Best 4WD Tyres
Going off the beaten path can be made possible with the right equipment - and this includes the right tyres. Knowing what to look for when choosing 4WD tyres will ensure that they’re fit for purpose, won’t leave you stranded mid-adventure, and will let you go on the adventure you want. Continue reading...
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The Falken Wildpeak AT3W has rugged and rigid tread blocks and patented 3D Canyon Sipes, helping it excel off-road and in wet weather.
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- Build Quality4.6 (42)
- Value for Money4.5 (42)
- Noise Level4.5 (37)
- Wet Weather Handling4.7 (37)
- Durability4.3 (35)
- Dry Weather Handling4.8 (39)
The Pirelli Scorpion ATR is an all-terrtain tyre with a robust carcass, a self-cleaning tread pattern, and a high resistance to aquaplaning.
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- Value for Money3.7 (14)
- Noise Level3.8 (14)
- Wet Weather Handling4.1 (11)
- Durability3.7 (11)
- Dry Weather Handling4.2 (11)
The all-terrain Hankook Dynapro AT-M RF10 has a rugged tread pattern which gives it better resistance to cuts and tears as well as self-cleaning angled side grooves for optimal off-road performance.
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- Wet Weather Handling3.5 (25)
- Durability4.0 (25)
- Dry Weather Handling4.2 (26)
Suitable for both daily drivers and avid adventurers, the Toyo Open Country A/T II has the ability to tackle all kinds of terrain.
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- Value for Money4.5 (28)
- Noise Level3.8 (25)
- Wet Weather Handling4.2 (23)
- Durability4.6 (25)
- Dry Weather Handling4.5 (25)
- Width215 mm to 285 mm
- Aspect Ratio / Profile50% to 85%
- Rim Diameter15 to 20 inches
- Load Index98 to 126
- Speed RatingH, Q, R, S, or T
With a massive tread design, extra sidewall protection, and the ability to self-clean, the Hankook Dynapro MT Tyres are serious contenders to get you off the beaten track.
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Designed for mostly on-road driving with a bit of adventure on dirt and mud on the side, the Cooper CS5 Grand Touring Tyre offers great traction and handling on bitumen.
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- Value for Money4.3 (8)
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- Wet Weather Handling4.7 (7)
- Durability4.7 (6)
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Latest review: Once you have used Bridgestone styes you'll notice the difference and the long last tread that out Proform other brands. If your the type of person who wants to leave the road for an adventure these
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- Width215 mm to 285 mm
- Aspect Ratio / Profile60% to 95%
- Rim Diameter15 to 18 inches
- Load Index96 to 123
- Speed RatingH, R, S, T
Latest review: Wow amazing in wet and dry conditions ,would highly recommend
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- Value for Money4.4 (16)
- Noise Level4.2 (15)
- Wet Weather Handling4.8 (16)
- Durability4.1 (15)
- Dry Weather Handling4.8 (16)
Latest review: The time to replace my BFG KO2 had come. The old BFG KO2 265/75/16's were pretty good tyres and I had no problems with them but when they wore down to the last 50% I noticed they were a bit
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- Build Quality4.9 (16)
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- Wet Weather Handling4.2 (15)
- Durability4.6 (14)
- Dry Weather Handling4.5 (15)
Latest review: Tyres perform ok but at 35000 ks are just about done. These were on my new x class and disappointed with a supposedly premium tyres lack of durability. On road is okay but poor off
- Build Quality4.6 (7)
- Value for Money4.4 (7)
- Noise Level4.6 (8)
- Wet Weather Handling4.5 (8)
- Durability4.1 (7)
- Dry Weather Handling4.9 (8)
Latest review: Got these on jb gator van done maybe 15/20000 km can’t believe how bad there w
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- Build Quality3.6 (17)
- Value for Money3.3 (17)
- Noise Level2.7 (17)
- Wet Weather Handling3.6 (16)
- Durability3.8 (16)
- Dry Weather Handling4.3 (16)
- Width225 mm to 315 mm
- Aspect Ratio / Profile55% to 85%
- Rim Diameter15 to 20 inches
- Load Index104 to 126
- Speed RatingN, P, Q
- Tread Life Warranty60,000 to 80,000 km
Latest review: Nearly worn out at 20000 km,they offer good grip wet and dry and not to bad off road , just don't last, my last nissan I put Hankook on and they had 40000 km when I traded it and they were still
- Build Quality4.3 (6)
- Value for Money3.8 (6)
- Noise Level3.5 (6)
- Wet Weather Handling4.3 (6)
- Durability3.8 (6)
- Dry Weather Handling4.5 (6)
Latest review: Had these from new on a 2019 Toyota Hilux SR5. 265x60r18 Yes, smooth quite highway / bitumen driving. Ok on soft offroad use like light gravel roads and a bit of light sand use. Definitely not great
- Build Quality4.3 (3)
- Value for Money4.3 (3)
- Noise Level4.7 (3)
- Wet Weather Handling4.5 (2)
- Durability4.3 (3)
- Dry Weather Handling4.7 (3)
Latest review: Really disappointed with these tyres. Lasted 6 months. No traction in the wet whatsoever I can hardly tow my 8x5 tradesman trailer when raining very dangerous. Paid $1700 for the set. Complete waste
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- Build Quality3.3 (4)
- Value for Money3.0 (4)
- Noise Level3.3 (3)
- Wet Weather Handling2.5 (4)
- Durability2.8 (4)
- Dry Weather Handling4.0 (4)
- Width215 mm to 305 mm
- Aspect Ratio / Profile60% to 75%
- Rim Diameter15 to 18 inches
- Load Index100 to 123
- Speed RatingQ
Latest review: Very grippy and reliable even in the wet let’s you relax and drive the way you want with premium accuracy and s
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- Build Quality4.3 (17)
- Value for Money4.1 (17)
- Noise Level4.5 (17)
- Wet Weather Handling4.2 (16)
- Durability4.1 (15)
- Dry Weather Handling4.3 (16)
Latest review: At 70,000 Km's still have 20,000 Km's left on them, quiet on road and very good handling in the wet, good off road as well bought from Tyres plus in South Windsor at a low price and good
- Build Quality5.0 (11)
- Value for Money4.9 (11)
- Noise Level4.8 (11)
- Wet Weather Handling5.0 (12)
- Durability4.9 (11)
- Dry Weather Handling5.0 (12)
Latest review: I recently replaced the LTX Mitchellins on my LC200. They are good tyres, but was pleasantly surprised how nicer the ride is with Yokohama Geolander tyres. I can describe the ride as plush working
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- Build Quality4.4 (18)
- Value for Money4.3 (17)
- Noise Level4.2 (17)
- Wet Weather Handling4.4 (17)
- Durability4.2 (17)
- Dry Weather Handling4.6 (17)
Latest review: my 2014 Kia Sorrento came factory fitted with these 235/55 r19 tyres and I was amazed to get 85000 ks from the first set so I bought them again last time. My car is now due tyres again and the speedo
- Build Quality4.8 (15)
- Value for Money4.9 (15)
- Noise Level4.5 (15)
- Wet Weather Handling4.4 (15)
- Durability5.0 (13)
- Dry Weather Handling4.7 (15)
Latest review: Have you ever got 125,000 kms out of a set of tyres that still grip in the wet??? Thats what I've got out of my Michelin LATITUDE CROSS tyres - this is my 4th Toyota Prado - usally keep them for
- Build Quality3.0 (2)
- Value for Money3.0 (2)
- Noise Level4.0 (2)
- Wet Weather Handling3.0 (2)
- Durability3.0 (2)
- Dry Weather Handling3.0 (2)
Latest review: Tried so many tyres, these are the best 130,000km when replaced. 120 prado no issues apart from a leaking valve in the days after Initial fitting. But the swapped out the valve and they just never
- Build Quality4.7 (3)
- Value for Money5.0 (3)
- Noise Level3.3 (3)
- Wet Weather Handling3.5 (4)
- Durability4.3 (4)
- Dry Weather Handling4.5 (4)
Types of 4WD tyres
4x4 tyres are often broken down into 3 categories: all terrain (A/T), highway terrain (H/T), and Mud Terrain (M/T). There are also light truck (L/T) tyres.
When choosing a type of tyre, ask yourself the following questions before comparing the features of each:
- How often will I realistically go off-road?
- When I do go off-road, how long will this be for?
- How harsh will the conditions be when I go off-road?
All terrain tyres
All terrain (A/T) tyres are a great all-rounder if you drive both in the city and off road. They’re more heavy-duty and deal with rocks and ruts more easily than highway terrain tyres, but aren’t as durable as mud terrain tyres. However, they’ve got the capabilities for outback trips and rougher terrain, while also being able to keep you comfortable on bitumen.
Not all 4x4 all terrain tyres are the same; you can find some with thinner treads for driving in the city and some with more open treads for smoother driving on more difficult terrain.
Highway terrain tyres
Highway terrain (H/T) tyres are suited to those who spend most of their time on-road. They’re capable of light, occasional off-roading (such as on gravel roads), but won’t do the job for more serious paths and harsh conditions.
These tyres have less space between the tread blocks, more siping for greater traction, and an overlay between the steel belts to make for a more comfortable ride.
Mud terrain tyres
Mud terrain (M/T) tyres have a durable construction and a deep, block-like tread which creates a lot of noise - you’ll be able to hear one coming a mile away. If you’re regularly off-roading or camping in remote areas, these tyres will give you excellent traction on mud and rock, even in more severe conditions.
While they’re not designed for extensive on-road use, M/T tyres are improving in this area. You can also find mud and snow (M/S) tyres, which have at least 25% open treads that make them suited to driving on snow.
Light truck tyres
Outside of the three main types, 4WD tyres can also be categorised as L/T tyres. Light truck (L/T) tyres are built stronger, to both be more durable and carry more load. These tyres have improved traction and an aggressive tread pattern that makes them more resistant to punctures.
These tyres give you the highest level of protection off road, and can handle heavier weights, which can be useful if you’re towing.
LT A/T tyres are more suited to rugged terrain than regular A/T tyres, while LT M/T tyres are the ultimate option for venturing off the beaten track.
When should I replace my 4WD tyres?
When your 4WD tyre has worn down to the treadwear indicators, it’s a good sign that you should be changing it out. If your tyre starts to chip, crack, or if it sustains irreparable admage, then you should also think about replacing it. You should also have your tyres inspected regularly at a tyre store after they’re 5 years old.
Nowadays, 4WD tyres should easily be able to last for 50,000 to 80,000km, but you should still consider changing them prior to an extended trip.
How to choose 4WD tyres
Size
Off-road wheel sizes often range from 15 to 20 inches, but the larger the diameter, the reduced ability your tyres have to deal with dust and mud. The most common off-road sizes are 16 and 17-inch tyres, as maximising the tyre’s sidewall helps it absorb impact and shock.
Speed and load ratings
Your 4WD will have a recommended speed and load rating, which you can find in the owner’s manual or on the tyre placard on a door jamb.
Tyres have a speed rating that indicate its maximum permitted speed. Don’t push your tyres beyond their limit, as you could risk blowing them. Doing this could also cause issues with any insurance claims.
The different speed ratings are outlined below.
Speed rating | Maximum speed | ||
---|---|---|---|
N | 140km/h | ||
P | 150km/h | ||
Q | 160km/h | ||
R | 170km/h | ||
S | 180km/h | ||
T | 190km/h | ||
U | 200km/h | ||
H | 210km/h | ||
V | 240km/h |
Tyres also have load ratings, which indicate how much weight a tyre is designed to carry when at its maximum speed rating and inflated to its maximum pressure. The load rating must not be below the minimum rating for your 4WD.
The different load ratings are outlined below.
Index number | Maximum permitted load | ||
---|---|---|---|
60 | 250kg | ||
70 | 335kg | ||
80 | 450kg | ||
90 | 600kg | ||
100 | 800kg | ||
110 | 1060kg | ||
120 | 1400kg | ||
130 | 1900kg |
How to read tyre specs
If you’re wondering what all those numbers on your tyres mean, you’re not alone. Follow this example so that you can figure out your own tyre specs.
185/75/R14/89T
- 185 is the tyre width in millimetres (185mm).
- 75 indicates the tyre’s sidewall aspect ratio, as a percentage of width (75 means the height is 75% of its width).
- R indicates the tyre construction, which in this case is radial ply construction.
- 14 indicates the rim diameter in inches (14 inches).
- 89 indicates the load rating (89 can carry 580kg per tyre).
- T represents the speed rating (190km/h).
Tread
Tyres with a wider block design and angled centre tread blocks are generally suited to dry, sandy conditions. If you’re looking for better traction and more protection, look for flex grooves, release dimples, mud scoops, release dimples, and raised rubber ribs.
Tyres with wider grooves and a more aggressive tread pattern are typically suited to wetter conditions. Also look for siping, which are tiny cuts in your tyres that prevent aquaplaning and reduce slipping in wet conditions by sucking water up and releasing it once the wheels hit the bitumen.
Price
The last thing you want is for something to go wrong when you’re off-roading, particularly if you’re in a remote area. It’s recommended to buy your tyres from a reputable brand. Buying from a reputable dealer will also help you find a tyre that suits your needs, and should ensure that you get adequate after-sales support.
You’re limited to buying tyres that fit your vehicle, so the range that’s available to you will vary depending on what you drive. Generally, however, tyres for 4x4s will range from $150 to over $400 each.