What tire size is the most popular among American drivers today? The 225/65R17 takes the top spot, capturing 5.8% of the U.S. replacement tire market. If you're driving a crossover or SUV, you're likely already running this exact size.
The tire market reveals interesting patterns across different vehicle segments. While 225/65R17 dominates passenger vehicles, light trucks tell a completely different story. The LT265/70R17 commands an impressive 84% share of the U.S. light truck tire replacement market. For original equipment, 225/65R17 has maintained its position as the most common tire size in America.
Market growth continues at a strong pace, with projections reaching USD 270.66 billion by 2033. This expansion reflects changing vehicle preferences, and all-season tires account for over 45% of sales due to their versatility across weather conditions. While 225/65R17 leads today's market, larger rim sizes are gaining popularity, especially in SUV and crossover segments.
Understanding these market trends helps you make better decisions for your vehicle. We've put together this guide to the most popular tire sizes to help you understand what's driving these choices and how they might apply to your needs.
The 225/65R17 tire size dominates today's market with 5.8% of the U.S. replacement tire market according to the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association's 2023 Factbook. This commanding market share reflects the perfect balance of performance, versatility, and compatibility with the most popular vehicles on American roads.
The 225/65R17 has become the go-to choice for the fastest-growing vehicle segments. This size fits perfectly on mid-size and compact SUVs, crossovers, and light-duty trucks. Popular vehicles using this size include:
Toyota RAV4
Honda CR-V
Subaru Outback
Ford Escape
Jeep Cherokee
This tire size fits an extensive range of vehicles from manufacturers like Mazda, Nissan, Chevrolet, and more. The popularity of crossovers and compact SUVs has naturally increased demand for this size, as manufacturers select it for original equipment. The 225/65R17 represents 4% of the U.S. original equipment tire market.
These tires deliver exceptional performance across multiple driving conditions. The 225/65R17 provides a smooth, stable ride on highways while maintaining dependable traction on wet or light snow surfaces. The moderate height creates an optimal balance between comfort and stability.
The extra sidewall height compared to lower-profile sizes helps absorb road impacts, making them ideal for SUVs and crossovers that encounter varied terrain. The sidewall provides enough flex for handling mild dirt, gravel, or snow-covered roads while delivering confident highway performance.
For enhanced durability, XL (Extra Load) versions offer additional sidewall strength and load capacity, making them particularly suitable for off-road and all-terrain use when paired with aggressive tread patterns. This versatility explains the strong market presence across multiple vehicle categories and driving conditions.
We carry the best selection of 225/65R17 tires from top manufacturers. Based on verified customer reviews, these all-season models consistently receive top ratings:
Continental CrossContact LX25 (rated 4.9/5) - Excellent for comfort and road manners
Falken ZIEX CT60 A/S (rated 4.9/5) - Great wet traction and quiet ride
Hankook Kinergy 4S2 X (rated 5.0/5) - Strong year-round grip and reliable in snow
General Altimax 365 AW (rated 5.0/5) - Excellent snow traction with balanced dry and wet control
GT Radial Maxtour LX (rated 5.0/5) - Very quiet, comfortable and affordable
Falken Wildpeak A/T4W (rated 4.8/5) - Great off-road and snow grip with rugged construction
Major brands like Michelin, Goodyear, Bridgestone, and BFGoodrich offer quality options. The market provides various specialized variants including touring tires for comfort, all-weather options for year-round performance, and all-terrain models for adventure-minded drivers.
The 225/65R17 market offers options at every price point to fit your budget and performance needs. Budget-friendly options start around $89-115, such as the GR906 All Season at approximately $89.88.
Mid-range options typically fall between $140-200, including popular choices like the Hankook Kinergy PT at $141.80 and the Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring A/S, which offers a 75,000-mile warranty.
Premium tires generally range from $200-250+, with models like the Michelin Defender2 at $204.99. This tire offers impressive longevity - outlasting some competitors by up to 25,000 miles according to treadwear tests. Many retailers frequently run promotions, such as "Save $160 off a set of 4 Michelin tires" or "Buy 3 Get 1 Free" deals, making even premium options more accessible.
Specialty tires like the Toyo Open Country A/T III for all-terrain use typically command higher prices, around $222.36, reflecting their specialized construction and enhanced capabilities.
The 225/65R17 has earned its position as America's most common replacement tire size through practical benefits and smart market positioning.
These tires offer versatile all-season performance, making them suitable for highway cruising, light off-roading, and winter driving. Their dimensions provide the right height for confident highway cruising while offering enough sidewall flex for varied terrain.
The size hits the sweet spot for tire pressure versatility. The 225/65R17 can operate between 26 to 42 PSI depending on load requirements and vehicle specifications, offering flexibility for different driving conditions and loads.
Professional drivers recommend purchasing these tires as a complete set of four, ensuring uniform tread depth, wear patterns, and grip characteristics for balanced handling and consistent braking. This practical advice has contributed to the size's reputation for reliability and performance consistency.
As vehicle manufacturers increasingly adopt this size for their most popular models, economies of scale in production have made 225/65R17 tires widely available at competitive price points, further cementing their market dominance.
The 215/55R17 captures 3.6% of the U.S. replacement tire market, making it the third most popular choice among American drivers. This size delivers the ideal middle ground between comfort and performance, which explains its strong appeal for compact crossovers and full-size sedans.
Popular sedans and smaller SUVs rely on the 215/55R17 for its balanced characteristics. You'll find this size on these common models:
Hyundai Kona
Honda HR-V
Nissan Altima
Volkswagen Passat
Lexus ES350
Kia Optima
This tire size fits over 100 different vehicle models worldwide, spanning luxury sedans to compact crossovers. The 215mm section width, 55% aspect ratio, and 17-inch rim diameter create the perfect balance for vehicles that need responsive handling without giving up ride comfort.
All-season variants dominate this size category, providing year-round versatility across dry, wet, and light snow conditions. The 215/55R17 excels at delivering balanced performance that works for diverse driving situations.
Specialized variants offer targeted performance benefits:
All-weather options provide superior year-round grip with Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification for severe snow conditions
Ultra-High Performance (UHP) versions deliver sportier handling for higher-speed driving
Touring models focus on comfort and longevity for highway use
At approximately 26.3 inches overall diameter, these tires offer sufficient sidewall cushioning while maintaining responsive handling. The moderate profile reduces pothole damage risk compared to lower-profile alternatives.
Top manufacturers have developed exceptional models in this size. Customer reviews and performance testing reveal these standout options:
Pirelli produces the P4 Persist AS Plus with optimized tread design that reduces uneven wear and delivers an impressive 85,000-mile warranty. The P7 AS Plus 3 (rated 740 A A) provides excellent wet traction with 70,000-mile coverage.
Bridgestone offers the Weatherpeak all-weather tire, scoring 9.7 out of 10 overall with excellent traction in both dry and snowy conditions. The Turanza QuietTrack delivers exceptional comfort with an 80,000-mile tread life warranty.
Continental creates the ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus for drivers seeking UHP characteristics with precise handling during spirited driving. Their TrueContact Tour provides 70,000 miles of warranty coverage with excellent all-season capabilities.
Additional quality brands include Goodyear (Assurance MaxLife 2, Assurance All-Season), Michelin (Defender2, CrossClimate 2), Hankook (Kinergy PT with 90,000-mile warranty), and Yokohama (AVID Ascend LX with 85,000-mile warranty).
The 215/55R17 market spans multiple price points to match different performance needs and budgets.
Budget options start around $70-80 per tire. The Fullway HP108 costs $69.93 while the Forceum Octa runs $66.93. These entry-level choices offer shorter tread life warranties but deliver acceptable daily performance.
Mid-range tires typically cost $100-175, including the Pirelli P Zero All Season ($101.64) and Kumho Solus TA31 ($139.64). These options usually feature 60,000-70,000 mile warranties and improved wet traction.
Premium selections range from $180-265. The Yokohama AVID Ascend LX costs $183.99 with an 85,000-mile warranty, while the Michelin Defender2 runs $206.99 with 80,000-mile coverage. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 commands $218.99 for its versatile all-weather performance.
Retailers run frequent promotions like "Save $160 off a set of 4 Michelin tires" or "Buy 3 Get 1 Free" on Cooper tires, making premium options more accessible during seasonal sales.
Several key factors explain the 215/55R17's position among America's most popular tire choices.
This size hits the sweet spot for balanced performance. The dimensions allow responsive handling while maintaining adequate sidewall height for absorbing road imperfections. This versatility works well for diverse driving styles and conditions.
Widespread manufacturer adoption for popular sedans and crossovers has increased market presence. Vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda HR-V, and Volkswagen Passat sell in high volumes, creating strong demand for replacement tires in this size.
The availability of specialized variants means drivers can find 215/55R17 tires tailored to their specific needs without changing wheel sizes. From touring to UHP to all-weather options, this adaptability extends the tire's appeal across different regions with varying weather conditions.
Economies of scale in production have made this size widely available at competitive price points, with options spanning from budget-friendly to premium performance categories. This accessibility has cemented the 215/55R17's position as one of America's most popular tire sizes.
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The 265/70R17 owns the light truck market with an incredible 84% market share, making it the undisputed champion of the U.S. light truck tire replacement market. This commanding presence comes from its perfect balance of durability, versatility, and performance for larger vehicles that demand robust tire solutions.
This size serves pickup trucks and larger SUVs that need substantial load capacity and versatile performance. Common vehicles equipped with this tire size include:
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Ford F-150
GMC Sierra 2500 HD
Hummer H3
Jeep Wrangler
Nissan Titan
RAM 1500
Toyota 4Runner
These vehicles demand tires that handle varied terrain while providing highway comfort. With a diameter of 31.6 inches and section width of 10.4 inches, these tires offer substantial ground clearance without sacrificing stability. The 7.3-inch sidewall height provides crucial cushioning for off-road adventures, while the 99.2-inch circumference ensures efficient power delivery.
The 265/70R17 excels in both on-road comfort and off-road capability. These tires are specifically engineered for vehicles used in diverse conditions, from highway cruising to rugged terrain exploration.
For daily drivers, this size provides stable handling characteristics despite its taller profile. On highways, these tires deliver predictable behavior even under heavy loads, with load capacities ranging from 2,679 lbs for standard passenger variants to 3,415 lbs for LT (Light Truck) variants.
Off-road enthusiasts appreciate the tire's versatility across multiple terrains. The substantial sidewall offers essential flex for rock crawling and uneven surfaces, delivering excellent traction when venturing beyond paved roads. Many variants in this size feature advanced tread patterns specifically designed for mud, snow, or all-terrain performance.
Despite being larger than standard passenger tires, their relatively modest weight (typically 40-51 lbs) helps maintain reasonable fuel efficiency without excessive unsprung weight.
Several manufacturers have developed standout offerings in this popular size:
Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 earns an impressive 9.6 overall score for daily drivers seeking balanced performance. Its innovative rubber compound reduces irregular wear, contributing to its exceptional 70,000-mile warranty and 9.8 longevity rating.
Falken Wildpeak A/T4W stands out for all-terrain enthusiasts with a 9.5 overall rating. This tire features staggered shoulder blocks and Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification, earning it a remarkable 9.8 traction score across varied surfaces including snow. Its 65,000-mile warranty reflects confidence in its durability.
Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT excels in extreme off-road conditions with an 8.7 overall score. Its large shoulder blocks and TractiveGroove Technology deliver exceptional traction (9.3 rating) in mud and other challenging terrains. The tire's Duraplay Technology guards against cuts and abrasions common in off-road driving.
Other popular brands offering quality options in this size include Michelin, BFGoodrich, Continental, Cooper, and Toyo.
The 265/70R17 market offers options across various price points:
| Category | Price Range | Best For | Example Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $140-$180 | Daily drivers, value seekers | Starfire Solarus HT ($140-$180) |
| Mid-Range | $180-$230 | All-season reliability | Trail Blade H/T Truck/SUV All Season |
| Premium | $230-$300+ | High performance, off-road use | Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 ($285.99) |
Seasonal promotions frequently make premium options more accessible, such as "$160 off a set of 4 Michelin tires" or "$242.99 off a set of 4 Cooper tires". Warranty coverage typically ranges from 50,000 miles for specialized off-road tires to 70,000 miles for premium highway tires.
The 265/70R17 dominates the light truck market for several key reasons.
First, its dimensional properties hit the sweet spot for trucks and larger SUVs. At approximately 31 inches tall, these tires provide ideal ground clearance for vehicles that may encounter varied terrain without excessively raising the vehicle's center of gravity.
Second, the versatility across driving conditions makes this size practical for truck owners. Whether hauling loads on highways, navigating construction sites, or venturing off-road on weekends, these tires deliver reliable performance without requiring owners to switch between specialized sets.
Third, the wide availability of specialized variants - from highway-focused options that prioritize comfort to aggressive mud-terrain designs for extreme conditions - ensures drivers can find the perfect tire without changing wheel sizes.
Fourth, professional drivers cite the balanced combination of load capacity, durability, and performance as essential for work trucks that must handle diverse conditions reliably day after day.
As vehicle manufacturers continue producing popular trucks and SUVs that use this tire size, economies of scale in production have made 265/70R17 tires widely available at competitive price points, solidifying their dominance in the light truck market.
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The 225/45R17 tire size serves performance-oriented vehicles where handling matters most. This low-profile tire delivers responsive steering and enhanced road feel, making it a popular choice for drivers who prioritize driving dynamics over maximum comfort.
The 225/45R17 size fits sporty coupes and sedans designed for active driving. Common vehicles running this tire size include:
BMW 1, 2, and 3 Series
Mini Cooper Clubman
Audi A3
Lexus IS300
Hyundai Elantra
Kia Forte
Cadillac CT4
Fiat 500L
This tire size appears on over 100 different vehicle models worldwide. Mercedes-Benz uses this size for their A-Class, B-Class, and CLA-Class models, reinforcing its connection to performance-focused vehicles.
With a 25-inch diameter and 8.9-inch section width, the 225/45R17 delivers sharp handling characteristics. The 45% aspect ratio reduces sidewall flex during cornering, creating more precise steering response and better road feedback.
Most drivers choose all-season variants for year-round use, but specialized options include:
All-weather tires with Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification for winter capability
Ultra-High Performance (UHP) variants for maximum grip and handling
Summer tires for peak warm-weather performance
These tires complete 808 revolutions per mile, providing efficient power transfer while maintaining reasonable ride quality. While designed primarily for pavement, they handle light rain and varied conditions adequately.
Top manufacturers offer strong options in this size:
Pirelli makes the P7 AS Plus 3, a grand touring tire with 70,000-mile warranty coverage and excellent UTQG ratings (740 A A). Their P Zero Nero All Season targets drivers wanting sportier characteristics.
Continental produces the PureContact LS, earning 9.7 ratings for both traction and longevity. The tire's EcoPlus Technology improves wet performance while reducing rolling resistance.
Falken offers the Aklimate all-weather tire, scoring 8.9 overall with outstanding durability ratings (9.7). Their Ziex ZE950 A/S provides 65,000-mile warranty coverage with performance-oriented design.
Other quality brands include Bridgestone (Potenza S001 RFT), Goodyear (Assurance All-Season), and Michelin (Pilot Sport All Season 4).
The 225/45R17 market spans multiple price ranges:
Budget options start around $105-130, including the Ohtsu FP7000 ($112.96) and Kumho Solus TA31 ($132.50).
Mid-range selections fall between $140-190, such as the Falken Ziex ZE950 A/S ($112.60) with 65,000-mile warranty and the Goodyear Eagle Sport All-Season ($138.99) with 50,000-mile coverage.
Premium choices begin around $200, including the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 at $217.99 and the Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 winter tire at $224.99. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 costs $241.99 for all-weather versatility.
Several factors drive the popularity of 225/45R17 tires.
The low profile and larger rim diameter create an appealing sporty appearance that matches the performance these tires deliver. This visual appeal attracts drivers who want their vehicles to look as dynamic as they drive.
This size strikes the right balance between sharp handling and acceptable comfort. The dimensions enable precise steering response while maintaining reasonable ride quality for daily driving.
The variety of specialized options - from touring to UHP to winter tires - lets drivers customize performance without changing wheel sizes. This flexibility works across different driving preferences and weather conditions.
Vehicle manufacturers continue selecting this size for popular sporty sedans and compact cars, creating strong demand and competitive pricing through production scale. This availability has established the 225/45R17 as a leading choice for performance-minded drivers.
Securing the second spot with 4.2% market share, the 235/60R18 serves a growing segment of mid-sized SUVs and crossovers that demand both comfort and versatility.
This versatile size appears on more than 160 different vehicle models worldwide, spanning multiple categories:
Luxury crossovers: Audi Q5, Porsche Macan, Jaguar E-Pace
Popular SUVs: Honda CR-V, Honda Pilot, Toyota Sienna
Crossovers: Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe, Nissan Rogue
Minivans: Chrysler Pacifica
With an overall diameter of 29.1 inches and width of 9.3 inches, these tires deliver the perfect balance between road presence and refined handling.
The 235/60R18 excels at delivering year-round grip with touring-style ride comfort. These dimensions create highway stability while providing sufficient sidewall flex for absorbing road imperfections.
Enhanced capabilities come through specialized variants:
All-terrain options like the Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail deliver off-road traction without sacrificing on-road manners
Ultra-high performance variants such as the Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus offer responsive handling with year-round grip
All-weather options including Michelin CrossClimate 2 provide superior performance across varied conditions
Top performers in this size category include several standout options:
Goodyear's Wrangler Steadfast HT earns exceptional ratings with 9.9/10 for longevity and 9.7/10 for traction. Its DuPont Kevlar-reinforced tread comes with a 70,000-mile warranty.
Michelin offers premium choices like the Defender2 ($231.99) and CrossClimate2 ($267.99), both featuring industry-leading warranties and advanced tread compounds.
Other quality brands include Continental, Pirelli, Yokohama, and Cooper, with warranties typically ranging from 50,000-85,000 miles.
The market offers options across multiple price points:
| Category | Price Range | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $95-$140 | Forceum Penta ($95.93) |
| Mid-range | $140-$200 | Goodyear Assurance All-Season ($206.99) |
| Premium | $200-$280 | Yokohama AVID Ascend LX ($225.99) with 85,000-mile warranty |
Frequent promotions like "Save $160 off a set of 4 Michelin tires" make premium options more accessible.
This size has earned its position through key advantages that crossover and SUV owners value. The ideal balance between comfort and capability makes it practical for diverse driving conditions.
Vehicle manufacturers increasingly adopt this size for popular models, creating economies of scale that expand availability across price points. The versatility from highway cruising to light off-roading means drivers don't need to switch between specialized sets for different conditions.
When choosing the right tire size for your vehicle, this comparison breaks down the key differences between America's most popular options:
| Tire Size | Market Share | Primary Vehicle Types | Common Vehicle Examples | Price Range | Key Performance Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 225/65R17 | 5.8% of U.S. replacement market | Mid-size/Compact SUVs, Crossovers | Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Subaru Outback, Ford Escape | $89-250 | Balanced ride, good wet traction, suitable for light snow |
| 215/55R17 | 3.6% of U.S. replacement market | Compact Crossovers, Full-size Sedans | Hyundai Kona, Honda HR-V, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima | $70-265 | Responsive handling, comfort-focused, balanced performance |
| 265/70R17 | 84% of U.S. light truck market | Pickup Trucks, Large SUVs | Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-150, Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Wrangler | $140-300+ | High load capacity, off-road capability, durability |
| 225/45R17 | Performance segment | Sport Coupes, Performance Sedans | BMW 3 Series, Audi A3, Hyundai Elantra, Mini Cooper | $105-250 | Sporty handling, responsive steering, low profile |
| 235/60R18 | 4.2% of U.S. replacement market | Mid-sized SUVs, Luxury Crossovers | Honda CR-V, Audi Q5, Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe | $95-280 | Comfort-focused, versatile all-season performance |
This comparison shows how vehicle type directly influences tire size selection, with crossovers dominating the passenger market while trucks maintain their own distinct preferences.
Knowing the most popular tire sizes helps you make smarter decisions when it's time for replacements or upgrades. The market data reveals clear patterns: crossovers and SUVs drive demand for sizes like 225/65R17 and 235/60R18, while truck owners overwhelmingly choose 265/70R17 for its rugged capability.
These patterns reflect how American drivers are choosing their vehicles. As crossovers and SUVs continue gaining popularity over traditional sedans, tire sizes that balance comfort, performance, and versatility become increasingly important. Vehicle manufacturers recognize this shift and equip their best-selling models accordingly.
Your vehicle type guides your tire size choice. Crossover owners typically run 225/65R17 or 235/60R18 sizes. Truck drivers prefer the durability of 265/70R17 tires. Performance car enthusiasts often select 225/45R17 for sharp handling, while sedan owners frequently choose 215/55R17 for balanced everyday driving.
We believe in providing quality tires at prices that work for every budget. Budget options start around $70-140, mid-range tires typically fall between $140-200, and premium selections range from $200-300+. Many retailers offer promotions that make top-tier tires more accessible, particularly when you buy a complete set.
The tire market keeps evolving with vehicle preferences. While today's popular sizes dominate current sales, larger rim sizes continue gaining ground as SUVs and crossovers solidify their position in American driveways. Understanding these trends helps you make informed choices that match both your vehicle and driving needs.
Ready to find the right tires for your vehicle? Use this guide to identify the size that fits your driving style and budget. Whether you're looking for all-season reliability, off-road capability, or performance handling, there's a tire size and type that delivers exactly what you need.
Understanding tire market trends helps you make smarter purchasing decisions and find the best value for your specific vehicle needs.
225/65R17 dominates the market with 5.8% of U.S. replacement sales, perfect for popular crossovers like Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V
Light truck owners prefer 265/70R17 which commands 84% of the light truck market, ideal for pickups and large SUVs requiring durability
Price ranges vary dramatically from budget options at $70-140 to premium tires at $200-300+, with frequent promotions making quality tires more accessible
Vehicle type determines optimal size - crossovers use 225/65R17, performance cars prefer 225/45R17, and sedans typically choose 215/55R17
Market trends favor larger vehicles as crossovers and SUVs continue displacing sedans, driving demand for versatile all-season tire sizes
The tire industry reflects America's shift toward crossovers and SUVs, with manufacturers focusing on sizes that balance comfort, performance, and year-round capability. Whether you're replacing worn tires or upgrading performance, knowing these popular sizes and their typical applications ensures you'll find the right match for your driving needs and budget.
The 225/65R17 tire size is currently the most popular, accounting for 5.8% of the U.S. replacement tire market. It's commonly found on popular crossovers and compact SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.
The 265/70R17 size dominates the light truck segment with an impressive 84% market share. It's preferred for pickup trucks and large SUVs due to its durability and versatility in various driving conditions.
Tire prices can vary significantly. Budget options typically start around $70-$140, mid-range tires fall between $140-$200, and premium options generally range from $200-$300+. Promotions and sales can make higher-end tires more accessible.
A tire size's popularity is influenced by vehicle manufacturer choices, balanced performance characteristics, versatility across driving conditions, and economies of scale in production leading to competitive pricing and wide availability.
Market trends are favoring larger vehicles like crossovers and SUVs, which is driving demand for versatile all-season tire sizes that balance comfort, performance, and year-round capability. This shift is reflected in the popularity of sizes like 225/65R17 and 235/60R18.
