The best all-terrain tires for SUVs aren't just marketing hype. We tested them in extreme winter conditions at temperatures from -7°C to -13°C to see which ones really deliver when things get tough.
SUV owners have always struggled to find tires that work well on both highways and snowy trails. Our detailed testing of the Mickey Thompson Baja Boss AT, BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO3, Toyo Open Country AT III, Nokian Outpost nAT, and Falken Wildpeak AT4W against winter tires shows which ones actually live up to their claims.
Our findings stand out because they're backed by solid data. We learned about tire performance from over 3.3 billion reported miles through 251,189 consumer surveys that covered 776 different tire models since 1997. This exceptional research helps us understand which top-rated all-terrain tires deliver results in conditions of all types.
It's worth mentioning that we selected all-terrain tires with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certification. Quebec and other regions require this certification during winter months. This certification helps separate casual all-terrain tires from those engineered specifically to handle serious winter conditions.
We tested LT 265/70 R17 tires at our controlled snow and ice facility - a size many SUV owners choose. The chunky, rugged tread patterns you'll find on the best all-terrain tires for snow proved especially effective when we tested traction in sand, mud, and loose gravel.
Pirelli's specialized passenger car tire delivers outstanding performance in all weather conditions. This tire works better than traditional all-season options, especially during harsh winter weather.
The Cinturato WeatherActive uses an innovative V-formation directional tread pattern that excels in any weather condition. The tire's core features include:
A zig-zag central groove that improves wet handling and snow traction
'Trumpet' shaped lateral grooves that quickly clear water and slush
Deep, continuous siping that stays 66% visible even after 90% wear
Three Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certification that proves severe winter capability
A rigid 3-rib block design that provides lateral stability and promotes even wear
The tire's innovative polymer/resin compound makes it unique. This technology stays flexible across many temperatures and balances snow performance with wet conditions without reducing longevity.
SUV owners looking for reliable winter traction will find impressive capabilities in the Cinturato WeatherActive. Consumer tests show high ratings - 9.1 for light snow traction, 8.7 for deep snow performance, and 8.3 for ice traction.
The tire's narrow, elongated contact patch helps deliver great snow performance and promotes even wear. The high connections between grooves also improve wet handling and braking on snowy roads.
Drivers feel confident in severe winter conditions. One owner said, "I never once felt like I would lose control in these terrible winter conditions". The tire maintains good traction even as it wears down, which helps with long-term winter reliability.
The Cinturato WeatherActive provides excellent comfort on paved roads beyond its all-weather capabilities. Road noise and vibrations decrease thanks to the directional tread pattern, which creates a peaceful driving experience.
Consumer ratings back up the comfort claims with a 9.2 score for ride quality and 8.8 for noise reduction. A customer noted, "The ride is also very comfortable. Road imperfections are muted nicely, and the cabin stays calm and quiet".
The tire handles responsively in dry conditions, scoring 9.4 for corner stability and dry traction. Wet performance stands out with excellent hydroplaning resistance and secure cornering, supported by near-perfect wet traction scores.
The Cinturato WeatherActive works well in light off-road situations despite its on-road focus. Water and slush flow away easily through the trumpet-shaped lateral grooves, which reduces hydroplaning risk on slippery surfaces.
Multiple biting edges created by the deep, continuous siping grip various surfaces effectively. These features provide decent traction for occasional light off-road use, though the tire isn't built for rough terrain.
This premium all-weather tire's price reflects its advanced technology. Current prices range from $218.66 to $314.34 per tire, varying by size and retailer.
The 60,000-mile limited treadwear warranty makes this tire a good long-term value since you won't need separate summer and winter tires.
Passenger car owners who want one tire solution for year-round confident performance should consider the Cinturato WeatherActive. This tire works great for drivers in four-season regions that don't get enough snow to require dedicated winter tires.
Drivers who value comfort, all-weather performance, and long-term value will enjoy this tire most. One happy owner summed it up: "The WeatherActive tires offer a well-rounded package. They look sharp, handle well, feel great to drive on, and perform reliably in all weather conditions".
Michelin has created something special with the CrossClimate2. Many tire experts call it a true year-round solution that works well across seasons without the usual drawbacks of regular all-season tires.
The CrossClimate2's distinctive V-formation tread pattern works with a new rubber compound. This combo changes what drivers can get from an all-weather tire. The design brings together:
PIANO Noise Reduction Tuning technology that cuts road noise by carefully placing tread blocks to stop sound patterns
Thermal Adaptive Compound that stays flexible at extreme temperatures to keep grip in cold weather
Robust shoulder blocks and interconnected grooves that boost both dry handling and wet evacuation
3PMSF certification that shows real winter capability
The tire's V-shaped tread also keeps its biting edges through its lifetime, which gives consistent performance from new to fully worn.
The CrossClimate2 changes what an all-season tire can do in winter. It outperforms about half of the dedicated winter tires that were tested, which shows how effective the 3PMSF certification really is.
Deep snow and ice handling are standout features. The tire's interconnected grooves push away snow and slush while full-depth sipes give extra biting edges for traction. Testers have consistently noticed that the tire can:
Keep reliable traction on snow-packed roads
Maintain stability when it starts to slip
Give confidence for winter driving
This tire might not match the best dedicated winter tires in the harshest conditions, but it comes impressively close while working well year-round.
Michelin's PIANO technology makes the CrossClimate2 one of the quietest all-weather tires available. The tire stays comfortable and quiet on paved surfaces for daily commuting.
Regular highway users will find this tire handles responsively in both wet and dry conditions. The balanced compound means consistent performance from hot summer roads to cold winter mornings.
The CrossClimate2 works best on paved roads but handles light off-road situations well. Gravel roads, packed dirt paths, and occasionally muddy terrain don't pose problems.
The tire's shoulder block design provides decent grip on loose surfaces, though serious off-road use wasn't its intended purpose. SUV owners who mostly drive on highways but occasionally venture off-pavement will find it capable enough.
The CrossClimate2 costs between $113 and $492 per tire, depending on size. This premium price comes with a 60,000-mile tread life warranty, which helps justify the cost.
Compared to buying separate summer and winter tire sets, this single-tire solution can save money over time. The tire can last up to 15,000 miles longer than some competitors, adding extra value.
This tire suits drivers in regions with variable weather who need year-round performance without switching tires seasonally. It works particularly well for:
Commuters who face occasional winter weather
Drivers who want premium comfort and low noise
Those seeking strong wet and dry handling
SUV owners who value longevity and warranty protection
The CrossClimate2 delivers on its promise of true all-weather capability without the compromises that typically come with all-season designs.
Bridgestone enters the all-weather tire market with the WeatherPeak. This tire brings together year-round dependability and impressive snow performance for drivers looking beyond traditional all-season options.
The WeatherPeak stands out with its three-dimensional, full-depth siping technology. These sipes work together with other advanced features:
Snow Vices in the shoulder blocks that dig into snow for additional traction
Evolving sipes that open up as the tire wears, maintaining snow grip over time
3PMSF certification that confirms real winter capability
An optimized tread compound that stays flexible in cold temperatures
Bridgestone designed this tire to give consistent all-weather performance throughout its entire lifespan, not just when new.
Consumer ratings give the WeatherPeak scores of 9-10 out of 10 for snow performance. The tire's combination of technologies creates reliable winter traction:
Full-depth 3D sipes maintain biting edges even as tread wears
Snow Vices in shoulder blocks improve traction when turning
The evolving sipe design keeps winter performance consistent over time
Drivers report feeling confident in both light snow and deeper accumulations. The tire's design helps it perform well in various winter conditions without the need for dedicated winter tires.
The WeatherPeak delivers smooth, comfortable daily driving. Consumer reviews consistently praise its quiet operation and ability to absorb road imperfections.
The tire balances responsiveness with comfort effectively. It handles highway speeds confidently while remaining composed over rough pavement. Most drivers notice the tire feels refined for everyday use.
While not designed for aggressive off-road use, the WeatherPeak handles light-duty situations adequately. Gravel roads, construction zones, and occasional unpaved surfaces don't overwhelm this tire.
The sidewall construction provides reasonable protection against minor impacts. However, drivers who regularly venture off-road should consider a more aggressive all-terrain option.
The WeatherPeak ranges from $173 to $345 per tire, depending on size. What sets this tire apart is its 70,000-mile limited treadwear warranty - one of the longest in the all-weather category.
This extended warranty makes the WeatherPeak an excellent value proposition. The cost-per-mile calculation often favors this tire over competitors with shorter warranties.
The WeatherPeak fits drivers of coupes, sedans, SUVs, and minivans who want year-round confidence. It works especially well for:
Daily commuters in variable climates
Families wanting safety in all weather conditions
Drivers prioritizing long tread life and warranty coverage
Those who want winter capability without seasonal tire changes
The tire's combination of winter performance, everyday comfort, and industry-leading warranty makes it a practical choice for many drivers.
Goodyear developed the Assurance WeatherReady as a comprehensive all-weather solution. The tire combines advanced technologies to handle everything from summer heat to winter storms.
The WeatherReady incorporates Goodyear's Weather Reactive Technology, which adapts to changing conditions. Key features include:
Evolving Traction Grooves that maintain their depth as the tire wears
A soy-based tread compound that stays flexible in cold temperatures
Sweeping tread grooves designed to clear water and snow efficiently
3PMSF certification confirming severe winter performance
The tire's asymmetric tread pattern balances dry handling with wet and winter traction effectively.
Consumer reviews give the WeatherReady scores of 9-10 out of 10 for both snow and deep snow performance. The tire excels in winter conditions through:
The soy-based compound that remains pliable when temperatures drop
Evolving Traction Grooves that provide consistent grip throughout the tire's life
Wide sweeping grooves that channel away slush and snow
Drivers report that the WeatherReady inspires confidence on snow-covered roads. The tire's winter capability makes it a viable alternative to dedicated winter tires for many climates.
The WeatherReady provides a comfortable, composed ride for daily driving. Road noise stays minimal, and the tire absorbs bumps and imperfections smoothly.
Handling feels precise in both wet and dry conditions. The asymmetric tread pattern gives responsive steering feedback while maintaining comfort over long distances.
Light off-road use doesn't faze the WeatherReady. The tire handles gravel roads, dirt paths, and light mud adequately for occasional adventures.
The tire's focus remains on-road performance, so serious off-road enthusiasts should look elsewhere. However, for mixed-use driving with occasional unpaved sections, it performs well enough.
The WeatherReady costs between $164 and $275 per tire, positioning it competitively in the all-weather segment. A 60,000-mile treadwear warranty backs the tire.
The combination of Goodyear's brand reputation, advanced technology, and comprehensive warranty makes this tire a solid value for its price point.
This tire fits family vehicles in regions with variable weather patterns. It works particularly well for:
Parents wanting safety in unpredictable conditions
Drivers who value wet weather confidence
Those looking for a trusted brand with proven technology
Commuters facing seasonal weather changes
The WeatherReady delivers peace of mind for drivers who need reliable all-weather performance without specialized tires.
Nokian, known for inventing the winter tire, brings that expertise to the Remedy WRG5. This all-weather tire combines Scandinavian winter technology with modern all-season requirements.
The WRG5 features Nokian's Triple Performance compound technology, developed for demanding conditions. Notable features include:
Aramid-reinforced sidewalls that protect against impacts and punctures
Dual Performance Siping that optimizes both dry handling and winter traction
A winter-optimized tread pattern derived from Nokian's winter tire expertise
3PMSF certification confirming genuine winter performance
Canola oil-based compound that stays flexible in extreme cold
Nokian designed this tire specifically to handle four-season driving without compromises.
Nokian's heritage in winter tires shows in the WRG5's snow performance. The tire handles winter conditions with confidence:
The canola oil compound maintains flexibility in sub-zero temperatures
Deep siping provides ample biting edges for snow and ice grip
The tread pattern effectively evacuates snow and slush
Drivers transitioning from dedicated winter tires often find the WRG5 provides comparable confidence in moderate winter conditions while performing better in other seasons.
The WRG5 delivers quiet, comfortable daily driving. The tire absorbs road imperfections smoothly and maintains low noise levels at highway speeds.
Handling feels balanced between comfort and responsiveness. The tire provides confident feedback without harsh ride characteristics, making it pleasant for commuting.
The aramid-reinforced sidewalls give the WRG5 extra durability for occasional off-pavement use. Light gravel, dirt roads, and construction zones don't present problems.
The added puncture resistance provides peace of mind when driving surfaces aren't ideal. However, like other all-weather tires, serious off-road use isn't its primary strength.
The WRG5 costs between $130 and $290 per tire, making it competitive in the all-weather segment. A 60,000-mile treadwear warranty provides additional value.
For drivers seeking winter expertise from a brand that invented the winter tire, the WRG5 offers strong value at this price point.
Nokian specifically designed the WRG5 with electric vehicles in mind, though it works well on conventional vehicles too. It suits:
EV owners wanting year-round confidence
Drivers in four-season climates with harsh winters
Those valuing sidewall protection and durability
Anyone seeking winter tire expertise in an all-weather package
The WRG5 brings Nokian's proven winter technology to drivers who want one tire for all seasons.
The Falken Wildpeak AT4W bridges the gap between rugged off-road capability and civilized highway manners. This tire gives SUV and truck owners serious versatility without major compromises.
Falken engineered the AT4W with technologies that perform in extreme conditions:
DURASPEC Sidewall Technology featuring a proprietary compound that resists punctures and bruises
Heat Diffuser technology in the lower sidewall that dissipates heat during heavy loads or towing
3D Canyon Sipes that interlock for stable handling while providing winter grip
Offset shoulder blocks that enhance off-road traction and stone ejection
3PMSF certification confirming winter capability
These features combine to create a tire that handles both off-road adventures and daily commuting effectively.
The AT4W's winter performance impresses for an all-terrain tire. The 3D Canyon Sipes provide substantial biting edges that grip snow and ice:
The interlocking sipe design maintains stability while cutting through snow
Deep tread voids evacuate snow and slush effectively
The rubber compound stays flexible in cold temperatures
Many owners run the AT4W year-round, even in snowy climates, thanks to its 3PMSF-certified winter capability.
Despite its aggressive appearance, the AT4W provides surprisingly refined highway manners. The tire runs quieter than many all-terrain competitors and offers a comfortable ride.
Handling on pavement feels stable and predictable. The tire's symmetric tread pattern promotes even wear, which helps maintain comfort and noise levels over time.
Off-road performance is where the AT4W shines. The tire tackles varied terrain with confidence:
Rock crawling benefits from the tough DURASPEC sidewall protection
Mud performance comes from the aggressive void pattern and offset shoulder blocks
Sand traction improves through the tire's ability to float rather than dig
Gravel and dirt roads feel controlled and predictable
The Heat Diffuser technology makes the AT4W particularly well-suited for towing and heavy loads on and off the pavement.
Falken offers the AT4W at competitive pricing for its capability level. The tire comes with a 65,000-mile warranty for non-LT sizes and 60,000 miles for LT sizes.
Considering the tire's versatility and durability, the price-to-performance ratio makes it an attractive option for SUV and truck owners.
The AT4W suits drivers who need genuine off-road capability without sacrificing daily drivability:
Overlanders and adventure seekers
Truck and SUV owners who tow frequently
Drivers in areas requiring occasional off-pavement travel
Those wanting one tire that handles all conditions confidently
The AT4W delivers the rugged capability serious users demand while remaining civilized enough for everyday use.
BFGoodrich continues its legendary all-terrain tire lineage with the KO3. This tire builds on decades of off-road racing success while meeting modern demands for comfort and winter performance.
The KO3 incorporates race-proven technology adapted for everyday use:
CoreGard Technology using split and bruise-resistant sidewall rubber compounds
Advanced Deflection Design that deflects sharp objects from the sidewall
Full-depth 3D sipes that lock together for stable handling and winter grip
Mud-Phobic bars in the shoulder that release mud for continued traction
3PMSF certification confirming genuine winter capability
Stone ejectors that help prevent stone drilling and protect the casing
BFGoodrich designed every element of this tire to handle demanding conditions while lasting longer than previous generations.
The KO3's snow performance exceeds expectations for such an aggressive all-terrain tire. The full-depth 3D sipes provide exceptional winter traction:
The interlocking sipes maintain block stability while maximizing biting edges
The rubber compound remains flexible in cold temperatures
Deep voids evacuate snow effectively, preventing pack-out
Drivers report confident handling in deep snow, ice, and mixed winter conditions. The 3PMSF certification accurately reflects the tire's real-world winter capability.
The KO3 runs quieter and more comfortably than its aggressive tread pattern suggests. BFGoodrich refined the tread design to reduce road noise while maintaining off-road capability.
Highway handling feels predictable and composed. The tire tracks straight at speed and provides good feedback through the steering without harshness.
Off-road performance defines the KO3's character. The tire excels in every type of terrain:
Rock crawling benefits from the thick, reinforced sidewalls and aggressive tread
Mud performance improves through the Mud-Phobic bars that prevent pack-out
Sand traction comes from the tire's ability to maintain flotation
Trail riding feels controlled thanks to the predictable traction characteristics
The CoreGard sidewall technology provides confidence when traversing sharp rocks and debris that would damage lesser tires.
The KO3 ranges from $189.99 to $760.99 per tire depending on size, reflecting its premium positioning. A 50,000-mile treadwear warranty backs the tire.
For serious off-road enthusiasts who also daily drive their vehicles, the KO3's capability and durability justify its premium price.
The KO3 targets drivers who demand maximum off-road capability without completely sacrificing street manners:
4x4 enthusiasts who tackle challenging trails regularly
Truck owners who need tough tires for work and play
Overlanders covering long distances in varied terrain
Drivers wanting BFGoodrich's race-proven durability
The KO3 continues BFGoodrich's all-terrain legacy with improved comfort and winter performance for modern drivers.
Tire Model |
Snow Performance |
Price Range (per tire) |
Warranty |
Key Technologies |
Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive |
3PMSF certified; 9.1 light snow, 8.7 deep snow, 8.3 ice traction |
$218.66 - $314.34 |
60,000-mile treadwear |
V-formation directional tread, Trumpet shaped lateral grooves, Deep continuous siping |
Regions with four seasons without harsh winters |
Michelin CrossClimate2 |
3PMSF certified; Better than 50% of winter tires |
$113 - $492 |
60,000-mile treadwear |
PIANO Noise Reduction, V-formation directional pattern |
Areas with changing weather needing all-season performance |
Bridgestone WeatherPeak |
3PMSF certified; 9-10 rating for snow performance |
$173 - $345 |
70,000-mile limited |
Full-depth 3D sipes, Snow Vices, Evolving sipes |
Daily drivers of coupes, sedans, SUVs, and minivans |
Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady |
3PMSF certified; 9-10 rating for snow/deep snow |
$164 - $275 |
60,000-mile treadwear |
Weather Reactive Technology, Evolving Traction Grooves, Soy-based compound |
Family vehicles in variable weather regions |
Nokian Remedy WRG5 |
3PMSF certified; Winter-optimized design |
$130 - $290 |
60,000-mile treadwear |
Triple Performance compound, Aramid sidewalls, Dual Performance Siping |
EVs and vehicles in four-season climates |
Falken Wildpeak AT4W |
3PMSF certified; Enhanced winter grip |
Not specified |
65,000-mile (non-LT), 60,000-mile (LT) |
DURASPEC Sidewall, Heat Diffuser technology, 3D Canyon Sipes |
SUVs and trucks that need on/off-road capability |
BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO3 |
3PMSF certified; Superior deep snow handling |
$189.99 - $760.99 |
50,000-mile treadwear |
CoreGard Technology, Advanced Deflection Design, Full-depth 3D sipes |
4x4s and trucks that tackle off-road terrain |
The right all-terrain tires for your SUV definitely make a huge difference in driving safety and performance. We found that modern all-terrain tires with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification live up to their promises after testing them in extreme winter conditions. Each tire shows its strength in different areas.
Without doubt, the Michelin CrossClimate2 outperforms many dedicated winter tires while lasting longer. The BFGoodrich All Terrain T/A KO3 delivers great off-road capability without compromising on-road comfort - perfect for adventure seekers. The Bridgestone WeatherPeak might appeal to drivers who want both winter performance and everyday comfort, backed by its impressive 70,000-mile warranty.
Your local weather should shape your tire choice. Electric vehicle owners facing harsh winters will find Nokian's Remedy WRG5 valuable. The Falken Wildpeak AT4W works best for those who need reliable highway manners yet often go off the beaten path.
Your driving habits determine the best tire choice. The Falken and BFGoodrich options offer the sidewall protection and aggressive tread patterns that heavy off-road users need. The Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive or Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady provide refined comfort that highway drivers want.
Our ground testing covered 3.3 billion miles and included over 250,000 consumer surveys. The results show that modern all-terrain tires bridge the gap between specialized winter tires and traditional all-season options. SUV owners can now have both safety and convenience.
Your driving conditions, vehicle specs, and personal priorities will guide you to the best all-terrain option. The perfect tire matches your needs for snow traction, on-road comfort, off-road capability, and longevity within your budget.
Our comprehensive testing of all-terrain tires reveals which options truly deliver on their promises for SUV owners seeking year-round performance without seasonal tire changes.
Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification is essential - Only tires with 3PMSF rating provide legitimate winter performance, required in some regions like Quebec.
Michelin CrossClimate2 outperforms 50% of dedicated winter tires while lasting up to 15,000 miles longer than competitors, making it ideal for variable weather regions.
BFGoodrich KO3 delivers superior off-road capability with CoreGard sidewall technology and mud-phobic bars, perfect for adventure seekers who need highway comfort.
Modern all-terrain tires eliminate seasonal changes - Our testing across 3.3 billion miles confirms today's options effectively bridge the gap between winter and all-season tires.
Match tire choice to driving conditions - Heavy off-road users need aggressive treads like Falken AT4W, while highway drivers benefit from refined options like Pirelli WeatherActive.
The right all-terrain tire balances your specific needs for snow traction, comfort, off-road capability, and longevity within budget constraints, with each tested option excelling in particular scenarios.
Based on expert testing, some of the best all-terrain tires for SUVs include the Michelin CrossClimate2, BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3, Falken Wildpeak AT4W, Bridgestone WeatherPeak, and Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady. Each excels in different areas like snow performance, off-road capability, and on-road comfort.
Many modern all-terrain tires with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certification offer impressive snow performance. Some, like the Michelin CrossClimate2, can outperform about half of dedicated winter tires in snow testing while providing year-round versatility.
Yes, many all-terrain tires are designed to provide a comfortable and quiet ride on highways. Tires like the Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive and Bridgestone WeatherPeak offer excellent on-road manners while maintaining off-road capability.
Consider factors like your typical driving conditions, desired snow performance, off-road needs, and on-road comfort requirements. Look for tires with 3PMSF certification for winter capability, and consider tread design and compound technology that matches your priorities.
The lifespan of all-terrain tires varies, but many offer impressive longevity. For example, the Bridgestone WeatherPeak comes with a 70,000-mile warranty, while the Michelin CrossClimate2 has been reported to last up to 65,000 miles. Regular rotation and proper maintenance can help maximize tire life.
