How We Chose
Our selection process focused on the needs of US SUV drivers and fleet operators, prioritizing real-world safety, consistent wet grip, all-season reliability (including light snow), ride comfort, noise levels, treadwear durability, and overall value. We weighed independent tyre tests, user reviews, manufacturer data, and regional fitment, referencing UTQG treadwear grades and wet traction ratings where relevant. All tyres listed are widely available in the US and meet or exceed current safety standards.
1. Michelin Defender LTX M/S — The Benchmark for Everyday Versatility
Why it stands out
The Defender LTX M/S is a staple among SUV owners for its unbeatable mix of tread life, quiet ride, and reliable all-weather traction. Its Evertread compound is engineered for longevity without sacrificing wet grip or winter confidence, making it a top choice for family haulers and fleets alike.
Best for
- Drivers seeking all-season confidence and maximum lifespan
- Frequent long-distance commuters
- Light towing and occasional off-pavement use
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, highway touring
- Popular sizes: 16″–22″ SUV/truck fitments
- Strengths: Exceptional treadwear, quietness, wet/snow traction
- Trade-offs: Price premium over mid-tier brands
2. Continental TerrainContact H/T — Confident Wet & Dry Grip
Why it stands out
Continental’s TerrainContact H/T excels in wet braking and hydroplaning resistance, backed by a comfortable, quiet ride. Designed for modern SUVs, it combines daily driving refinement with robust construction for heavier vehicles.
Best for
- Urban/suburban drivers facing frequent rain
- High-mileage SUV owners
- Drivers valuing comfort and low road noise
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, highway
- Popular sizes: 16″–22″
- Strengths: Wet grip, comfort, treadwear warranty
- Trade-offs: Not for heavy off-road use
3. Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady — All-Season with Enhanced Snow Traction
Why it stands out
This tyre distinguishes itself with the 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) rating, providing superior traction in light winter conditions without a dedicated winter tyre. Its soybean oil-infused tread maintains flexibility in cold, while offering year-round comfort.
Best for
- Drivers in regions with unpredictable weather
- Those who want winter capability without swapping tyres
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, severe snow certified
- Popular sizes: 16″–20″
- Strengths: Snow grip, wet handling, comfort
- Trade-offs: Slightly shorter tread life than top touring models
4. Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail — Adventurous Daily Driver
Why it stands out
The Wildpeak A/T Trail bridges the gap between daily comfort and light off-road capability. Its aggressive tread is mild enough for smooth highways, yet rugged enough for gravel, light trails, and winter weather, making it a favorite for adventurous SUV drivers.
Best for
- Drivers who split time between city and outdoor pursuits
- Active families and weekend explorers
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-terrain, all-season (3PMSF rated)
- Popular sizes: 16″–20″
- Strengths: Off-pavement traction, durability, snow performance
- Trade-offs: Slightly higher road noise
5. Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra — Quiet Comfort for Modern SUVs
Why it stands out
The Alenza AS Ultra is engineered for luxury SUVs, delivering a plush, quiet ride and stable handling. Its advanced tread compound boosts wet performance, while its noise-reducing pattern impresses in city and highway driving.
Best for
- Drivers prioritizing comfort and cabin quietness
- Luxury and premium SUV owners
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, premium touring
- Popular sizes: 17″–22″
- Strengths: Ride refinement, wet grip, low noise
- Trade-offs: Not suitable for frequent off-road use
6. Hankook Dynapro HP2 RA33 — Value-Driven Everyday Performer
Why it stands out
This Hankook model offers a strong balance of price, performance, and tread life. Its silica-enhanced compound ensures reliable dry and wet handling, making it a smart pick for budget-conscious SUV owners who don’t want to compromise on safety.
Best for
- Value shoppers
- Families and fleets looking for dependable all-weather traction
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, touring
- Popular sizes: 16″–20″
- Strengths: Affordability, wet/dry grip, treadwear
- Trade-offs: Average snow traction
7. Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II — Eco-Focused Touring
Why it stands out
Pirelli’s Verde All Season Plus II is designed for drivers seeking low rolling resistance and improved fuel efficiency. It also delivers a comfortable ride and balanced performance across seasons, with an emphasis on environmental responsibility.
Best for
- Eco-conscious drivers
- Long-distance commuters
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, touring
- Popular sizes: 16″–22″
- Strengths: Fuel economy, comfort, quiet ride
- Trade-offs: Not for off-road or severe winter use
8. Cooper Endeavor Plus — Reliable Performance on a Budget
Why it stands out
Cooper’s Endeavor Plus brings solid all-around performance at an accessible price point. Its tread design maximizes water evacuation, reducing hydroplaning risk, and maintains consistent grip throughout the life of the tyre.
Best for
- Budget-conscious drivers
- Mid-size SUV owners
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season
- Popular sizes: 16″–20″
- Strengths: Value, wet traction, treadwear
- Trade-offs: Limited winter performance
9. Yokohama Geolandar CV G058 — Balanced Handling & Longevity
Why it stands out
Yokohama’s Geolandar CV G058 is tailored for crossover and SUV drivers wanting responsive handling, long mileage, and year-round dependability. Its asymmetric tread pattern maintains stability in all conditions, with a focus on low rolling resistance and even wear.
Best for
- Daily commuters
- Family SUVs and crossovers
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season, touring
- Popular sizes: 16″–20″
- Strengths: Handling, tread life, quiet ride
- Trade-offs: Not designed for off-road or deep snow
Buying Tips
To get the most from your new SUV tyres, consider these essentials:
- Fitment: Match your tyre size, load, and speed rating to your vehicle’s requirements. Check your owner’s manual or door placard.
- Speed/Load Index: Choose tyres that meet or exceed the manufacturer’s specified ratings, especially for heavier SUVs or towing.
- Tyre Rotations: Rotate tyres every 5,000–8,000 miles to promote even wear and extend lifespan.
- Storage: If storing seasonally, keep tyres in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and chemicals.
- Alignment: Have your alignment checked with every new set to prevent premature wear or handling issues.
Verdict
Choosing the right all-season tyre for your SUV depends on your priorities. The Michelin Defender LTX M/S is the top all-rounder for those seeking maximum tread life and comfort. Continental TerrainContact H/T and Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra are great for drivers demanding excellent wet performance and quietness. Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady and Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail offer added capability for winter or light off-road use. For value-focused buyers, Hankook Dynapro HP2 RA33 and Cooper Endeavor Plus provide dependable performance without breaking the bank. Eco-minded drivers will appreciate the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II, while Yokohama Geolandar CV G058 stands out for balanced handling and durability. Assess your driving environment, budget, and comfort preferences to find your perfect fit.
If most of my driving is highway miles with occasional towing, is the price premium for the Defender LTX really justified versus a more budget-friendly all-season option?
If you do a lot of highway driving and sometimes tow, the Defender LTX’s higher price can be justified by its excellent durability, strong highway performance, and superior towing stability. Cheaper all-seasons might save money upfront, but may not offer the same tread life or towing confidence, especially over long distances.
Does the Michelin Defender LTX M/S cost significantly more than the Continental TerrainContact H/T, and is the longer tread life worth the extra price for most SUV drivers?
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S typically costs a bit more than the Continental TerrainContact H/T, with price differences usually ranging from $10 to $30 per tire depending on size. For many SUV drivers who prioritize long tread life and lower long-term replacement costs, the Defender’s extended treadwear can justify the higher initial investment.
Are these tyres easy to find at big retailers, or do you usually have to special order some of the popular sizes mentioned for larger SUVs?
Most of the tyres featured in the article are available at major retailers, especially in common SUV sizes. However, if you have a larger SUV or need a less common size, some options might need to be special ordered. Checking with the retailer in advance can help confirm availability for your specific tyre size.
You mention many of these all-season tyres have good wet and light snow traction, but do any of them hold up in areas that get occasional heavy snowfall, or would I need a separate set for winter?
Most all-season tyres in the article are designed for wet roads and light snow, but they may not offer enough grip in areas with occasional heavy snowfall. For those conditions, a dedicated set of winter tyres is recommended to ensure safety and traction during harsher winter weather.
Do any of these top picks tend to sell out during certain times of year, like before winter, or are they readily available whenever you need them?
Some of the top all-season tyres featured in the article can experience higher demand and may sell out before winter or summer, as drivers prepare for changing road conditions. Availability often depends on brand and region, so it’s a good idea to shop early, especially during seasonal transitions, to secure your preferred tyres.
Does the Michelin Defender LTX M/S provide noticeably better tread life than the Continental TerrainContact H/T if most of my driving is highway miles in the Northeast?
For mostly highway driving in the Northeast, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S is often recognized for its excellent tread life and may last longer than the Continental TerrainContact H/T under these conditions. Michelin’s tread compounds are engineered for durability, especially on highways, making it a strong choice if long tread life is your top priority.
For someone planning to use their SUV for both commuting and occasional light off-road trips, which tire from your list would be the most practical compromise?
For a mix of commuting and occasional light off-roading, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 SUV is a practical choice from our list. It balances comfortable highway driving with enough traction and durability for light off-road conditions, making it a versatile all-season tire for your needs.