Last Updated on 4 weeks
Unlocking the Ultimate Driving Experience with the Best 4Runner Tires
Although the car market is overcrowded with SUVs of all shapes and sizes, the number of actual and off-road capable models is deficient. Among those selected few off-roaders you can buy is the Toyota 4Runner, a venerable and rugged SUV, which is more at home on the trail than at the parking lot of your local mall. Introduced over 40 years ago, the 4Runner is in its fifth generation with no signs of stopping. Built on a sturdy chassis and with harsh suspension, the 4Runner is one of the most popular vehicles in its class. That means many customers are looking for the best 4Runner tires to enhance the driving characteristics of their favorite SUV.
If you are one of them, this article is especially helpful because we will help you find the best 4Runner tires and tell you what you need to know when shopping for a set.
Today, we will concentrate on stock tire dimensions and all-weather and off-road choices. Of course, since this is a dedicated off-road model, the 4Runners are often modified to accept more extensive and more aggressive wheel and tire combo. However, we will cover those options in a separate article.
What Is The OEM Tire Size For Toyota 4Runner?
The current 4Runner model has been on the market since 2009, meaning basic drive train options, suspension technology, and engines haven’t changed much during the last 15 years. Tire sizes remained the same, and the model was introduced with base 265/70 R17 rubber. The more aggressive 245/60 R20 tire was optional. Both tires are 32 inches, and Toyota is using Bridgestone Dueler H/T 684 HT as the OEM choice from the factory. However, those tires aren’t a dedicated off-road option and are best for use on paved roads in all weather conditions. Let’s discuss the best 4Runner tires for both urban and off-road use.
What To Consider Before Purchasing Tires For Toyota 4Runner
Before purchasing tires for your Toyota 4Runner, there are several factors to consider to ensure you make an informed decision:
Tire Size:
To determine the correct tire size for your Toyota 4Runner, refer to your vehicle’s manual or the sidewall of your current tires. The size is usually expressed as a series of numbers and letters, such as P265/70R17.
Tire Type:
Decide on the type of tires you need based on your driving habits and conditions. Options include all-season, summer, winter, and all-terrain tires. Consider the typical weather conditions in your area and the terrain you’ll be driving on most frequently.
Tire Performance:
Determine the performance characteristics you prioritize in your tires. Factors to consider include traction, handling, braking distance, and ride comfort. Performance ratings and reviews can help you assess how different tire models perform in these areas.
Tire Brand and Model:
Research reputable tire brands and models are known for their quality, durability, and performance. Look for customer reviews and ratings to gauge the experiences of other Toyota 4Runner owners with specific tire options.
Load Rating and Speed Rating:
Ensure that the tires you choose have an adequate load rating to support the weight of your vehicle and any cargo you typically carry. Additionally, check the speed rating to ensure it meets or exceeds your vehicle’s capabilities.
Tread Life and Warranty:
Consider the expected tread life of the tires and whether they come with a warranty. Longer tread life and comprehensive warranties can provide better value for your investment over time.
Fuel Efficiency:
Some tires are designed to improve fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance. If fuel economy is a priority for you, look for tires with a low rolling resistance rating.
Budget:
Set a budget for your tire purchase and explore options within that price range. While it’s essential to consider cost, prioritize quality and performance to ensure safety and longevity.
Regulatory Compliance:
Ensure your chosen tires meet your region’s relevant safety and regulatory standards. Some overly aggressive off-road tires are not legal in some areas.
Best All-Weather Tires For Toyota 4Runner
Michelin Defender LTX M/S
All-Weather Performance:
The Defender LTX M/S is designed to provide reliable traction and handling in various weather conditions, including dry, wet, and light snow. Its tread design and compound offer consistent performance throughout the year.
Long Tread Life:
Michelin is known for its long-lasting tires, and the Defender LTX M/S is no exception. Its MaxTouch Construction ensures even tread wear, resulting in an extended tread life. This can help you save money in the long run by reducing the frequency of tire replacements.
Comfortable and Quiet Ride:
The tire’s advanced tread pattern and construction create a smooth, quiet driving experience. It effectively absorbs road imperfections, reducing noise and vibrations inside the vehicle.
Enhanced Durability:
The Defender LTX M/S features Michelin’s Evertread compound, which is formulated to provide exceptional durability and resistance to wear. This makes the tire suitable for SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner, which often carry heavy loads or tow trailers.
Fuel Efficiency:
Michelin has engineered the Defender LTX M/S to offer low rolling resistance, which can help improve fuel efficiency. Reducing fuel consumption can lead to cost savings over time.
Available in Various Sizes:
The Defender LTX M/S is available in various sizes to fit different vehicles, including the Toyota 4Runner. This ensures compatibility and allows you to find the right size for your specific vehicle model.
Cooper Discoverer True North
Winter Performance:
The Discoverer True North is precisely engineered to excel in winter driving conditions. Its tread pattern includes deep sipes and lateral grooves that enhance traction on snow and ice, providing confident handling and braking.
Snowflake Mountain Symbol:
This tire meets the requirements for severe snow service and carries the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, indicating its suitability for use in severe winter conditions.
Enhanced Grip:
Cooper utilizes a special tread compound in the Discoverer True North to maintain flexibility in cold temperatures, ensuring consistent grip on icy roads. The tire’s saw-tooth center and zigzag sipe arrangement further enhance traction.
Stability and Control:
The tire’s design includes an interlocking tread block that enhances stability and control, even on slippery surfaces. This helps improve handling and responsiveness in winter driving conditions.
Quiet and Comfortable Ride:
Despite its aggressive winter-oriented tread design, the Discoverer True North is engineered to provide a quiet and comfortable ride. Its optimized tread pattern helps reduce road noise and vibrations, enhancing overall driving comfort.
Available in Various Sizes:
Cooper offers the Discoverer True North in various sizes, including options suitable for the Toyota 4Runner. This ensures compatibility and allows owners to find the right vehicle fit.
Durable Construction:
While primarily focused on winter performance, the Discoverer True North is also built to be durable and reliable. Its construction is designed to withstand the rigors of winter driving, providing peace of mind in challenging conditions.
Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015
All-Terrain Capability:
The Geolandar A/T G015 is engineered to excel on various terrains, including gravel, dirt, mud, and snow. Its aggressive tread pattern features large shoulder blocks and deep grooves to enhance traction and grip in off-road conditions.
On-Road Performance:
Despite its off-road capabilities, the Geolandar A/T G015 also delivers solid performance on paved roads. Its optimized tread pattern and tread compound provide stable handling, responsive steering, and a smooth ride, making it suitable for daily driving.
Winter Performance:
This tire is designed to perform well in winter. Its tread compound is engineered to maintain flexibility in cold temperatures and provide reliable traction on snow and ice. It carries the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, indicating its suitability for severe snow conditions.
Durability and Longevity:
Yokohama designed the Geolandar A/T G015 with durability in mind. It features a reinforced sidewall and robust construction to withstand the rigors of off-road driving and resist cuts and punctures.
Quiet and Comfortable Ride:
Despite its aggressive tread design, the Geolandar A/T G015 is engineered to deliver a quiet and comfortable driving experience on paved roads. Yokohama has optimized the tread pattern and tire construction to reduce road noise and vibrations.
Available in Various Sizes:
Yokohama offers the Geolandar A/T G015 in various sizes, including options suitable for the Toyota 4Runner. This ensures compatibility and allows owners to find the right vehicle fit.
Best Off-Road Tires For Toyota 4Runner
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
Off-Road Traction:
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is renowned for its exceptional off-road traction, making it well-suited for tackling various terrain types, including mud, gravel, dirt, and rocks. Its aggressive tread pattern features interlocking tread blocks and a serrated shoulder design, providing enhanced grip and traction in challenging conditions.
Durability:
BFGoodrich has engineered the KO2 with durability in mind, utilizing a tough sidewall compound and advanced tread design to resist cuts, chips, and punctures. This durability is especially crucial for off-road adventures where rugged terrain can pose risks to tire integrity.
Sidewall Protection:
The KO2 features BFGoodrich’s CoreGard technology, reinforcing the sidewall with a thicker, extended shoulder rubber design. This increases resistance to sidewall damage from rocks, branches, and other off-road obstacles.
Winter Performance:
The BFGoodrich KO2 is also designed to perform well in winter conditions. It carries the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, indicating its suitability for severe snow conditions. The tire’s tread compound maintains flexibility in cold temperatures, ensuring reliable traction on snow and ice.
On-Road Comfort and Handling:
Despite its rugged off-road capabilities, the KO2 delivers a comfortable, controlled ride on paved roads. Its optimized tread design and construction minimize road noise and vibrations, providing a smooth driving experience during daily commutes and highway trips.
Long Tread Life:
The KO2 is known for its long-lasting tread life thanks to its advanced tread compound and construction. Its symmetric tread pattern and even tread wear characteristics ensure extended mileage, offering excellent value over the tire’s life.
Available in Various Sizes:
BFGoodrich offers the All-Terrain T/A KO2 in various sizes, including options suitable for the Toyota 4Runner. This ensures compatibility and allows owners to find the right vehicle fit.
Goodyear Wrangler
Off-Road Performance:
The Wrangler MT/R with Kevlar is engineered to excel in challenging off-road conditions, including mud, rocks, and gravel. Its aggressive tread pattern features large, plunging lugs and an open shoulder design to provide maximum traction and self-cleaning capability.
Kevlar Reinforcement:
This tire is strengthened with DuPont™ Kevlar® fibers in the sidewalls, enhancing its resistance to punctures and cuts from rocks and other obstacles encountered off-road. The Kevlar reinforcement improves overall durability and reliability, making it an ideal choice for rugged terrain.
Traction on Wet Surfaces:
The Wrangler MT/R with Kevlar is designed to maintain traction even on wet surfaces, thanks to its high-void tread pattern and enhanced biting edges. This ensures confident handling and braking in muddy or rainy conditions, providing peace of mind during off-road adventures.
Sidewall Protection:
In addition to Kevlar reinforcement, this tire features a robust sidewall construction that provides added protection against impacts and abrasions. The Durawall™ Technology helps shield the sidewalls from damage, allowing for greater confidence when navigating rocky terrain.
Winter Performance:
While primarily designed for off-road use, the Wrangler MT/R with Kevlar offers decent performance in winter conditions. Its aggressive tread pattern and biting edges provide traction on snow and ice, making it suitable for light to moderate winter driving. However, it’s important to note that it does not carry the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol.
On-Road Stability:
Despite its rugged off-road capabilities, the Wrangler MT/R with Kevlar delivers stable and predictable handling on paved roads. Its optimized tread pattern and center rib design provide responsive steering and reduced road noise, ensuring a comfortable driving experience during daily commutes.
Available in Various Sizes:
Goodyear offers the Wrangler MT/R with Kevlar in various sizes, including options suitable for the Toyota 4Runner. This ensures compatibility and allows owners to find the right vehicle fit.
Cooper Discoverer STT Pro
Off-Road Performance:
The Discoverer STT Pro is engineered to excel in off-road conditions, including mud, rocks, gravel, and sand. Its aggressive tread pattern features large, deep lugs with alternating shoulder elements, providing maximum traction and grip on uneven terrain.
Armor-Tek3 Construction:
Cooper utilizes Armor-Tek3 construction in the Discoverer STT Pro, which includes a 3-ply sidewall and tread reinforcement for enhanced durability and resistance to punctures and cuts. This robust construction helps protect against damage from rocks, debris, and other obstacles encountered off-road.
Stone Ejector Ribs:
The tire’s stone ejector ribs help prevent stone retention and drilling, ensuring that small rocks and debris are expelled from the tread grooves. This helps maintain traction and prevents damage to the tire’s casing and tread surface.
Enhanced Traction on Wet Surfaces:
The Discoverer STT Pro features silica-infused tread compound and deep siping to provide reliable traction on wet surfaces, including mud and rain-soaked trails. This ensures confident handling and braking even in adverse weather conditions.
Winter Performance:
While primarily designed for off-road use, the Discoverer STT Pro offers decent performance in winter conditions. Its aggressive tread pattern and siping provide traction on snow and ice, making it suitable for light to moderate winter driving. However, it’s important to note that it does not carry the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol.
On-Road Stability:
Despite its rugged off-road capabilities, the Discoverer STT Pro delivers stable and predictable handling on paved roads. Its optimized tread design and advanced construction minimize road noise and vibrations, providing a comfortable and controlled ride during daily commuting and highway driving.
Available in Various Sizes:
Cooper offers the Discoverer STT Pro in various sizes, including options suitable for the Toyota 4Runner. This ensures compatibility and allows owners to find the right vehicle fit.
Conclusion
Regardless if you are looking for an off-road or all-weather tire for your 4Runner, you will find it here. Our reviews are written by top industry experts who will help you find the best 4Runner tires at the best prices.
