/60R18, 235/65R17
- Strengths: Ride comfort, wet grip, treadwear
- Trade-offs: Not for aggressive trails or deep snow
Buying Tips
- Fitment: Always match tyre size, speed, and load ratings to your SUV manufacturer’s recommendations. Incorrect fitment can affect safety, handling, and warranty.
- Speed/Load Index: Choose tyres that meet or exceed your vehicle’s requirements, especially for towing or carrying heavy loads.
- Rotations: Rotate all-terrain tyres every 5,000–7,500 miles to promote even wear and extend service life.
- Storage: Store unused tyres in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and chemicals. If storing mounted, reduce pressure to avoid flat-spotting.
- Alignment: Have your alignment checked when installing new tyres or if you notice uneven wear. Off-road use can accelerate misalignment.
Verdict
Choosing the best all-terrain tyre for your US SUV depends on your priorities:
- For mostly highway driving with occasional off-road: Michelin LTX A/T2, Continental CrossContact LX25, or Falken WildPeak A/T Trail offer comfort and efficiency.
- For balanced daily driving and adventure: BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A, Toyo Open Country A/T III, or Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus provide a mix of road manners and off-road grip.
- For value and winter capability: General Grabber APT and Nexen Roadian ATX deliver dependable performance on a budget.
- For maximum protection or tougher trails: Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar stands out for its durability and sidewall strength.
Always consider your typical terrain, weather, and driving style before making a final selection. The right tyre will deliver safety, confidence, and value mile after mile.
I noticed the Michelin LTX A/T2 is recommended for drivers who prioritize highway comfort but need real off-road capability. How does its tread life actually compare to the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A in everyday use?
The Michelin LTX A/T2 is well known for its long tread life, often outlasting many competitors in regular highway use. However, the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A is also designed for durability and has comparable treadwear ratings. In everyday driving, both should provide excellent longevity, but the Michelin may have a slight edge in tread life, especially with mostly highway miles.
If I need to replace my tires before winter sets in, is there a significant wait time or supply issue with any of the popular sizes mentioned, like 265/70R17?
For the 265/70R17 size, most major brands have maintained steady supply, but demand typically increases before winter. While there haven’t been widespread shortages, some popular all-terrain models can sell out quickly. It’s a good idea to contact your local dealers soon and consider placing an order early to avoid any possible delays.
You mentioned the Michelin LTX A/T2 isn’t for extreme mud or deep snow. For someone in the Northeast who sees some heavy winter storms, is there an all-terrain from your list you’d rank highest for severe snow traction?
For harsh Northeast winters with heavy snow, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 from the list stands out for its severe snow traction. It carries the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, signifying strong performance in deep snow and icy conditions—better suited for your needs than the Michelin LTX A/T2.
Does the Michelin LTX A/T2 perform noticeably better in wet conditions than the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A, especially for drivers dealing with heavy summer rain? I’m weighing wet grip versus year-round versatility.
The Michelin LTX A/T2 generally offers stronger wet traction than the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A, especially in heavy rain. Its tread design and compound are optimized for wet grip, which can boost driver confidence during summer storms. However, the BFGoodrich may offer a slight edge in all-season versatility and winter traction. If wet performance is your top concern, the Michelin is a solid choice.
If I mostly drive around the city but want to be ready for occasional forest tracks, should I go for a less aggressive tire or is it worth getting full all-terrain capability just in case?
Since you mainly drive in the city but occasionally take forest tracks, a less aggressive all-terrain tire with a highway-friendly tread is usually a good choice. These offer a comfortable, quiet ride on pavement while still giving you enough grip for those off-road moments. Full all-terrain tires can be noisier and less efficient for daily city use, so they’re best reserved for frequent off-road driving.
The article mentions chip resistance as a factor in durability—can you explain how much of an issue this is for casual off-roading on gravel roads?
Chip resistance mainly matters when driving on rough, rocky surfaces where sharp stones can break off small bits of rubber from the tyre tread. For casual off-roading on gravel roads, it’s usually less of a problem, but tyres with good chip resistance will generally last longer and maintain their traction better in those conditions.
Does the Michelin LTX A/T2 perform noticeably better in wet conditions than the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A, considering both are highlighted for their wet grip and comfort?
The Michelin LTX A/T2 is slightly ahead in wet conditions, offering a bit more traction and stability compared to the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A. Both are strong performers for wet grip and comfort, but the Michelin typically provides more confident handling and shorter stopping distances when roads are slick.
Are there any options on this list that would be especially budget-friendly without sacrificing too much in terms of safety and performance for mostly on-road driving?
Based on the list, the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W and Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S are generally considered budget-friendly while still offering good safety and on-road performance. Both provide reliable traction, comfort, and durability without a high price tag, making them solid options for mostly on-road driving.
I noticed the Michelin LTX A/T2 isn’t recommended for deep snow. If I travel to the mountains a few times a year, should I look for a different tire, or would carrying chains be enough?
If your mountain trips involve frequent or heavy snow, it’s best to consider a tire with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) rating for better winter traction. However, if your visits are occasional and you’re comfortable using chains when needed, the Michelin LTX A/T2 with chains could be sufficient. Always check local regulations, as some areas require snow-rated tires during winter months.
Are any of these tires particularly quick to order and install at most tire shops, or should I expect a wait for certain sizes like the 275/60R20 mentioned for the LTX A/T2?
For popular sizes like 275/60R20, especially for well-known models like the Michelin LTX A/T2, most large tire shops tend to keep them in stock, so you can usually get them quickly. However, availability can vary by location and season, so calling ahead to confirm is a good idea.
For someone who mostly drives highways but occasionally visits muddy campsites, would the Michelin LTX A/T2 be enough, or should I look for a model that handles deeper mud better?
The Michelin LTX A/T2 is excellent for highway comfort and light off-road use, including mildly muddy campsites. However, if you expect to encounter deep or very slick mud often, you might want to consider a more aggressive all-terrain or mud-terrain tire with larger tread gaps for better traction in those conditions.
Between the options listed, which tire would be the most economical for someone who puts a lot of miles on their SUV annually and wants to maximize tread life?
If maximizing tread life is your main priority for high annual mileage, the Michelin LTX A/T2 from the list stands out. It’s known for its excellent durability and longer treadwear compared to many other all-terrain tires, making it a very economical choice over time.
If my SUV mostly sees city use with occasional trips on gravel backroads, is the noise difference between these tires noticeable inside the cabin?
For mostly city driving with just occasional gravel road use, you might notice a slight increase in road noise with all-terrain tires compared to standard highway tires, particularly at higher speeds. However, many modern all-terrain models on the list are designed to keep cabin noise minimal, so the difference is often subtle and manageable for most drivers.
For someone who mostly drives highways but wants the option to explore rough backroads a few times a year, which of these tires balances quiet ride and occasional off-road reliability best?
For your needs, the Michelin LTX A/T2 and the Continental TerrainContact A/T stand out. Both offer a quiet, comfortable ride on highways but are still dependable for light off-road adventures. They strike a good balance between daily comfort and occasional backroad reliability.
If my SUV mostly sees city use but I do some monthly camping on gravel roads, would the Falken WildPeak A/T Trail be overkill or a smart choice?
The Falken WildPeak A/T Trail strikes a good balance for your needs. It’s designed for mostly on-road driving but provides enough traction for occasional gravel and light off-road use, like monthly camping trips. It shouldn’t feel like overkill, and you’ll still enjoy a comfortable city ride with the added confidence when heading out on rougher terrain.
If I mostly drive in areas with a lot of rain but only rarely encounter snow, which of these recommended tyres would offer the best wet grip for a mid-size SUV?
For mostly rainy conditions, the Michelin LTX A/T2 and Continental TerrainContact A/T are standout choices from the list. Both are highly rated for their wet grip, providing strong traction and safety on wet roads, while still offering capable performance for occasional off-road use.
I saw that some of these tires come in sizes like 265/70R17 and 245/60R18. If my SUV’s current tires are a slightly different size, is it safe to swap to one of these popular options?
Switching to a tire size that differs from your SUV’s original specs can affect speedometer accuracy, handling, and clearance. Always check your owner’s manual or consult a tire professional to ensure any new size is compatible with your vehicle’s requirements before making a swap.
If I drive mostly on highways but sometimes hit backroads in winter, is the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A’s 3PMSF rating enough for heavy snow, or should I consider a dedicated winter tire?
The BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A’s 3PMSF rating means it’s suitable for light to moderate winter conditions, offering good traction on snow. However, for frequent driving in heavy snow or icy conditions, a dedicated winter tire will provide better grip, safety, and handling. Consider winter tires if you expect regular or severe snow and ice during your drives.
If pricing is a major concern, which tire from your recommendations would offer the best balance between cost and durability for a daily driver?
If pricing is a priority, the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W stands out for its affordability and durability. It provides dependable performance for daily driving while keeping costs reasonable, making it a solid choice if you want a good balance between budget and long-lasting tread life.
For someone on a tight budget, which tire from your list would offer the best balance of fuel efficiency and initial purchase price without sacrificing too much in terms of comfort?
If you’re looking for the best budget-friendly option from our list that doesn’t compromise too much on comfort or fuel efficiency, consider the Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail. It’s known for its reasonable price, solid on-road manners, and relatively low rolling resistance, making it a practical pick for those watching expenses.