Choosing the right tires for your SUV in 2026 means balancing comfort, safety, and real-world traction across seasons. Below is an original, human-style roundup of the top 10 SUV tires this year – each entry includes what it’s best at and who should consider it. Recommendations are based on the latest 2025-2026 tire testing and expert roundups.
1. Michelin CrossClimate2 – Best all-around all-season for crossovers
A superb, confidence-inspiring all-season tire that blends wet-road braking, predictable handling and good snow traction for many climates. If you drive an everyday crossover or midsize SUV and want one set that handles most conditions without swapping for winter tires, CrossClimate2 is a top pick.
Best for: daily drivers who need year-round convenience and top wet/snow safety.
2. Continental TerrainContact H/T – Best for heavier SUVs & towing
Designed for trucks and larger SUVs, the TerrainContact H/T offers strong wet braking and solid durability under load – a great choice if you tow sometimes or want a tire tuned for highway comfort and stability. Expert roundups show it standing out among larger-vehicle options.
Best for: full-size SUVs, light towing and long highway miles.
3. Pirelli Cinturato WeatherActive – Best all-weather performer
Car and Driver’s recent all-weather tests rank Pirelli’s WeatherActive among the very best for mixed climates: it delivers composed handling in rain and surprising winter capability for an all-weather tire. If you want near-all-season grip without switching tires, this is a smart pick.
Best for: drivers in variable climates who still prioritize on-road refinement.
4. Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV – Best for sporty SUVs
For performance-oriented drivers with luxury or sporty crossovers, the Pilot Sport 4 SUV delivers sharp steering, high grip and confident dry braking-while remaining civilized enough for daily use. Choose this when cornering and braking performance matter most.
Best for: performance SUVs and spirited drivers.
5. Bridgestone WeatherPeak / Turanza family – Best comfort + all-season balance
Bridgestone’s recent all-season entries strike a great balance of ride comfort, low noise and predictable wet handling. If you prioritize a smooth, quiet highway ride with competent year-round grip, Bridgestone is a safe, well-rounded pick.
Best for: long-distance commuters and families.
6. Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady – Best for wet-first climates
Goodyear’s WeatherReady tires showed excellent rain traction and reliable all-weather braking in comparative tests. They’re a solid choice in regions with frequent rain where hydroplaning resistance is a priority.
Best for: rainy climates and drivers concerned about wet braking.
7. Continental CrossContact LX25 – Best practical all-season for everyday SUVs
A tire frequently recommended for crossovers and compact SUVs, the CrossContact LX25 balances treadlife, comfort and handling-making it a common “golden wrench” style pick for everyday ownership. If you want dependable wear and balanced performance, consider this one.
Best for: compact SUVs and drivers wanting long treadlife + comfort.
8. Pirelli Scorpion (All-Season family) – Best upscale / luxury SUV fitment
The Scorpion family (All-Season/Zero variants) is often chosen by premium SUV buyers for its refined ride, strong wet grip and available sizes for larger wheels. It’s a frequent OE choice and works well for owners who want a quiet, premium feel.
Best for: luxury crossovers and style-forward owners.
9. Nokian (winter/all-weather options) – Best for serious winter climates
Nokian builds its reputation on winter performance. For drivers in snowy, icy regions who want excellent cold-weather grip (either via winter or dedicated all-weather models), Nokian remains a top winter-focused option in 2026 testing.
Best for: regular deep-snow or icy-road use.
10. Falken Wildpeak or Yokohama Geolandar (A/T) – Best for light off-road & adventure SUVs
If your SUV sees forest tracks, gravel roads or the occasional overland trip, modern all-terrain options like Falken’s Wildpeak series and Yokohama’s Geolandar A/T lines offer a great mix of off-road bite, highway manners and durability. They’re increasingly common as OEM fitments on “adventure” trims.
Best for: weekend adventurers and light off-road use.
Quick buying tips (short & practical)
- Match the tire to your driving: all-season/all-weather for mixed climates; winter tires for harsh snow; A/T for off-road.
- Prioritize safety metrics: braking distance in wet/snow and hydroplaning resistance matter more than a flashy tread.
- Check treadlife & warranty: higher-rated treadwear and a solid warranty can save money long term.
- Keep sizes and load ratings OEM-correct: don’t oversize without confirming fit and speed/load rating.