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India’s love affair with cars has undergone a dramatic transformation. Once dominated by fuel-efficient hatchbacks, the Indian automobile industry has witnessed a phenomenal rise in SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicles). Data speaks volumes: In FY24, SUVs accounted for a whopping 50.4% share of the domestic car market, surpassing hatchbacks (27.8%) and sedans (9%) for the first time. This is a significant jump from just 32% in FY21, highlighting the rapid SUV adoption. SUVs are no longer limited to off-roading enthusiasts. They’ve become aspirational vehicles, offering a sense of power and comfort.
Automakers have capitalized on the SUV craze. They’ve introduced a wider range of SUVs at various price points, from compact and affordable models to feature-rich luxury options. But conquering the road with confidence requires more than just a powerful engine and commanding presence. The true potential of an SUV is unlocked with the perfect set of tyres.
Conquering India’s diverse terrains, SUVs demand versatile tyres that deliver grip on both paved and rough roads, while their higher centre of gravity necessitates robust tyres for stable handling. For fuel-conscious drivers, proper inflation and low rolling resistance are essential, and India’s demanding road conditions call for durable tyres that withstand wear and tear. Choosing the right SUV tyres goes beyond size and brand; consider your weather, driving habits, and terrain to maximize your SUV’s potential for a safe and confident ride.
Now, let’s look at 5 promising SUV tyres currently available in the Indian market:
CEAT CrossDrive AT:
The CEAT CrossDrive AT is an all-terrain tyre that delivers impressive performance on rough roads. Its thick, zig-zag traction grooves provide superior grip in challenging conditions like slush, mud, and sand. This positions the CrossDrive AT as a middle ground between all-terrain (AT) and mud-terrain (MT) tyres, offering a versatile option for drivers who crave both off-road performance and on-road comfort.
But the CrossDrive AT isn’t just for off-road enthusiasts. Developed with India’s diverse landscapes in mind, it delivers a smooth ride with minimal tyre noise on highways. The wide and deep tread pattern effectively ejects stones and debris, ensuring consistent traction across various terrains. The Zig-Zag tread pattern provides improved traction even if tyres are submerged in mud. The Stone ejector technology actively ejects stone, debris and mud thus providing Increased durability by preventing stone trapping.
The CrossDrive AT is also suitable for both 4×4 and 4×2 SUVs, making it a compelling choice for adventure seekers and everyday drivers alike.
If you’re looking for an SUV tyre that offers a balance between off-road capability, on-road comfort, and durability, the CEAT CrossDrive AT is worth considering.
CEAT CrossDrive AT is available in the following sizes: 215/75 R15, 235/70 R16, 265/65 R17, 255/65 R18
For: Drivers seeking a balance between off-road capability, on-road comfort, durability & value for money
Key Features: Budget-friendly, impressive performance on rough roads, superior grip in challenging conditions, wider and deeper tread pattern for consistent traction, Extended Warranty.
Yokohama Geolandar X-AT G016:
The Geolandar X-AT G016 boasts an aggressive tread pattern that isn’t afraid of tough terrain. Deep sidewall lugs and large shoulder blocks provide exceptional grip on loose surfaces like mud, slush, and sand. This aggressive design allows you to venture off the beaten path with confidence.
The Geolandar X-AT G016 caters to SUV drivers who crave a do-it-all tyre. It bridges the gap between off-road capability and on-road comfort. The robust construction and high-quality materials ensure it can withstand the wear and tear of demanding terrains.
For: Adventure seekers who crave off-road dominance
Key Features: Aggressive tread pattern, exceptional grip on loose surfaces, handles diverse terrains.
MRF Wanderer AT:
The MRF Wanderer AT carves a niche in the Indian SUV tyre market, offering a compelling proposition for budget-conscious drivers who prioritize value and good overall performance.
The MRF Wanderer AT strikes a balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. The tread pattern features a combination of elements that provide decent grip on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
The MRF Wanderer AT is designed with a focus on low rolling resistance. This translates to potentially better fuel mileage compared to some more aggressive off-road tyres. While exact figures might vary depending on driving style.
One of the most attractive aspects of the MRF Wanderer AT is its price point. Compared to some of its competitors, it offers a budget-friendly option for SUV owners seeking a good balance of performance without breaking the bank. This makes the Wanderer AT an attractive proposition for those who primarily use their SUV for city driving with occasional forays onto unpaved roads.
For everyday driving with the occasional off-road excursion or navigating rough city roads, the Wanderer AT stands out as a practical and affordable option. It caters to those who prioritize price and a well-rounded performance for everyday driving scenarios.
MRF Wanderer AT is available in the following sizes: 245/75 R16, 235/75 R15, 235/65 R17, 255/65 R18, 265/60 R18, 215/75 R15, 265/60 R18, 255/65 R16, 265/70 R16
For: Price-conscious drivers wanting an all-terrain tyre.
Key Features: Affordable price, good overall performance, low rolling resistance
Apollo Apterra AT2:
Designed for all-terrain performance, the Apollo Apterra AT2 offers a good balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. The tread design efficiently channels water away, enhancing grip on wet roads during monsoon seasons. At the same time, the block design offers good traction on dry surfaces, ensuring confident handling.
The Apterra AT2 isn’t the most aggressive off-road tyre, but it provides competent capability for light off-road adventures. The tread pattern features elements found on both all-terrain (AT) and highway-terrain (HT) tyres, offering a good compromise for drivers who want to explore occasional dirt trails or gravel roads.
While the Apterra AT2 offers a compelling blend of features, it’s important to consider your specific driving habits and terrain encounters. If you crave extreme off-road adventures, a more aggressive mud-terrain (MT) tyre might be a better choice. However, for everyday driving with occasional excursions, the Apterra AT2 is a well-rounded and budget-friendly option.
Apollo Apterra AT2 is available in the following sizes: 215/75 R15, 245/75 R16, 225/70 R15, 235/70 R16, 265/70 R15, 235/75 R15, 245/70 R16, 235/60 R16, 235/70 R16, 235/65 R17, 265/65 R17, 275/65 R17, 265/70 R17, 255/60 R17, 265/70 R16, 265/70 R17, 265/60 R18
For: Drivers who want a blend of on-road comfort and light off-road capability
Key Features: For occasional off-road adventures, low rolling resistance.
Bridgestone Dueler A/T002:
A significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Dueler A/T002 is an all-terrain tyre built for versatility. Bridgestone highlights the tyre’s excellent wet and dry grip, making it a compelling choice for Indian SUV drivers who crave both on-road comfort and off-road capability.
The A/T002 boasts an aggressive tread pattern featuring hexagonal centre blocks and deep shoulder lugs. This design is built to provide enhanced traction on loose surfaces like mud, gravel, and sand.
Bridgestone emphasizes the A/T002’s ability to deliver a comfortable and quiet ride on paved roads. The optimized rib and void distribution along with Z-shaped sipes are designed to reduce road noise.
Bridgestone Dueler A/T002 is available in the following sizes: 215/75 R15, 235/70 R16, 235/65 R17, 245/60 R17, 265/65 R17, 235/60 R18, 245/55 R18, 255/65 R18, 265/60 R18, 285/60 R18
For: Drivers looking for a tyre with on-road comfort and off-road prowess
Key Features: Aggressive tread pattern for enhanced traction, low noise tyre.
The CEAT CrossDrive AT provides a balance between off-road capability and on-road comfort.
It delivers impressive performance on rough roads while maintaining a decent grip on paved surfaces, catering to both city driving and occasional off-road adventures.
Off-Road: The wider and deeper tread pattern with thicker zig-zag grooves provides superior grip in challenging conditions like mud, slush, and sand.
On-Road Comfort: Despite its off-road prowess, the CEAT CrossDrive AT offers a smooth ride on normal city roads as well.
Suitable for both 4×4 and 4×2 SUVs, it boasts a robust construction for tackling India’s diverse landscapes. CEAT CrossDrive AT also comes with an extended warranty. It’s an affordable brand that provides value for money.
Remember, while choosing the right SUV tyre; consider your driving habits and the terrains you’ll encounter most often to find the perfect match for your adventures!
