Finding the perfect set of all-terrain tires for your Toyota 4Runner is about balancing capability with daily comfort. The right tires can significantly enhance your vehicle’s off-road prowess while maintaining a quiet and stable ride on the highway. Whether you’re navigating rocky trails, sandy dunes, or just need confidence in wet weather, your tire choice is the single most important upgrade you can make.
This roundup is designed to help you compare some of the best all-terrain options available. We’ve compiled a list featuring both established industry leaders and impressive value-focused brands to suit a variety of needs and driving styles. From aggressive tread patterns for serious adventurers to more road-biased designs for the weekend warrior, there’s an ideal tire here for your 4Runner.
Our Top All-Terrain Tire Picks for the Toyota 4Runner
- Finalist Terreno A/T 265/70R17 115T SUV All Season All Terrain Tire
- Achilles Desert Hawk AT3 All Terrain 265/70R17 115S SUV/Crossover Tire
- Falken Rubitrek A/T All Terrain 265/70R17 115T Light Truck Tire
- Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus 275/65R20 126S All Terrain Tire
- Yokohama Geolandar A/T4 G018 All Terrain LT275/65R20 126/123S E Light Truck Tire
- TOYO OPEN COUNTRY A/T III – 265/70R17 115T BW
- BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 All-Season Radial Tire
- Falken Wildpeak A/T3W All-Terrain Radial Tire
Finalist Terreno A/T 265/70R17 115T SUV All Season All Terrain Tire
The Finalist Terreno A/T is a strong contender for 4Runner owners seeking a reliable all-season, all-terrain tire. It is designed to provide dependable performance across various road conditions, from dry pavement to light off-road trails. A key benefit is its 50,000-mile limited tread wear warranty, which offers long-term value and peace of mind for daily drivers and frequent travelers.
This tire strikes a balance with its 31.65-inch diameter and 10.71-inch width, making it a suitable fit for many stock 4Runner configurations. The construction is built to handle the demands of an SUV, providing a stable and confident ride. It’s a practical choice for those who need versatile performance without a dedicated off-road focus.
Achilles Desert Hawk AT3 All Terrain 265/70R17 115S SUV/Crossover Tire
The Achilles Desert Hawk AT3 is engineered to deliver a balanced driving experience for light trucks and SUVs like the 4Runner. Its specialized tread pattern and rubber compound are formulated to reduce road noise and provide a smooth, stable ride during highway commutes. This makes it an excellent option for drivers who spend significant time on paved roads but still want off-road capability.
When the pavement ends, this tire offers the aggressive traction needed for navigating more challenging terrains. It is optimized to provide consistent grip and stability on a variety of surfaces, from gravel roads to muddy paths. For the 4Runner owner who values a quiet daily driver that can also handle weekend adventures, the Desert Hawk AT3 is a compelling choice.
Falken Rubitrek A/T All Terrain 265/70R17 115T Light Truck Tire
The Falken Rubitrek A/T brings advanced technology to the all-terrain segment with features like its 3D Canyon Sipe pattern. This design helps manage the torque from powerful vehicles like the 4Runner while significantly improving wet-weather traction, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. Backed by a robust 55,000-mile limited manufacturer tread life warranty, it promises both performance and durability.
Off-road protection is a key focus, with an aggressive sidewall and offset shoulder blocks that help guard against cuts, chips, and punctures from sharp rocks and debris. This combination of on-road refinement, wet-weather safety, and off-road resilience makes the Rubitrek A/T a well-rounded option for the adventurous driver who doesn’t want to compromise on highway manners.
Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus 275/65R20 126S All Terrain Tire
The Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus is a vehicle-specific tire designed to meet the precise requirements of modern SUVs. This fit type ensures optimal integration with your vehicle’s systems for a harmonious performance. With a substantial load capacity of 3,750 pounds, it is well-suited for a loaded 4Runner, whether you’re carrying passengers, gear, or towing.
Pirelli’s reputation for producing high-quality tires is evident in this model, which is built to deliver a confident ride in all seasons. It offers a blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability that many SUV owners look for. For those with 20-inch wheels, the Scorpion All Terrain Plus provides a premium option that doesn’t sacrifice ruggedness for refinement.
Yokohama Geolandar A/T4 G018 All Terrain LT275/65R20 126/123S E Light Truck Tire
The Yokohama Geolandar A/T4 G018 represents the next generation of all-terrain technology, built with durability and all-weather performance as a top priority. Its Geo-Shield technology, combined with dual sidewall protectors and a specialized Enduro-compound, works to enhance the tire’s resistance to cuts, punctures, and general wear. This is an ideal feature for 4Runners that frequently encounter rough and rocky terrain.
Performance on loose surfaces is improved through aggressive center blocks, mud and stone ejectors, and Edgetec Grooves. These elements work together to provide superior traction on dirt, gravel, and even snow, while also helping to clear the tread to maintain grip. This tire is for the serious adventurer who needs maximum capability in a wide range of challenging conditions.
TOYO OPEN COUNTRY A/T III – 265/70R17 115T BW
The TOYO OPEN COUNTRY A/T III is built to provide exceptional traction in a variety of environments, from deep mud and snow to wet rock and dry highways. Its updated tread design features a mix of independent and connected blocks that work to provide a stable footprint and even wear. This tire is engineered for drivers who demand high levels of performance both on and off the road.
Durability is a key characteristic, with a tough construction that resists chipping and tearing. The tread pattern is also designed to remain quiet on pavement, addressing a common concern with all-terrain tires. For the 4Runner owner looking for a proven and aggressive tire that maintains daily driving civility, the OPEN COUNTRY A/T III is a top-tier selection.
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 All-Season Radial Tire
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is a legendary name in the off-road community, known for its rugged toughness and reliable performance. It is engineered with a tough sidewall rubber and advanced tread compound that resists chipping and tearing on harsh terrain. This tire is built to handle the most demanding trails while still providing a controlled ride on the highway.
Its core strength lies in its exceptional traction in mud, snow, and on rocks, thanks to its interlocking tread design and serrated shoulder elements. The KO2 also features stone ejectors that help prevent rocks from getting stuck in the tread grooves. For 4Runner owners who prioritize proven off-road capability and durability above all else, the KO2 remains a benchmark in the all-terrain category.
Falken Wildpeak A/T3W All-Terrain Radial Tire
The Falken Wildpeak A/T3W is designed for the adventurous driver who faces severe weather conditions. It is built with a rugged tread compound and an aggressive pattern that provides reliable traction in snow, rain, and off-road situations. This tire meets the industry’s severe snow service requirements, making it an excellent choice for winter driving.
Beyond its winter prowess, the Wildpeak A/T3W offers features like a heat diffuser technology in the sidewall to help maintain tire integrity under load and a specialized shoulder block design for enhanced off-road traction. It strikes a impressive balance between an aggressive, trail-ready appearance and dependable on-road performance, making it a very popular choice for 4Runner enthusiasts.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best All Terrain Tires for Your Toyota 4Runner
Picking the right set of all terrain tires for your Toyota 4Runner can feel like a big decision. I’ve been through it myself, and the key is to match the tire’s strengths to how you actually use your truck. You don’t want to sacrifice your daily driving comfort for a feature you’ll only use once a year, and you definitely don’t want to get stuck because you chose a tire that wasn’t tough enough for your adventures. Let’s break down what I look for.
First, consider your terrain mix. Are you mostly on pavement with occasional weekend trips to a forest service road? Or are you regularly tackling sharp rocks and deep mud? For mostly highway with light off-roading, an all terrain tire with a less aggressive, quieter tread pattern and a focus on wet weather performance is a great fit. If your 4Runner sees more serious action, you’ll want a tire with a more aggressive sidewall, deeper tread blocks, and self-cleaning capabilities to eject mud and stones.
Next, think about ride quality and noise. All terrain tires have come a long way, but there’s always a trade-off. The more aggressive the tread, the more road hum you’ll typically hear at highway speeds. Some modern designs do an excellent job minimizing this, but if you spend hours on the interstate, it’s a major factor. The tire’s construction also affects ride comfort; a stiffer sidewall is great for off-road durability but can transmit more road imperfections to your cabin.
Load range and size are critical. Your 4Runner has specific requirements. Make sure the load range (like SL, XL, or E) can safely handle the weight of your vehicle, especially if you have a fully loaded overlanding rig. As for size, you can often go a bit larger than stock, but you need to watch for rubbing on the suspension or body, which might require a leveling kit or other modifications. Sticking with your stock size is always a safe and effective bet.
Finally, look at the warranty and user reviews. A strong treadwear warranty can indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in the tire’s longevity on pavement. But just as important are the experiences of other 4Runner owners. They can give you real-world insight into how a specific tire performs in the conditions you care about most. Balancing these factors will help you find the perfect set of all terrain tires for your Toyota 4Runner that fits your budget and your lifestyle.
FAQ
What is the best all-around all terrain tire for a Toyota 4Runner?
This is the most common question, and the answer really depends on your primary use. For a fantastic balance of on-road comfort, low noise, and solid off-road capability for most trails, tires like the Falken Wildpeak AT3W or the Toyo Open Country A/T III are top contenders. They offer excellent wet and winter weather traction without the constant drone of a more aggressive tire, making them ideal for daily drivers that see regular off-pavement action.
Are all terrain tires noisier than highway tires?
Generally, yes. The larger, more open tread blocks on all terrain tires are what create their grip off-road, but they also generate more noise as they roll on pavement compared to a smooth highway tire. However, the technology has improved dramatically. Many modern all-terrain designs, often called “on-road all-terrains,” are very quiet and you might barely notice a difference from the original equipment tires. The most aggressive ones will definitely be louder.
Can I put a larger all terrain tire on my 4Runner without a lift?
Often, yes, but there are limits. Many 5th and 4th gen 4Runner owners can fit a slightly larger tire, like a 275/70R17, without any modifications. However, this can be right on the edge and might cause rubbing at full lock or when the suspension articulates off-road. To be safe and to fit more significant size increases, a leveling kit or a full suspension lift is recommended to prevent damage to your fender liners or body.
How do all terrain tires affect my gas mileage?
You will likely see a decrease in fuel economy. All terrain tires are heavier and have more rolling resistance than standard highway tires due to their thicker construction and deeper tread. The amount of the drop varies by the specific tire and how you drive, but it’s common to see a 1-2 MPG reduction. Choosing a less aggressive, lighter-weight all-terrain can help minimize this impact.
What is the difference between an all terrain and a mud terrain tire?
Think of it as a spectrum. All terrain tires are the jack-of-all-trades, designed for a mix of pavement, gravel, light mud, and snow. Mud terrain (M/T) tires are the specialists. They have extremely aggressive, chunky tread with large voids to clean out thick mud and grip on rocks. The trade-off is that M/T tires are almost always louder on the road, can offer less grip on wet pavement, and often wear out faster. For most 4Runner owners, a good all terrain tire is the more practical choice.