Best All Terrain Tires For Fuel Economy

Choosing all-terrain (AT) tires for your truck, SUV, or crossover is often a trade-off. You gain off-road capability and a rugged look, but usually at the expense of fuel economy. The deeper tread patterns and stronger sidewalls of AT tires typically increase rolling resistance and add weight, both of which can negatively impact MPG. However, advancements in tire technology are blurring the lines, allowing for AT tires that offer a reasonable balance between off-road performance and fuel efficiency. This article will explore how to choose the best all-terrain tires without completely sacrificing your wallet at the pump.

Understanding the Factors Affecting Fuel Economy

Before diving into specific tire recommendations, it’s crucial to understand the key factors that contribute to fuel consumption when considering all-terrain tires.

Rolling Resistance

Rolling resistance is the force required to keep a tire rolling. Think of it like trying to push a heavy barrel up a hill – the steeper the hill (or the rougher the surface of the tire), the harder it is to push. Several aspects of a tire contribute to rolling resistance:

• Tread Pattern: Aggressive, deep treads designed for mud and rocks increase rolling resistance. The more the tread blocks deform as the tire rolls, the more energy is lost as heat. Think about a mud tire on a Jeep Wrangler compared to the street tires that come on a Honda CR-V; the Wrangler's tires need much more force to roll on pavement.
• Tire Compound: The rubber compound itself plays a role. Softer compounds generally offer better grip but tend to have higher rolling resistance. Harder compounds, while potentially lasting longer, typically roll more efficiently.
• Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires drastically increase rolling resistance. Imagine trying to ride a bike with a flat tire; it takes much more effort. Regularly checking and maintaining proper tire pressure is vital, not just for fuel economy but also for tire wear and safety. Refer to the sticker on your driver's side door jamb or your owner's manual for the recommended pressure for your vehicle.
• Tire Weight: Heavier tires require more energy to accelerate and decelerate. AT tires are often heavier than their highway-terrain counterparts due to their reinforced construction.

Tire Weight

Weight is another significant factor. A heavier tire requires more energy to get moving and to stop. This is especially noticeable during stop-and-go city driving. Consider a Toyota Tacoma. Upgrading to a larger, heavier AT tire not only increases rolling resistance but also makes the engine work harder to accelerate the truck, particularly when starting from a standstill at a red light.

Aerodynamics

While less directly related to the tire itself,aerodynamics also come into play, especially at highway speeds. Larger, more aggressive tires can slightly alter the airflow around your vehicle, increasing drag. This effect is usually less pronounced than the impact of rolling resistance and weight but is worth considering.

Key Considerations for Choosing Fuel-Efficient AT Tires

Given the factors above, here are some strategies for selecting all-terrain tires that minimize the impact on fuel economy:

Look for Tires with a Less Aggressive Tread Pattern

The key here is balance. You don't need a full-blown mud-terrain tire if you primarily drive on paved roads with occasional off-road excursions. A less aggressive AT tire with a tighter tread pattern will significantly reduce rolling resistance. Look for tires with smaller tread blocks, less void space between the blocks, and a shallower overall tread depth. Many manufacturers now offer "hybrid" tires that bridge the gap between all-terrain and highway terrain, providing decent off-road grip while prioritizing on-road performance and fuel efficiency. The Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail, for example, is designed for crossovers and smaller SUVs and offers a more road-friendly design than the more aggressive Wildpeak A/T3W.

Consider Tire Weight

Pay attention to the listed weight of the tire. Lighter tires will generally improve fuel economy. Research different brands and models within the same size to compare weights. A difference of just a few pounds per tire can add up. One strategy is to stick with the factory tire size. Going larger will almost always result in a heavier tire. For example, if your Subaru Outback comes with 225/65R17 tires, sticking with that size when choosing an AT tire will help minimize the weight penalty.

Choose the Correct Tire Size

As mentioned above, tire size matters. While it might be tempting to upsize for a more aggressive look, larger tires almost always weigh more and have greater rolling resistance. They can also negatively affect your speedometer and odometer readings. Sticking to the recommended tire size for your vehicle, or choosing a slightly narrower tire within the acceptable range, can help maintain fuel economy. Consult your owner's manual or a reputable tire shop for size recommendations.

Optimize Tire Pressure

This cannot be overstated. Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for fuel economy, tire wear, and safety. Check your tire pressure regularly (at least once a month, and before long trips) using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Inflate your tires to the pressure recommended on the sticker on your driver's side door jamb, not the maximum pressure listed on the tire sidewall. Remember that tire pressure decreases in cold weather, so adjust accordingly. A good Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is also a valuable tool.

Consider a Highway Terrain (HT) Tire with Some Off-Road Capability

If your off-road driving is limited to well-maintained gravel roads or light trails, a highway terrain (HT) tire with some off-road features might be a better option than a full-fledged AT tire. HT tires are designed for on-road comfort, fuel efficiency, and long tread life. Some HT tires, like the Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revo 3, offer decent grip on light off-road surfaces while still providing excellent on-road performance.

Examples of All-Terrain Tires Known for Fuel Efficiency

While no AT tire will match the fuel economy of a dedicated highway tire, some models are designed with fuel efficiency in mind. Here are a few examples:

• Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail: Specifically designed for crossovers and smaller SUVs, this tire prioritizes on-road comfort and fuel efficiency while still offering decent off-road capability. It features a less aggressive tread pattern and a lighter weight compared to traditional AT tires.
• Goodyear Wrangler UltraTerrain AT: Offered as an option on some Jeep models, this tire strikes a good balance between on- and off-road performance. It features a moderately aggressive tread pattern and is designed to be relatively quiet on the road.
• Michelin LTX A/T 2: While technically a light truck tire, the LTX A/T 2 is a popular choice for SUVs and trucks that see mostly on-road use. It offers excellent ride comfort, long tread life, and relatively low rolling resistance for an AT tire.

Practical Takeaways

Here are some actionable steps you can take to choose fuel-efficient all-terrain tires and maximize your MPG:

1. Assess your driving needs: Honestly evaluate how much off-road driving you actually do. If it's less than 20% of your total mileage, consider a less aggressive AT tire or even a highway terrain tire with some off-road capability.
2. Research tire specifications: Pay attention to the tire's weight, tread depth, and rolling resistance ratings (if available). Compare different brands and models to find the best balance between off-road performance and fuel efficiency.
3. Stick to the recommended tire size: Avoid the temptation to upsize unless you're willing to accept a significant decrease in fuel economy.
4. Maintain proper tire pressure: Check and adjust your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires drastically reduce fuel economy.
5. Consider a professional alignment: A misaligned vehicle can cause uneven tire wear and increase rolling resistance. Get your vehicle aligned regularly, especially after off-road driving.
6. Drive conservatively: Aggressive acceleration and braking consume more fuel. Smooth, consistent driving will help improve your MPG, regardless of the tires you choose.

Choosing the right all-terrain tire is about finding the right balance between off-road capability and on-road efficiency. By understanding the factors that affect fuel economy and following the tips outlined in this article, you can select tires that meet your needs without breaking the bank at the gas pump. Remember to prioritize safety and handling in all driving conditions, and consult with a reputable tire professional if you have any questions.