Off-road tires don't match the performance of smooth roads.
In a recent test conducted by the renowned German automotive magazine, Auto, Motor und Sport, five common winter-ready all-terrain tires were put to the test. The test, featured in Issue 19/2025, included a pure summer all-terrain tire and a road-optimized SUV tire (Highway/Terrain), each in size 255/55 R 18.
The test results paint a clear picture: all-terrain tires may not be the best choice for regular roads. One all-terrain tire failed to match the performance of a standard all-weather tire when braking at 80 km/h in wet conditions towards a traffic jam. Dangerously long braking distances are a disadvantage of AT tires, and higher fuel consumption is another.
In contrast, standard tires with summer or all-weather profiles behave much safer on the road. Less fuel consumption is an advantage of standard tires, and they also produce less noise during rolling. However, the test did not provide specific details about the fuel efficiency of the all-terrain tires.
The magazine recommended the "Falken Wildpeak AT 3" All-Terrain tire for regular summer road use, but it fell short on everyday asphalt. On the other hand, the "General Grabber AT3" was recommended for year-round use.
The test did not discuss the longevity or durability of the all-terrain tires compared to other tire types. Nor did it mention the specific conditions under which the on-asphalt performance was evaluated. It also failed to specify the exact brands or models of the all-terrain tires used.
Despite their strong performance on light off-road terrain like loose gravel or rutted, muddy paths, all-terrain tires did not impress on everyday asphalt. The test conclusion was clear: many factors speak against using AT tires on a daily-use SUV.
Instead, testers suggest that standard tires are safer for daily use, saving money and the environment. With their improved safety, fuel efficiency, and quieter performance, standard tires seem to be the clear choice for most drivers.
