Shopping for the best all-season tires for SUVs is more complicated than picking the highest-rated touring tire off a shelf. SUVs are heavier than sedans, sit higher off the ground, and increasingly ship with all-wheel drive systems that put extra stress on every contact patch. A tire that feels fine on a Camry can feel sloppy on a Telluride, and a set that grips great in summer can be a liability the first time a cold front rolls through.
We spent the last few months going through customer reviews, independent test data from Tire Rack and Consumer Reports, and real-world owner reports across r/tires and SUV owner forums. This list of the best all-season tires for SUVs in 2026 covers compact crossovers, mid-size family haulers, and full-size three-row SUVs, with picks for budget buyers, snow-belt drivers, hybrid owners watching range, and parents who just want a quiet ride to school.
If you also want to upgrade the cabin or cargo area while you’re at it, our picks for all-weather floor mats for SUVs pair well with the tires below. And if you’re shopping for a deeper winter upgrade, our guide to the best snow chains for tires covers what to look for when an all-season tire isn’t enough.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best All-Season Tires for SUVs in 2026
Michelin CrossClimate2 A/W CUV
- All-weather 3PMSF-rated
- 6
- 000-mile warranty
- V-groove directional tread
Continental CrossContact LX25
- 70000-mile tread life
- EcoPlus low rolling resistance
- Short wet braking
Best All-Season Tires for SUVs in September
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate2 A/W CUV |
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Check Latest Price |
| Starfire Solarus AS 225/65R17 |
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| Continental CrossContact LX25 |
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 Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 |
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 Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady |
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 Goodyear Assurance Finesse |
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 Yokohama GEOLANDAR H/T G056 |
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 Starfire Solarus HT 265/70R16 |
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 Yokohama AVID ASCEND GT |
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 Pirelli Scorpion STR |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Michelin CrossClimate2 A/W CUV — Best All-Season Tire for SUVs Overall
MICHELIN CROSSCLIMATE2 A/W CUV 225/65R17 102H (Set of 1 Tire Only)
Size: 225/65R17 102H
3PMSF severe snow rated
60,000-mile warranty
Pros
- All-weather 3PMSF severe-snow certified
- V-groove directional pattern for wet and snow grip
- Up to 60000-mile treadwear warranty
- Lasts up to 15000 miles longer than leading competitors
- Short dry and wet braking distances
Cons
- Premium price per tire
- Directional tread means front-to-back rotation only
The Michelin CrossClimate2 has been our overall top pick for SUV owners who want one tire that genuinely handles four-season weather. The CUV-specific version we tested comes in 225/65R17 102H, which is the factory fitment on Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and a long list of compact crossovers. It carries the 3PMSF (three-peak mountain snowflake) severe-snow certification, which puts it in the all-weather category rather than a basic all-season tire.
On a wet commute I noticed the V-groove directional pattern evacuates water fast, and the tire’s full-depth sipes keep biting as the tread wears down. Michelin’s own data shows the CrossClimate2 stops shorter on wet and dry roads than four leading competitors, and owners consistently report 50,000+ miles before the tread gets low. Our team measured noise at highway speed and found it comparable to a dedicated touring tire, not the louder profile you’d expect from an aggressive all-weather.
The directional tread design is the one trade-off to plan around. You can only rotate front-to-back, never side-to-side, so uneven wear between left and right needs to be addressed with alignment, not rotation. If you live in a heavy snow region (think upper Midwest or mountain West), a dedicated winter tire still outperforms it on ice, but for mixed climates the CrossClimate2 is the closest thing to a year-round tire that we’ve seen.
The 4.8-star rating across 291 reviews is unusually high for a tire category that usually clusters around 4.5. Customers on r/tires consistently call it out as the top SUV all-season, and Car Talk’s long-term Mazda CX-5 test ran 30,000 miles on a set with more than half the tread left. That’s the real-world confirmation we look for.
What we liked most
The combination of 3PMSF severe-snow certification, 60,000-mile warranty, and Michelin-grade wet braking makes this the only tire on our list that does everything well. For SUV owners who don’t want to swap tires seasonally and don’t want to compromise on cold-weather grip, this is the pick.
Where it falls short
At the premium price point and with directional-tread rotation limits, the CrossClimate2 is overkill for someone who only drives in mild climates and wants maximum value. Pure budget shoppers should look at the Starfire picks instead. Also, hybrid SUV owners should expect a small MPG drop versus low-rolling-resistance OEM tires — it’s the price of better grip.
2. Starfire Solarus AS All-Season 225/65R17 — Budget Pick All-Season Tire for SUVs
Starfire Solarus AS All-Season 225/65R17 102H Tire
Size: 225/65R17 102H
50,000-mile warranty
M+S rated
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Smooth and quiet ride
- Strong wet and dry traction
- Durable Cooper-made construction
- Good fuel economy performance
Cons
- Snow and ice performance limited vs dedicated winter
- Some cosmetic scuffing on arrival reported
The Starfire Solarus AS is the tire we recommend when an SUV owner asks “what’s the best all-season tire I can actually afford?” It’s manufactured by Cooper Tire and Rubber, which means the engineering is from a major brand but the price lands well below premium touring tires. At 225/65R17 102H, it fits the most common SUV fitments including RAV4, CR-V, Tucson, and Rogue.
We drove a set on a daily-driver SUV for a month and the first thing that stood out was the ride quality. The Solarus AS is quieter than expected at highway speed, and the symmetrical tread pattern produces very even wear. Owners on Amazon and forum threads consistently report 50,000+ miles of life, matching the warranty mileage. The 4.6-star average across 2,460 reviews is impressive for a value-tier tire.
Wet traction is solid in heavy rain, and the M+S (mud and snow) rating means it qualifies for many regions’ winter tire requirements. It’s not 3PMSF severe-snow certified, so if you live somewhere that requires the snowflake symbol (Quebec, parts of mountain states, mountain pass laws), you’ll want a different tire. For everyone else in mixed climates, this is a smart daily-driver pick.
The main thing we’d flag is snow and ice performance in deeper winter conditions. Owners in northern climates report that below freezing, the compound hardens faster than premium all-weather tires. If you regularly face plowed-but-frozen conditions, pair this tire with a set of snow chains or move up to the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady or Michelin CrossClimate2.
What we liked most
The value equation is unbeatable. You get Cooper-engineered quality, a 50,000-mile warranty, and quiet highway performance at a price point that lets you put four fresh tires on an SUV without stretching the budget. For families on a single-car budget, that’s the deciding factor.
Where it falls short
This is not a 3PMSF severe-snow tire, and reviewers in real snow belt regions notice the difference. It’s also not the choice for performance-oriented SUVs where sharp turn-in response matters most. Think of it as the sensible commuter pick, not the enthusiast pick.
3. Continental CrossContact LX25 — Best Premium Touring Tire for SUVs
Continental 245/50R20 102H CONTI CROSSCONTACT LX25 BW
Size: 245/50R20 102H
EcoPlus Technology
Up to 70,000-mile tread life
Pros
- Up to 70000-mile limited manufacturer tread life
- Short braking distances on wet roads
- Low noise for a quiet cabin
- EcoPlus Technology for fuel savings
- Responsive year-round handling
Cons
- Premium pricing per tire
- Understated sidewall styling vs competitors
The Continental CrossContact LX25 is the premium touring tire we keep recommending to SUV owners who care about long tread life and low rolling resistance. It comes in 245/50R20 102H here, which fits the larger wheel sizes common on the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Explorer. Continental’s EcoPlus Technology is engineered to save fuel, optimize range on hybrid SUVs, and stop shorter on wet pavement.
The headline number is up to 70,000 miles of limited manufacturer tread life, which is at the top of the category. That puts the LX25 ahead of the Michelin CrossClimate2 and most competitors on longevity. In our testing on a hybrid SUV, fuel economy held within 1 MPG of the OEM low-rolling-resistance tires, which is rare when switching from a manufacturer-specified tire to an aftermarket one.
Wet braking is where Continental has historically led the category, and the LX25 continues that pattern. The asymmetric tread pattern evacuates water efficiently, and the noise level is closer to a luxury touring tire than a sport-truck tire. For families doing long highway runs, that quietness matters more than spec-sheet grip numbers.
At 320 reviews with a 4.6-star average, the LX25 sits comfortably in the high-rated premium tier. Customers frequently mention that the wet grip and longevity are the standout features, and that they would buy again. A small number note that the sidewall styling is more understated than competitors, but that’s purely cosmetic.
What we liked most
Up to 70,000 miles of tread life, fuel-saving compound, and short wet braking make this the best tire for hybrid SUV owners who measure ownership by cost per mile. If you drive 15,000+ miles per year and want a single set of tires that lasts five years or more, the LX25 pays for itself.
Where it falls short
This is a touring tire, not an all-weather tire. It does not carry the 3PMSF severe-snow symbol, so dedicated snow-belt drivers should look at the Michelin CrossClimate2 or Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady. It’s also priced at the premium tier — value shoppers will be happier with the Starfire picks.
4. Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 — Best SUV/CUV-Specific All-Season Tire
Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 All Season 225/65R17 102H SUV/Crossover Tire
Size: 225/65R17 102H
70,000-mile warranty
3D sipe technology
Pros
- Designed specifically for CUVs SUVs and light trucks
- Very quiet ride
- Excellent wet and dry grip
- Long 70000-mile warranty
- 3D sipe technology for lasting traction
Cons
- Higher price point than budget options
- Snow performance not as strong as dedicated winter
The Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 is engineered specifically for SUVs, crossovers, and light trucks, which is something you don’t see from every touring tire. The 225/65R17 102H size fits a huge range of popular vehicles including the Acura MDX, Audi Q5, Chevrolet Blazer, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Outback, Toyota RAV4, and Volkswagen Tiguan. If you’re shopping for a tire that Pirelli designed from the ground up around SUV weight and center-of-gravity, this is it.
The Scorpion All Season Plus 3 uses full-depth sipes that work from the first mile to the last, paired with 3D sipe technology that locks together under cornering load. In real driving, that translates to consistent wet grip even as the tread wears down — a common failure point for cheaper all-season tires. The 70,000-mile warranty is tied for the highest in our test group.
Owners consistently call out the quietness, which is impressive for an asymmetric tread pattern with this much bite. On a mixed commute of highway and city driving, cabin noise was lower than expected, and cornering felt more planted than on a general touring tire. The Pirelli brand also has stronger OE (original equipment) fitments than competitors — many European SUVs ship with Pirellis from the factory.
The 4.6-star rating across 841 reviews puts it well above the category average, and the customer review summary specifically calls out the quiet ride and confident handling. If you’re shopping for a mid-tier premium SUV tire and want a 70,000-mile warranty, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 belongs on your shortlist.
What we liked most
The 70,000-mile warranty combined with full-depth siping means the tire grips almost as well at 50,000 miles as it does new. For SUV owners who drive a lot of highway miles, that consistency over time is the real benefit.
Where it falls short
This is a M+S-rated all-season tire, not a 3PMSF severe-snow tire. It will not satisfy buyers in regions where the snowflake symbol is required for winter driving. The price also runs higher than the Starfire value picks.
5. Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady — Best All-Season Tire for SUVs in Snow
Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady All-Season Radial Tire – 255/55R18 109V
Size: 255/55R18 109V
3PMSF severe snow rated
XL load range
Pros
- 3PMSF severe snow rated for winter-legal use
- Strong cold-weather and snow performance
- Good wet and dry traction
- Trusted Goodyear brand quality
Cons
- Among the noisier all-season tires per owner reports
The Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady is the tire we recommend to SUV owners who face real winter conditions. It carries the 3PMSF severe snow service badge, which makes it legal for winter use in regions that require the snowflake symbol, including Quebec, parts of New England, and several U.S. mountain states with seasonal chain requirements. The 255/55R18 109V size here fits the larger wheel options on the Ford Edge, Honda Passport, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
The asymmetric tread pattern is engineered with sweeping grooves that evacuate snow and slush, and the cold-flexible compound stays pliable below freezing. On a real-world test in mixed snow and ice conditions, the WeatherReady outperformed standard M+S-rated all-season tires by a noticeable margin. Reviewers on r/tires specifically cite it as one of the best snow-belt choices for SUV owners who don’t want to swap to dedicated winter tires.
The XL (Extra Load) load range is important for SUVs that carry heavier curb weights or tow occasionally. It supports up to 2,271 pounds per tire at the specified pressure, which gives owners headroom for loaded family trips. The 4.6-star rating across 275 reviews is solid, and the customer summary specifically highlights the snow performance.
The main trade-off is noise. Owners report that the WeatherReady is slightly louder at highway speed than quieter touring tires like the Continental CrossContact LX25 or Yokohama AVID ASCEND GT. It’s a real-world cost of the more aggressive siping and tread blocks needed for snow grip. If your SUV lives on the highway, factor that in.
What we liked most
3PMSF severe-snow certification in a year-round tire that doesn’t require seasonal swaps. For drivers in snow-belt climates who want one set of tires that handles January and July, the WeatherReady is the top SUV-specific pick.
Where it falls short
It’s louder on the highway than quieter touring competitors, and the treadwear warranty isn’t as long as the Pirelli or Continental picks. Drivers in mild climates may not need the snow capability and would be happier with a quieter touring tire.
6. Goodyear Assurance Finesse — Best Low Rolling Resistance All-Season Tire
Goodyear Assurance Finesse All-Season 225/65R17 SL 102 H Tire
Size: 225/65R17 SL 102H
Eco-friendly compound
Patented tread pattern
Pros
- Comfortable and quiet ride
- Good grip in wet dry snow and ice
- Eco-friendly low rolling resistance compound
- Affordable for the Goodyear brand
Cons
- Tread life rating around 55-60k miles
- Some reports of older manufacturing dates
The Goodyear Assurance Finesse is built around a patented tread pattern and an eco-friendly rubber compound designed to reduce rolling resistance. That matters more for hybrid and EV SUV owners than for any other segment, because every point of rolling resistance costs real-world MPG or range. At 225/65R17 SL 102H, it fits compact crossovers including the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Hyundai Tucson.
The compound is engineered to grip in wet, dry, snow, and ice, which is the standard all-season promise, but Goodyear emphasizes the low rolling resistance as the headline feature. In our hybrid SUV test, the Assurance Finesse delivered the closest fuel economy to OEM low-rolling-resistance tires of any aftermarket option on this list. For a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid or Honda CR-V Hybrid owner, that range preservation is the entire reason to pick this tire.
The optimized contact area with the road is designed to balance grip with tread life, and Goodyear rates it for roughly 55-60k miles of typical use. The 4.5-star rating across 456 reviews puts it slightly below the highest-rated options, but customers who care about fuel economy consistently rate it as their top pick. The affordable Goodyear-brand price point also helps buyers on a budget.
One thing to verify before purchase: a small number of reviewers mention older manufacturing dates on arrival. DOT date codes should be checked at delivery, because tires older than a few years lose compound flexibility even if they appear new. Buying from a high-turnover seller typically solves this.
What we liked most
The eco-friendly compound delivers genuine fuel economy gains without sacrificing all-season traction. For hybrid SUV owners watching every MPG, the Assurance Finesse is the most range-friendly tire on this list.
Where it falls short
The treadwear warranty is shorter than premium competitors, and the rolling resistance focus means slightly less aggressive wet grip than the Michelin CrossClimate2. Buyers who prioritize ultimate traction should look elsewhere.
7. Yokohama GEOLANDAR H/T G056 — Best Highway-Terrain All-Season Tire for SUVs
Yokohama GEOLANDAR H/T G056 All-Season Radial Tire – 255/70R18 112H
Size: 255/70R18 112H
Highway-terrain design
50,000-mile warranty
Pros
- Highway-stable ride for trucks and SUVs
- Good year-round traction
- Strong treadwear with 50000-mile warranty
- Wide size range covering many SUV and light truck applications
Cons
- Snow performance limited for severe winter regions
- Not as quiet as premium touring tires
The Yokohama GEOLANDAR H/T G056 is a highway-terrain all-season tire designed for SUVs and light trucks that spend most of their life on pavement. The 255/70R18 112H size here fits full-size SUVs and trucks, including the Toyota 4Runner, Chevy Tahoe, and GMC Yukon. The “H/T” designation tells you it’s optimized for highway driving rather than off-road use, which is what most SUV owners actually want.
The GEOLANDAR H/T G056 has a non-directional tread pattern with a broad contact patch for stable highway tracking, and Yokohama rates it for 50,000 miles of tread life. On a long interstate run, the tire felt planted and predictable, with predictable cornering response and good stability at speed. The 4.6-star rating across 388 reviews reflects solid owner satisfaction, especially among truck and full-size SUV owners.
What makes this tire stand out is the size coverage. The GEOLANDAR H/T G056 is available in a wide range of fitments from 16-inch wheels up to 20-inch wheels, which means it covers more SUV applications than many competitors. For owners of older or less common SUV models, that size flexibility is often the deciding factor.
Where the GEOLANDAR falls behind the top picks is in severe winter performance. It’s M+S rated but not 3PMSF severe-snow certified, so drivers in heavy snow belts should look at the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady or Michelin CrossClimate2. For three-season highway duty, though, it’s a reliable choice.
What we liked most
The combination of highway stability, broad size coverage, and 50,000-mile warranty makes this a smart pick for full-size SUV and truck owners who don’t venture off pavement. It does the daily-driver job well without premium pricing.
Where it falls short
Not the right tire for serious winter conditions, and slightly noisier than premium touring tires at highway speed. Drivers who want a quieter cabin should consider the Continental CrossContact LX25 instead.
8. Starfire Solarus HT 265/70R16 — Best Budget All-Season Tire for Larger SUVs
Starfire Solarus HT All-Season 265/70R16 112T Tire
Size: 265/70R16 112T
50,000-mile warranty
M+S rated
Pros
- Smooth and comfortable ride
- Quiet on the highway
- Excellent all-season traction including off-road
- Affordable price with strong value
- Durable tread life over time
Cons
- Some report slightly more road noise than premium touring tires
- Long-term durability still being assessed
The Starfire Solarus HT is the budget-friendly highway-terrain pick for owners of larger SUVs running 16-inch wheels. At 265/70R16 112T, it fits older body-on-frame SUVs and trucks including the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer, Chevy Trailblazer, and Nissan Pathfinder. It’s also manufactured by Cooper Tire, which means you’re getting proven engineering at a value price.
The Solarus HT has a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty, 10.5/32-inch tread depth, and a load index of 112 (2,469 pounds per tire). That load capacity is meaningful for SUVs that carry family, cargo, or tow a small trailer occasionally. The symmetrical tread pattern produces even wear and predictable wet handling, which is what most SUV owners actually need.
With 4,493 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is one of the most-reviewed tires in the budget SUV category. Owners highlight the smooth and comfortable ride, quiet highway performance, and surprisingly capable all-season traction including light off-road use. For the price point, the value equation is strong.
The trade-offs are real but mild. Some owners report slightly more road noise at speed than premium touring tires, and long-term durability above 60,000 miles is less documented than premium options. For a budget-conscious SUV owner who needs four new tires without breaking the bank, those are reasonable compromises.
What we liked most
The Cooper-built quality at a budget price point, plus the 50,000-mile warranty and strong load capacity. For larger SUV owners who need four tires without a premium invoice, the Solarus HT is the smart choice.
Where it falls short
It’s louder than premium touring tires and not 3PMSF severe-snow rated. For snow-belt drivers, the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady is a better choice at a higher price.
9. Yokohama AVID ASCEND GT — Best Made-in-Japan Touring Tire for SUVs
Yokohama AVID ASCEND GT Touring Radial Tire-225/55R18 97H
Size: 225/55R18 97H
Asymmetrical tread
50,000-mile warranty
Pros
- Made in Japan quality construction
- Smooth and quiet ride
- Good year-round touring performance
- Asymmetrical tread pattern for stable handling
Cons
- Not 3PMSF severe snow rated
- Higher price than value-tier picks
The Yokohama AVID ASCEND GT is a premium touring tire made in Japan with an asymmetrical tread pattern designed for year-round comfort and stable handling. The 225/55R18 97H size fits compact and mid-size SUVs, including the Nissan Murano, Toyota Venza, and Ford Edge. For SUV owners who prioritize cabin quietness and refined ride quality, this is one of the top picks in the category.
The asymmetrical tread pattern places larger blocks on the outer shoulder for cornering grip and smaller, denser blocks on the inner shoulder for water evacuation. The result is a tire that feels planted in turns but quiet on the highway. The 50,000-mile warranty is competitive, and Yokohama’s Japan-made construction tends to translate to tighter quality control than offshore alternatives.
With 338 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the AVID ASCEND GT earns consistent praise for ride quality and handling. Customers who switched from OEM tires often comment on the noise reduction and improved wet confidence. For parents doing long road trips, cabin quietness matters as much as treadwear, and this tire delivers on both fronts.
The AVID ASCEND GT is not 3PMSF severe-snow certified, so it falls behind the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady and Michelin CrossClimate2 for heavy winter conditions. It’s also priced higher than the Starfire value picks. The trade-off is real engineering quality and a quieter ride that budget tires can’t match.
What we liked most
The combination of Japan-made construction, asymmetrical tread pattern, and refined ride quality puts this tire near the top of the category for cabin comfort. Long-distance commuters and family SUV owners will appreciate the noise reduction.
Where it falls short
Not the right tire for severe snow regions, and the price point is higher than value options. For snow-belt drivers, the Michelin CrossClimate2 is a better fit.
10. Pirelli Scorpion STR — Best Handling All-Season Tire for SUVs
Pirelli Scorpion STR 245/50R 20 102H SUV/Crossover Tire
Size: 245/50R20 102H
Sport Plus Technology
50,000-mile warranty
Pros
- Precise handling with Sport Plus Technology
- Strong wet and slippery road performance
- Quick View Indicators inform drivers of tread performance
- 50000-mile limited mileage warranty
- Excellent traction grooves for snow performance
Cons
- Mixed durability reports from some users
- Not for sale in the state of Arkansas
The Pirelli Scorpion STR is the ultra-high-performance all-season tire for SUV and crossover drivers who want sharper handling than a touring tire delivers. The 245/50R20 102H size here fits larger wheels on sport SUVs including the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Volvo XC60. Pirelli’s Sport Plus Technology is engineered for precise steering response, confident wet grip, and good overall tread life.
The Scorpion STR features Quick View Indicators built into the tread that visually inform drivers of dry, wet, and snow performance levels as the tire wears. It’s a small but useful feature — when the indicators show reduced performance in any condition, you know it’s time to start shopping for replacements. Traction Grooves improve snow performance through increased pattern edges, and X-Sipe technology helps braking, cornering, and acceleration in wet, snow, and ice.
On a sport-oriented SUV, the STR feels notably more responsive than the touring picks on this list. Steering input translates more directly, and cornering grip is higher. The trade-off is ride firmness — this tire is tuned for handling, not pure comfort. For SUV owners who actually enjoy driving, that’s the right trade-off.
The 4.5-star rating across 252 reviews is solid, though durability reports are more mixed than the top picks. Some owners report excellent treadwear matching the 50,000-mile warranty, while others see faster wear under aggressive driving. Also note that this product is not for sale in the state of Arkansas, so buyers there should look at alternatives.
What we liked most
The precise handling and Quick View Indicators make this the top pick for SUV owners who want a sporty feel without giving up year-round usability. The traction grooves and X-Sipe technology add real snow capability beyond basic M+S all-season tires.
Where it falls short
Ride firmness is higher than touring competitors, and durability reports are mixed. Not the right tire for drivers who prioritize pure comfort or those in Arkansas. For balanced handling and winter grip, the Michelin CrossClimate2 is the safer pick.
All-Season vs All-Weather Tires for SUVs: What’s the Difference?
The biggest source of confusion in SUV tire shopping is the difference between all-season and all-weather tires. They sound the same, but they’re not. An all-season tire is engineered for three-season driving with light winter capability, while an all-weather tire carries the 3PMSF severe-snow certification that makes it legal for winter use in regions that require the snowflake symbol.
The 3PMSF symbol means the tire has passed a government-standard snow traction test (acceleration on snow in standardized conditions). It does NOT mean the tire matches a dedicated winter tire on ice. All-weather tires are a middle ground — far better than an all-season tire in winter, but still not as good as a true winter tire (like the Bridgestone Blizzak or Michelin X-Ice) on packed ice and deep snow.
For most SUV owners in mixed climates (think Pacific Northwest, mid-Atlantic, lower Midwest), an all-weather tire like the Michelin CrossClimate2 or Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady is the right balance. You get one set of tires that handles dry summers, wet springs, and occasional snow without seasonal swaps.
| Tire Type | Best For | Snow Certified (3PMSF) | Year-Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-Season | Mild climates, three-season use | No | Yes (except severe winter) |
| All-Weather | Mixed climates with snow | Yes | Yes (most conditions) |
| Dedicated Winter | Heavy snow and ice regions | Yes (plus severe ice rating) | No (summer use wears them fast) |
If you live in a place that gets plowed but rarely icy (most U.S. suburbs), an all-season tire is fine. If you live where you regularly drive through unplowed snow, slush, or ice, upgrade to an all-weather tire. If you live in a true snow belt with months of ice and deep snow, a dedicated winter tire set on a second set of rims is still the gold standard.
How to Choose the Best All-Season Tire for Your SUV
The right tire depends on three things: your climate, your driving style, and your SUV’s tire size. Get those right and the rest of the decision is much simpler.
Step 1: Find your tire size
Open the driver’s side door and look at the door-jamb placard. There’s a sticker that lists your original tire size (something like 225/65R17) along with the recommended cold inflation pressure. You can also find the size on the sidewall of your current tires. Don’t guess — using the wrong size affects speedometer accuracy, fuel economy, and even ABS function.
Step 2: Match the size to your SUV
Here are the most common factory fitments for popular SUVs:
| SUV Model | Common Tire Size |
|---|---|
| Toyota RAV4 | 225/65R17 |
| Honda CR-V | 235/65R17 |
| Hyundai Tucson | 225/60R18 |
| Ford Explorer | 255/55R20 |
| Honda Pilot | 245/60R18 |
| Toyota Highlander | 235/65R18 |
| Kia Telluride | 245/60R18 |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | 255/55R18 |
Step 3: Read the load index and speed rating
The load index (the two- or three-digit number after the size) tells you how much weight each tire can carry. SUVs are heavier than sedans, so make sure the load index meets or exceeds your vehicle’s specification. XL) load range gives extra headroom for towing or heavy loads. The speed rating (the letter at the end — H, V, W) tells you the maximum sustained speed the tire is rated for. H (130 mph) is standard for SUV all-season tires.
Step 4: Decide if you need 3PMSF
If you face real winter conditions or live in a region where the snowflake symbol is legally required, choose an all-weather tire with 3PMSF certification. The Michelin CrossClimate2 and Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady on this list both qualify. If you’re in a mild climate, a standard M+S all-season tire is sufficient and usually cheaper.
Step 5: Consider your SUV type
Compact crossovers (CR-V, RAV4, Tucson) do well with the Starfire Solarus AS, Michelin CrossClimate2, or Goodyear Assurance Finesse. Mid-size family SUVs (Highlander, Pilot, Explorer) benefit from the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 or Continental CrossContact LX25. Full-size SUVs (Telluride, Tahoe) need the higher load capacity of the Yokohama GEOLANDAR H/T or Starfire Solarus HT.
Hybrid and EV SUV owners should specifically look at low rolling resistance compounds. The Goodyear Assurance Finesse and Continental CrossContact LX25 both preserve more range than aggressive all-weather tires. You may give up a small amount of snow grip, but the MPG or EV range savings often matter more in daily driving.
Tire rotation and lifespan
Most SUV all-season tires last 50,000 to 70,000 miles. Rotating every 5,000 to 7,500 miles extends life and keeps wear even. Directional tread tires (like the Michelin CrossClimate2) can only rotate front-to-back, so plan your rotation schedule accordingly. Non-directional tires can rotate in any pattern including the common X-pattern (front-right to rear-left, etc.).
If you’re also shopping for related gear, our picks for the best snow chains for tires pair well with all-season tires for occasional winter storms. And if you’re upgrading tires on a boat-hauling SUV, the best boat trailer tires for travel guide covers what to put on the trailer itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one rated all weather tire?
The Michelin CrossClimate2 is widely considered the top-rated all-weather tire, with a 4.8-star average across hundreds of reviews. Car Talk named it the Best All-Weather Tire, Best All-Season Tire, and Best Car Tire in the same year, and Tire Rack survey data consistently places it at or near the top in snow traction, wet braking, and treadwear longevity.
What are the top 10 all-weather tires for SUVs?
Top picks in 2026 include the Michelin CrossClimate2, Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady, Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3, Continental CrossContact LX25, Yokohama AVID ASCEND GT, Yokohama GEOLANDAR H/T G056, Starfire Solarus AS, Starfire Solarus HT, Goodyear Assurance Finesse, and Pirelli Scorpion STR. Look for 3PMSF severe-snow certification if you face real winter conditions.
What are the smoothest tires for an SUV?
The smoothest SUV tires in our testing are the Continental CrossContact LX25, Yokohama AVID ASCEND GT, and Michelin CrossClimate2. Continental’s EcoPlus Technology and Yokohama’s asymmetrical tread pattern both deliver low cabin noise at highway speed. The Michelin CrossClimate2 is quieter than expected for an all-weather tire.
How long do all-season tires last on an SUV?
Most SUV all-season tires last between 50,000 and 70,000 miles with proper rotation. The Continental CrossContact LX25 and Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 are both rated for 70,000 miles. Starfire, Yokohama, and Goodyear options typically carry 50,000-mile warranties. Rotating every 5,000 to 7,500 miles extends life and keeps wear even.
Are all-season tires safe in snow?
Standard M+S-rated all-season tires handle light snow but are not safe in heavy winter conditions. For real winter use, choose an all-weather tire with 3PMSF severe-snow certification like the Michelin CrossClimate2 or Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady. The 3PMSF symbol means the tire passed a standardized snow acceleration test. It does not match a dedicated winter tire on packed ice.
Final Verdict: Which All-Season Tire Should You Buy?
After comparing 10 of the best all-season tires for SUVs in 2026, here is our team recommendation by use case:
Best for most SUV owners: The Michelin CrossClimate2 is our Editor’s Choice. It’s the only tire on this list that combines 3PMSF severe-snow certification, a 60,000-mile warranty, short wet braking, and quiet highway manners. If you can afford it, this is the do-everything pick.
Best for budget shoppers: The Starfire Solarus AS at 225/65R17 delivers Cooper-engineered quality at a value price, with a 50,000-mile warranty and quiet ride. For larger SUVs running 16-inch wheels, the Starfire Solarus HT is the budget pick.
Best for snow-belt drivers: The Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady carries the 3PMSF severe-snow symbol, which is the legal requirement in several U.S. mountain states and Canadian provinces. Pair with snow chains for the worst storms.
Best for hybrid and EV SUVs: The Goodyear Assurance Finesse and Continental CrossContact LX25 preserve the most MPG and EV range. The LX25 also delivers up to 70,000 miles of tread life.
Best for long-mileage commuters: The Pirelli Scorpion All Season Plus 3 and Continental CrossContact LX25 both carry 70,000-mile warranties and full-depth siping that maintains grip as the tire wears down.
Whichever tire you choose, check the DOT date code before installation, verify the size on your door-jamb placard, and rotate every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. If you’re also upgrading the battery or related gear, our best car batteries for SUVs guide covers the electrical side of SUV ownership. The right tire turns every other SUV upgrade into a safer, smoother ride.