The best SUV tyres in 2025, as identified by the experienced editors of WhatTyre
The UK’s love affair with SUVs and crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) shows no signs of abating. These vehicles, with their commanding road presence and higher seating positions, have reshaped the automotive landscape, and with it, the tyre market. According to third-party market data, SUV and 4×4 tyre sales in the UK grew by 8 per cent in 2024, with the over-19-inch segment surging by 12 per cent(see Tyres & Accessories magazine, March 2025). While many CUVs may never venture off-road, their popularity has driven demand for tyres that combine on-road performance, durability, and versatility to handle the UK’s diverse conditions. To identify the best SUV tyres for 2025, we delved into our tyrepedia database, which is comprised of data from hundreds of thousand of references tyres across a few hundred brands. Using our proprietary Tyrescore algorithm and a rigorous selection process, we shortlisted the top performers in the SUV category. This year’s results reflect a dynamic market where established giants compete with a select group of emerging brands.
Precision in selection
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV (Image: Michelin)
Here’s how we determined the 2025 WhatTyre SUV Tyre of the Year and the top seven tyres that made the cut. The WhatTyre Tyre of the Year Awards rely on our Tyrescore algorithm, which begins with the European tyre label data mandatory for all tyres sold in the EU. These labels assess wet grip, fuel efficiency (via rolling resistance), and external pass-by noise, expressed as letter grades. We convert these grades into numerical scores, prioritizing wet grip and fuel efficiency over noise, as these factors are more critical for SUV drivers. Wet grip is essential for safety in the UK’s often rainy conditions, while fuel efficiency addresses both cost and environmental concerns. External noise, while relevant, is less impactful due to vehicle soundproofing and thus takes a backseat in our calculations. Beyond label data, our Tyrescore integrates thousands of European magazine tyre test results, which evaluate a wider range of performance metrics, such as dry handling, braking, and aquaplaning resistance. These tests, conducted by respected publications such as AutoBild and AutoExpress, provide a robust dataset that enhances our analysis. Sustainability is a growing priority too, and we incorporate Environmental, Sustainability, and Governance (ESG) scores from third-party accreditation bodies into our methodology. These scores are aggregated into a single rating per manufacturer, reflecting their commitment to eco-friendly practices. We also award points for Original Equipment (OE) homologation, where tyres are approved by vehicle manufacturers for specific models, signalling high quality and performance.
For the SUV category in particular, we focused on the top three tyre sizes based on 2024 market research: 235/60/18, 235/55/19, and 215/60/17. Together these sizes account for roughly 16 per cent of the UK SUV tyre market. To ensure relevance for SUVs, all shortlisted tyres must have a load rating of 107 or higher to handle the weight and demands of larger vehicles. Only tyres scoring at least 8 out of 10 make the finalist table. At this point it is also worth highlighting that – such is the improving performance of SUV tyres – in 2025, we have raised the bar from 7 out of 10 last year.
Unlike other categories where range-wide consistency is analysed, SUV tyres are judged primarily on their performance in key sizes due to the diverse requirements of vehicles ranging from compact CUVs to more off-road-orientated 4x4s.
As in other categories, we cross reference all this against our Tyrepedia database of thousands of third-party tests as well OE and ESG data. Our shortlist was then finalized by a panel of three independent journalists with 15–20 years of tyre industry experience each, ensuring human expertise is deployed alongside the objective data. The result is a list of tyres that have undergone rigorous scrutiny, making them great choices for SUV drivers.
A new leader takes the wheel
The 2025 SUV tyre category is the most competitive I have witnessed in any category since we started these rankings back in 2019. There are some surprises, but the undisputed winner is the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV.
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV (235/60/18, 107 V, Tyrescore: 9.22)
This year, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV reclaimed the top spot in 2025, having won in 2023 but finishing second in 2024 behind the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6. With an outstanding Tyrescore of 9.22 in the 235/60/18 size, the objective data points exceptional performance, earning a B-A label rating for fuel efficiency and wet grip. Recent AutoBild (March 2025) and AutoBild Allrad (April 2025) tests praise its superior wet handling and short braking distances, particularly in the key size. Michelin’s strong ESG scores and extensive OE homologations solidify its position as WhatTyre’s SUV Tyre of the Year 2025.
- Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV (235/60/18, 107 V, Tyrescore: 8.83)
The Goodyear EfficientGrip 2 SUV takes third place with a Tyrescore of 8.83, a strong showing after the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6’s victory in 2024. This tyre achieves a B-A label rating, with European tests highlighting its fuel efficiency and wet grip. Its performance in the 235/60/18 size is particularly notable, with AutoBild (March 2025) commending its as exemplary. Goodyear’s robust ESG performance and OE homologations keep it competitive, though it faces stiffer competition from other premiums brands such as Michelin.
- Hankook K125A Ventus Prime 3 SUV (235/60/18, 107 V, Tyrescore: 8.55)
Hankook’s K125A Ventus Prime 3 SUV comes in in third place with a Tyrescore of 8.55. Its C-A label rating reflects strong wet grip, and recent magazine tests praise its balanced performance across wet and dry conditions. Designed for SUVs, it offers precise steering and short braking distances, making it a versatile choice. Hankook’s ESG scores and competitive pricing position it as a strong contender.
- Bridgestone Turanza T005 (235/60/18, 107 W, Tyrescore: 8.43)
Another new entrant, the Bridgestone Turanza T005, lands in fourth place with a Tyrescore of 8.43. Its B-A label rating and strong magazine test results, including AutoBild (April 2025), highlight its wet grip and handling prowess. Bridgestone’s investment in SUV tyre development is evident, with the T005 offering a refined balance of performance and comfort. Its solid ESG performance and OE approvals make it a reliable option for premium SUVs.
- Continental PremiumContact 7 (235/60/18, 107 V, Tyrescore: 8.98)
A new entrant in the top seven, the Continental PremiumContact 7 secures fifth with a Tyrescore of 8.36. In 2024, the SportContact 5, ranked fifth but the ContiPremiumContact 6 surpasses it with a B-A label rating and excellent magazine test results suggesting it shines in wet grip and handling, and with AutoBild noting its “exemplary balance” in the 235/60/18 size.
- Maxxis Victra Sport 5 (235/60/18, 107 W, Tyrescore: 8.2)
The Maxxis Victra Sport 5 retains its sixth-place ranking from 2024, improving its Tyrescore to 8.2. Additional magazine tests in 2025, including AutoBild Allrad (March 2025), confirm its quality, with a C-A label rating and strong wet grip performance. Its affordability and durability make it a favourite among budget-conscious SUV drivers. Indeed, with the lowest average price per Tyrescore point, the Maxxis Victra Sport 5 is this year’s 2025 SUV tyre value champion.
- GT Radial FE2 SUV (235/60/18, 107 W, Tyrescore: 8.09)
The GT Radial FE2 SUV enters the top seven for the first time, with a Tyrescore of 8.09. Its C-A label rating and consistent performance in European tests, particularly in wet grip, make it a worthy contender. Designed for compact and mid-size SUVs, it offers reliable handling and affordability. GT Radial’s improving ESG scores and focus on the SUV market signal potential future direction of travel.
[Gear] shifts in the market
The 2025 rankings reflect a dynamic SUV tyre market. Michelin’s Pilot Sport 4 SUV reclaims the crown. Continental’s PremiumContact 7 replaces predecessor products, showing improved performance, while Hankook and Bridgestone enter with strong offerings. Maxxis holds steady, and GT Radial’s debut highlights the rise of budget brands. Others that have previously ranked in the top slots fall out of the running, though it has to be said that this to do with increasing competition rather than decline.
The SUV category’s competitiveness meant several strong tyres narrowly missed the top seven, including the Falken Azenis FK520, Nokian Wetproof SUV, Yokohama BluEarth RV-02, and Pirelli Scorpion Verde tyres. The problem is the high bar set by our criteria combined with the competitiveness of those above underscores the quality of the 2025 shortlist.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV’s victory in 2025 highlights its dominance in delivering premium performance for SUV drivers. The top seven tyres reflect a balance of innovation, safety, and sustainability, catering to the diverse needs of the UK’s growing SUV market. Whether navigating city streets or tackling wet country roads, these tyres offer reliability and excellence. For more details on our methodology or to explore these tyres further, visit tyrepress.com.
