What are the best tires for my SUV?

car, hiver, pneu, tire, voiture - 13/10/2022

SUVs are everywhere and have been dominating the sales market for years already.

A question we often get from our customers is:
What are the best tires for my SUV?

The answer depends on several factors!

The key to choosing a tire for an SUV is how the car is used. Some people have this kind of vehicle for convenience, cargo space, 5, 7 or even 8 passengers, etc. These consumers do not have the same needs as someone who is an off-road enthusiast.

From the outset, we can recommend taking the following steps:

1. Determine your needs

Start by targeting your busiest road needs. Highways? Town? Country roads? There is a tire that will stand out in each of these circumstances.

Ask to see the tire, look at its design. Small blocks with lots of slats will work for ice and help keep the ride quiet. Big blocks on the sides will have more bite in the snow but will be louder on the highway.

How many km do you do per winter? Between 2000 km, 3000 km? An entry-level tire will probably meet your needs. You drive 25,000 km or more, it would be better to opt for a top-of-the-range tire that will be less likely to wear out quickly.

2. Establish your budget and plan accordingly

Some SUVs come standard with 19, 20, 21 and even 22-inch tires! You must therefore plan your budget accordingly because for some 22-inch tires. For example, you will have to pay over $600 per tire... That's $2,400 without installation and without taxes!

3. Shop!

Find out about the quality of the desired product. Ask questions. Shopping for tires for a vehicle is also a matter of customer service. How are you received?

Do you buy your tires and leave with them under your arms without being able to have a fitting appointment that suits you?

Take the time to choose the right workshop that will meet your quality criteria.

Get a written quote, not just a verbal quote.

4. Swap

This element is often overlooked by motorists. If you drive a lot, plan to do a rotation in the middle of the season to ensure even wear on your tires, especially when towing a trailer/trailer.

5. What about all-season tires in all of this?

These tires have the snowflake symbol on the side and are approved for summer and winter use.

Although there are some nice options on the market, beware of poor-quality imitations. Choose well-known brands.

Do not forget either that an approved tire will be less efficient in terms of water evacuation in summer and will be less efficient in winter in cold weather because the rubber will be less flexible. Adapt your driving!

Finally, SUVs have a higher mass and a higher center of gravity, it is recommended to choose a tire with a higher load rating. The load rating is shown following the measurements on the sidewall of the tire. This will help the handling of the vehicle by keeping it more stable when cornering.