Cooper Discoverer Atp Ii Review

Choosing the right tires for your truck, SUV, or crossover is a crucial decision. Tires impact everything from ride comfort and handling to fuel efficiency and safety. Among the many options available, the Cooper Discoverer ATP II stands out as a popular all-terrain tire designed for a wide range of vehicles and driving conditions. This review aims to provide a comprehensive and unbiased look at the Discoverer ATP II, helping you determine if it's the right tire for your needs.

What is the Cooper Discoverer ATP II?

The Cooper Discoverer ATP II (All-Terrain Performance II) is the successor to the well-regarded Discoverer ATP. It's designed as an all-terrain tire, meaning it's intended to perform well both on paved roads and on moderate off-road surfaces. Cooper has positioned this tire as a versatile option, balancing on-road comfort and handling with off-road traction and durability. This makes it a suitable choice for drivers who spend a significant amount of time on the road but also occasionally venture onto gravel, dirt, or other unpaved surfaces.

Key Features and Technologies

Several key features and technologies contribute to the Cooper Discoverer ATP II's performance:

All-Terrain Tread Pattern: The aggressive tread pattern features large tread blocks and wide grooves designed to provide excellent grip on various surfaces. The open design helps to evacuate water, mud, and snow, improving traction in wet and slippery conditions.
Durable Carcass Construction: Cooper utilizes a robust carcass construction to enhance durability and resist punctures and damage, especially when driving off-road. This makes the tire more resistant to the wear and tear associated with rough terrain.
Stone Ejector Ribs: These ribs are strategically placed within the tread grooves to help eject stones and debris, preventing them from becoming lodged in the tire and potentially causing damage.
Enhanced Wet Traction: The tire compound and tread design are optimized to improve wet traction, providing confident braking and handling in rainy conditions.
Quiet Ride Technology: Despite its aggressive tread pattern, the Discoverer ATP II is designed to minimize road noise, contributing to a more comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
Wear Resistance: The tire compound is formulated to provide long-lasting wear, extending the tire's lifespan and reducing the need for frequent replacements.

On-Road Performance

For many drivers, on-road performance is the primary concern. The Cooper Discoverer ATP II delivers a respectable on-road experience, although it's important to remember that it's still an all-terrain tire, so some compromises are expected compared to a dedicated highway tire.

Ride Comfort: The ATP II offers a relatively comfortable ride for an all-terrain tire. It absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well, although you may notice a slightly firmer ride compared to a highway-oriented tire.

Handling: The tire provides decent handling on paved roads, offering predictable steering response and stability. However, it may not be as sharp or responsive as a performance-oriented tire, especially during aggressive maneuvers.

Noise: While Cooper has incorporated noise-reduction technologies, the ATP II does produce some road noise, particularly at higher speeds. This is a common characteristic of all-terrain tires due to their aggressive tread patterns.

Wet Traction: The Discoverer ATP II performs adequately in wet conditions, providing sufficient grip for braking and handling. However, it's essential to be cautious in heavy rain or standing water, as hydroplaning can still be a risk.

Off-Road Performance

Where the Cooper Discoverer ATP II truly shines is in its off-road capabilities. The aggressive tread pattern and durable construction make it well-suited for tackling a variety of unpaved surfaces.

Gravel and Dirt: The ATP II excels on gravel and dirt roads, providing excellent traction and control. The tread pattern effectively grips the loose surface, allowing you to maintain momentum and navigate with confidence.

Mud and Sand: The tire offers decent performance in mud and sand, although it may not be as capable as a dedicated mud-terrain tire. The wide grooves help to evacuate mud and sand, but you may need to be more cautious in deeper or stickier conditions.

Snow and Ice: The Discoverer ATP II is generally considered a decent tire in snow, especially light to moderate snow conditions. The tread pattern provides some biting edges for improved grip. However, it's not a dedicated winter tire, so it won't perform as well on ice or in severe winter weather. Using 4-wheel drive and adjusting tire pressure for the conditions is recommended.

Durability: The ATP II is built to withstand the rigors of off-road driving. The robust carcass construction and stone ejector ribs help to protect the tire from punctures and damage.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of the Cooper Discoverer ATP II:

Pros:

Versatile all-terrain performance
Good traction on gravel, dirt, and other unpaved surfaces
Durable construction
Relatively quiet ride for an all-terrain tire
Decent wet traction
Stone ejector ribs
Long-lasting wear

Cons:

Some road noise at higher speeds
Not as sharp handling as a dedicated performance tire
May not be ideal for extreme off-road conditions
Wet traction is adequate but not exceptional

Alternatives to the Cooper Discoverer ATP II

If you're not convinced that the Cooper Discoverer ATP II is the right tire for you, here are a few alternatives to consider:

Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar: This tire is known for its excellent durability and off-road capabilities, making it a good choice for drivers who frequently venture onto rough terrain.
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2: A popular and highly regarded all-terrain tire known for its exceptional off-road performance and durability. It tends to be more aggressive (and noisier) than the ATP II.
Michelin LTX A/T2: This tire offers a good balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability, making it a suitable choice for drivers who prioritize a smooth and quiet ride.
Falken Wildpeak A/T3W: This tire is praised for its aggressive tread pattern and excellent performance in a variety of conditions, including snow and ice.

Pricing and Availability

The price of the Cooper Discoverer ATP II varies depending on the tire size and retailer. Generally, it falls in the mid-range price category for all-terrain tires. It is widely available at tire retailers and online stores.

Who is the Cooper Discoverer ATP II for?

The Cooper Discoverer ATP II is a great choice for drivers who need a versatile tire that can handle both on-road and off-road driving. It's particularly well-suited for:

Truck, SUV, and crossover owners
Drivers who spend a significant amount of time on paved roads but also occasionally venture onto gravel, dirt, or other unpaved surfaces
Individuals looking for a durable and long-lasting all-terrain tire
Those who want a relatively quiet and comfortable ride for an all-terrain tire

Conclusion

The Cooper Discoverer ATP II is a well-rounded all-terrain tire that offers a good balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. It's a durable and versatile option that's suitable for a wide range of vehicles and driving conditions. While it may not be the best choice for extreme off-roading or performance driving, it's a solid option for drivers who need a reliable and capable all-terrain tire for everyday use and occasional adventures. Consider your specific driving needs and priorities when making your final decision. Weigh the pros and cons of the ATP II and compare it to other alternatives to determine which tire best suits your requirements. Ultimately, a little research goes a long way in getting the right tires for your vehicle.