Here at Winter Tyre Reviews, with our partner Tyremen we are going to look at the top three most popular winter tyres for SUV and 4X4 vehicles.

So lets start with the Vredestein Wintrac 4 Xtreme.

This tyre is gaining in popularity in the UK which mirrors sales in Europe. Designed with performance in mind, this is a robust SUV tyre with saloon car characteristics.

A prominent ‘W’ directional design tread pattern gives a robust appearance which is demanded by owners, but just because it looks good, is it?

Well, the tread design makes the clearance of water, slush and snow a quick and effective process. Stopping distances are good when compared to summer tyres and handling improved for greater stability in cold weather.

Tyre wear is good and we have had reports comparing mileage with summer tyres.

Basic off road use is good, enabling great traction in mud and gravel tracks and driveways.

Fuel economy is rated between C and E dependant on size, Wet Grip is rated E and noise levels at 71db see here for a full explanation.

All in all, a great choice for winter safety giving confidence for all day to day use!

We rate 8/10

Next on our list is the Goodyear Wrangler Ultragrip

 

As you can see from the image, the Goodyear is a traditional SUV/4X4 tyre, big, chunky with a defined tread pattern, so can you use it for normal every day use? Well, yes you can, and here’s why.

As it’s name suggests, the Ultragrip does just that! It gives exceptional traction and pull in most winter conditions. Unlike the Vredestein, this is a tyre designed with ‘off road’ in mind, but that then balances off against ‘on road’ qualities.

Don’t get us wrong, it is more than adequate plodding around town, but with its more aggressive tread pattern, the ratings are compromised, here’s how:

Fuel economy is E to F ,Wet grip is C to E, Noise levels between 68db to 75db.

Removal of snow, slush and water from the tread is very good. Off road performance is one of the best in snow, but every day use isn’t as good as other tyres available, therefore:

We rate 7/10

Our last tyre we are going to review is the Dunlop Grandtrek SJ6

 

Wow, just look at that tread pattern! Six wide circumferential grooves provide one of the best water drainage  tyres around and helps to reduce the risk of aquaplaning in some of the worst conditions.

It is designed with multiple blades and its compound is made up with Silica-Plus and microscopic studs which gives superb traction and wet performance.

The tread pattern is directional, with wide grooves that cuts through water, slush and snow. Dry weather grip is good on the majority of surfaces with a firm grip on ice.

Fuel economy is rated at E, Wet Grip is rated at F and noise levels at 74db to 76db dependant on tyre size.

So based on its slant towards off road capabilities and high noise levels:

We rate 7/10

There are other SUV tyres out there, but as they come in large sizes and don’t make up the biggest percentage of cars on the road, they can be hard to come by.

That is why we looked at these three. If you have another preference or want further information and availability, call the guys at Tyremen on 08456 807808

Thanks for reading and leave your thoughts or comments below.

The Winter Tyre Reviews Team