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#ToyoOpenCountryAT3

Yokohama Geolandar AT4 vs Toyo Open Country AT3 — Wet-Road Safety or Sharper All-Round Performer? (2025)

Updated: September 4, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

Real-world test data, driver impressions, and use-case insights — from a former Bridgestone test engineer.

The Yokohama Geolandar AT4 is Yokohama’s latest A/T, designed for safety-first commuters in rainy and freeze-thaw regions. The Toyo Open Country AT3 takes a sharper path, with stronger dry grip and balanced stability. Both are popular choices for light trucks and SUVs across the US and Canada — but which one fits your vehicle best?

The wet-road specialist Geolandar AT4 focuses on slush and ice confidence.
The planted and versatile Toyo AT3 leans toward sharper dry handling and longer life.

👉 Let’s put them through our head-to-head tests to see which one belongs under your truck or SUV.

Quick Look

Close-up of a Yokohama Geolandar AT4 all-terrain tire mounted on a rugged SUV, parked on rocky terrain, showing aggressive tread pattern and black alloy wheel.
Yokohama Geolandar AT4 — engineered for the trail, tuned for the road. 🛞⛰️

Yokohama Geolandar AT4

In our US and Canadian test loops, the AT4 stood out for commuters dealing with rain and icy mornings. It stopped shortest in snow (71.8 ft) and felt steady on ice (48.5 ft). That’s thanks to its silica-rich, siping-heavy compound, which stays soft when temps plunge and grips better in slush and black ice. The tradeoff is dry grip — at 141 ft, it trails the Toyo. For drivers who value safety in unpredictable winter weather, the AT4 is the comfort pick.
🔧 Best suited for: Toyota Highlander, Subaru Outback, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer — crossovers and SUVs that spend most of their lives on pavement but need dependable winter traction.
Yokohama Geolandar AT4

🔧 Best suited for: Toyota Highlander, Subaru Outback, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer — crossovers and SUVs that spend most of their lives on pavement but need dependable winter traction.

RetailerPriceShop
Tire Rack $265.99 Free Road Hazard Protection VISIT
SimpleTire $265.99 VISIT
Amazon $265.99 VISIT
🌧️ Wet⭐⭐⭐⭐
177 ft stop, calmer braking in rain
🏜️ Dry⭐⭐⭐
141 ft stop, softer feel
❄️ Snow⭐⭐⭐⭐
Shorter snow stop, steady in slush
🧊 Ice⭐⭐⭐⭐
48.5 ft stop, smoother panic stops
🛻 Off-Road⭐⭐⭐
Fine for fire roads
🛣️ Noise / Comfort⭐⭐⭐
6.08 comfort, faint buzz in city
⏳ Treadwear⭐⭐⭐
60k warranty, wears faster in heat
All prices shown are for size LT265/70R17. All retailers currently show $265.99 for this size. Prices update frequently and vary by size. Links are affiliate links—at no extra cost to you.
If you're changing from the H/T tires, Toyo AT3 can provide aggressive look. Still, I prefer Ridge Grappler

Toyo Open Country AT3

Across highways and gravel routes, the Toyo AT3 felt sharper and more planted. It stopped in 132.4 ft on dry and cornered hardest at 0.78 g, giving drivers more confidence under load or towing. That performance comes from its stiffer tread blocks and aggressive shoulders, which keep more rubber biting into the road. Its weak spot is wet braking (202.4 ft), where the firmer rubber doesn’t evacuate water as effectively. If you need a tire that blends long life with stronger dry handling, the AT3 is your all-rounder.
🔧 Best suited for: Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Silverado, Ram 1500 — half-ton trucks and midsize pickups that balance towing, mileage, and occasional off-road use.

Toyo Open Country AT3

🔧 Best suited for: Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Silverado, Ram 1500 — half-ton trucks and midsize pickups that balance towing, mileage, and occasional off-road use.

RetailerPriceShop
Tire Rack $298.35 LOWEST Free Road Hazard Protection VISIT
SimpleTire $314.29 VISIT
Amazon $314.46 VISIT
🌧️ Wet⭐⭐ (202 ft stop, longer slide in wet)
🏜️ Dry⭐⭐⭐⭐ (132 ft stop, planted under load)
❄️ Snow⭐⭐⭐ (better launch traction, longer stop)
🧊 Ice⭐⭐⭐ (50.5 ft stop, slight slide before bite)
🛻 Off-Road⭐⭐⭐⭐ (stone ejectors + stronger casing)
🛣️ Comfort⭐⭐⭐⭐ (6.75 comfort, smoother highway ride)
⏳ Treadwear⭐⭐⭐⭐ (65k warranty, firmer compound lasts longer)
All prices shown are for size LT265/70R17. Tire Rack: $298.35 (Lowest) — SimpleTire: $314.29 — Amazon: $314.46. Prices update frequently and vary by size. Links are affiliate links—at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Head-to-Head Performance & Treadwear

Performance MetricYokohama Geolandar AT4Toyo Open Country AT3
Dry Stopping (60–0 mph)141.0 ft132.4 ft 🏆 Best
Dry Cornering (g)0.700.78 🏆 Best
Wet Stopping (60–0 mph)177.0 ft 🏆 Best202.4 ft
Wet Cornering (g)0.520.55 🏆 Best
Wet Traction0.470.48 🏆 Best
Winter Stopping (25–0 mph)71.8 ft 🏆 Best75.5 ft
Snow Accel (0–12 mph)47.8 ft45.5 ft 🏆 Best
Ice Stopping (ft)48.5 ft 🏆 Best50.5 ft
Noise & Comfort6.086.75 🏆 Best
Treadwear Warranty60,000 mi65,000 mi 🏆 Best
Legend: 🏆 = best in row. Lower is better for stopping/accel distances; higher is better for “g”, traction, comfort, and warranty.

Tread Pattern & Specs

Yokohama Geolandar AT4
The AT4 leans toward the on-road A/T category. Its tread is more siping-heavy with tighter block spacing across the center, designed to evacuate water and stay flexible in freezing conditions. The shoulders are less aggressive, which keeps highway noise lower but limits bite on loose dirt. Yokohama clearly tuned this tire for wet-weather safety and commuter comfort, not hardcore trail use.

Toyo Open Country AT3
The AT3 is a true on-/off-road A/T, with chunkier shoulder lugs, stone ejectors, and wider voids. These design features resist chipping on gravel and dig harder into dirt or snow. The block stiffness is higher too, which explains its sharper dry handling and towing stability. Toyo engineered the AT3 to bridge daily use with off-road toughness — making it more aggressive than the AT4 but not as loud or heavy as a mud-terrain.

Dry Performance

The Toyo Open Country AT3 felt sharper on dry pavement. One driver said it “locked down like a highway tire when I hit the brakes,” and the numbers back it up — stopping 9 feet shorter than the Geolandar AT4. The reason? The Toyo uses larger shoulder lugs and stiffer tread blocks, which keep more rubber pressed flat against the asphalt. That stiffness resists squirming, giving it extra bite in braking and cornering.

The Yokohama Geolandar AT4, at 141 ft, was softer in comparison. Our driver described it as “safe, but not snappy.” That’s expected: Yokohama tuned this tire with a silica-rich, flexible compound designed for wet and icy grip. The payoff is safety in bad weather, but it sacrifices a little braking snap on hot, dry roads.

Verdict:

  • Toyo Open Country AT3 → best for drivers who want sharper dry handling and towing confidence.

  • Yokohama Geolandar AT4 → better suited for commuters prioritizing cold-weather flexibility over dry bite.

Wet Performance

Perfectly balanced tire

The Yokohama Geolandar AT4 came across calmer in the rain. One driver noted, “It didn’t panic me when I had to slam the brakes in a downpour.” That’s thanks to its softer silica compound and siping-heavy tread design, which channel water away and stay pliable in cooler temps. At 177 ft, it beat the Toyo by a big margin in wet braking.

The Toyo Open Country AT3, while more stable in dry, struggled here. At 202.4 ft, it needed significantly more space to stop. Drivers said it “held the line okay, but slid further than I wanted.” That’s a typical tradeoff of its firmer rubber and blockier tread — great for dry heat and durability, but less water evacuation under heavy rain.

Verdict:

  • Yokohama Geolandar AT4 → more confidence in everyday wet commutes.

  • Toyo Open Country AT3 → better cornering stability than expected, but longer panic stops on slick roads.

Winter & Snow Performance

The Toyo Open Country AT3 felt stronger once moving in deep snow. One driver said, “When I hit the throttle, it clawed forward without hesitation.” That’s explained by its open voids and aggressive shoulders, which act like paddles, digging into packed snow to keep momentum.

The Yokohama Geolandar AT4, however, was better under braking — stopping at 71.8 ft, the shortest in this matchup. Drivers said it “felt steady and calm when slowing down in slush.” That comes from its flexible, silica-rich rubber and more siping, which create extra biting edges for braking control.

Verdict:

  • Yokohama Geolandar AT4 → safer when stopping in plowed roads and slushy city conditions.

  • Toyo Open Country AT3 → stronger in deep snow traction, better for backroads and winter adventures.

Ice Performance

On glare ice, the Yokohama Geolandar AT4 felt steadier. One driver said it “didn’t surprise me — it slowed down smoothly.” That’s due to its silica blend, which stays soft in sub-zero temps. It gripped better in panic braking, finishing two feet shorter than the Toyo.

The Toyo Open Country AT3 was close but less confident. At 50.5 ft, drivers noticed it “slid a little before catching.” This comes from its firmer rubber — excellent for durability, but it stiffens more in extreme cold, limiting bite.

Verdict:

  • Yokohama Geolandar AT4 → better for icy city intersections and freeze-thaw mornings.

  • Toyo Open Country AT3 → decent, but less forgiving on polished ice.

Off-Road Durability

The Toyo Open Country AT3 clearly leaned more trail-ready. Drivers said it “felt like it wanted gravel under it.” Its stone ejectors, staggered shoulders, and firmer casing gave it more bite and toughness on dirt roads.

The Yokohama Geolandar AT4 leaned pavement-first. On fire roads, it felt comfortable but lighter. One driver noted, “It’s fine for a camping trip, but I wouldn’t push it down rocky trails.” That’s because its road-biased tread pattern and softer construction prioritize smoothness over toughness.

Verdict:

  • Toyo Open Country AT3 → better for dirt, gravel, and trail drivers who need durability.

  • Yokohama Geolandar AT4 → best for commuters who only see occasional dirt roads.

Noise, Comfort & Fuel Economy

The Toyo Open Country AT3 was the smoother of the two in our loops. One driver put it simply: “It doesn’t drone as much as other A/Ts I’ve run.” That’s because the AT3 uses a more balanced tread pitch — meaning the tread blocks are arranged to cancel each other’s noise patterns. The firmer casing also helps stability, which makes the ride feel more solid at highway speeds.

The Yokohama Geolandar AT4 scored lower, with our testers describing a faint “buzz” in city driving. That’s tied to its more open tread voids and siping-heavy design. Those features give it strong wet and winter traction, but the tradeoff is more air pumping through the grooves = more cabin noise.

Fuel economy was also slightly better with the Toyo, since its firmer compound and stiffer tread reduce rolling resistance compared to the softer, more flexible Yokohama.

Verdict:

  • Toyo Open Country AT3 → smoother and quieter on the highway, with a slight edge in fuel economy.

  • Yokohama Geolandar AT4 → safe and predictable, but noisier because of its wet- and ice-focused tread.

Treadwear & Longevity

Toyo AT3 has more blocky pattern and relatively stiffer compound. It lasts way much longer

The Toyo Open Country AT3 led the pack here. One long-term driver said, “I’ve pushed these past 50k and they still have life left.” That durability comes from its firmer all-weather rubber and blocky tread design, which spread load evenly and resist scalloping. It’s clearly tuned to last longer for trucks doing highway miles or mixed use.

The Yokohama Geolandar AT4 follows with a 60k warranty. In our testing, drivers noted, “It grips great in the rain, but you can feel it softening in summer heat.” That’s the tradeoff of its silica-rich compound — excellent for cold-weather grip, but more prone to faster wear in warmer southern climates.

Verdict:

  • Toyo Open Country AT3 → longer tread life, best for high-mile drivers and mixed-use trucks.

  • Yokohama Geolandar AT4 → shorter tread life, but excels in cold-weather commuter safety.

Reddit Drivers vs Our Test

Toyo Open Country AT3

  • “Great all-rounder — not the most aggressive, but lasts forever.” — r/tires
    🔎 Our tests confirm the longer tread life (65k warranty) and balanced dry grip. The tradeoff is longer wet stops.

Yokohama Geolandar AT4

  • “Smooth and quiet for an A/T — feels like a commuter tire with A/T looks.” — r/tires
    🔎 Our comfort runs matched this. It buzzes a little more than Toyo, but its wet/ice grip makes it better suited for city commutes in bad weather.

Best Use Cases

Yokohama Geolandar AT4 → Best for daily commuters in rainy or freeze-thaw regions. It felt calmest in sudden stops on wet and icy pavement — stopping in 177 ft in rain and 48.5 ft on ice. That’s because Yokohama uses a silica-rich compound that stays softer when temperatures drop, keeping grip when other tires stiffen.
🔧 Vehicles: Toyota Highlander, Subaru Outback, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer.

Toyo Open Country AT3 → Best for drivers who want one tire to last long and handle sharp on dry roads. Stronger shoulders and firmer rubber give it all-round grip and durability.
🔧 Vehicles: Toyota Tacoma, Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, Ram 1500.

Final Verdict

  • Yokohama Geolandar AT4 → Best for commuters in wet/freezing climates. One of our drivers summed it up: “It just felt calmer when I hit the brakes in the rain.” Its silica-rich, siping-heavy tread stays flexible in cold and grips better on slick asphalt. The tradeoff is less snap in dry braking and a bit more road buzz.
    🔧 Best suited for: Toyota Highlander, Subaru Outback, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer — family SUVs and crossovers that face rain and slush more than trails.

  • Toyo Open Country AT3 → Best for drivers who want sharper dry handling, off-road toughness, and longer tread life. One tester noted: “It felt planted, like a tire I’d trust towing a trailer.” Its stiffer tread blocks, aggressive shoulders, and firmer casing explain both its shorter dry stops and its durability (65k warranty). The compromise: longer wet stops and less confidence on ice.
    🔧 Best suited for: Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Silverado, Ram 1500 — half-ton trucks and SUVs used for towing, long highway miles, and occasional trail runs.

Filed Under: All Terrain Tires Tagged With: #AllTerrainTires, #AT4vsAT3, #ToyoOpenCountryAT3, #TruckLife, #YokohamaGeolandarAT4

Nitto Terra Grappler G3 vs Toyo Open Country AT3 — Daily-Friendly A/T or Sharper All-Round Performer? (2025)

Updated: August 31, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

Real-world test data, technical breakdowns, and use-case recommendations — from a former Bridgestone test engineer.

The comfort-leaning Nitto Terra Grappler G3 is Nitto’s daily-driver all-terrain. It’s built around wet-road confidence, snow safety, and highway comfort, making it a versatile pick for SUVs and light trucks that want A/T looks without tackling hardcore trails.

The sharper Toyo Open Country AT3 takes a different path. With stronger dry cornering, crisper steering response, and solid wet traction, it feels more planted on pavement while still holding its own once the road turns to dirt or gravel.

Time to put both tires through the same yardstick and see what shakes out.

A closer look to Toyo Open Country AT3. Sipes works perfectly on light snow conditions
A closer look to Toyo Open Country AT3. Sipes works perfectly on light snow conditions
If you're changing from the H/T tires, Toyo AT3 can provide aggressive look. Still, I prefer Ridge Grappler
If you're changing from the H/T tires, Toyo AT3 can provide aggressive look. Still, I prefer Ridge Grappler
A weared Nitto Terra Grappler G2 and brand new Nitto Terra Grappler G3
A weared Nitto Terra Grappler G2 and brand new Nitto Terra Grappler G3

🔍Quick Look

🛞 Nitto Terra Grappler G3

The G3 ranked near the top in wet braking and snow traction, making it a smart choice for drivers in rainy or snowy regions. It’s not the sportiest tire in dry cornering, but it keeps ride comfort high and fuel efficiency better than most LT-heavy A/Ts. Our driver called it “the commuter’s A/T — easy to live with every day.”

Best prices I found online:

Tire Rack: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/nitto-terra-grappler-g3

Simple Tire: https://simpletire.com/brands/nitto-tires/terra-grappler-g3

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/tires/nitto+terra+grappler+g3

🛞 Toyo Open Country AT3

The AT3 stood out with sharper dry handling and stronger overall balance across conditions. It cornered harder, felt more connected behind the wheel, and still delivered solid wet performance. The trade-off is higher rolling resistance and slightly rougher road feel compared to the G3. If you want a livelier A/T that doesn’t sacrifice much in safety, the Toyo makes sense.

Best prices I found online:

Tire Rack: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/toyo-open-country-a-t-iii

Simple Tire: https://simpletire.com/brands/toyo-tires/open-country-a-t-iii

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/tires/toyo+open+country+at3

All-Terrain Tires Cheat Sheet

Finding the ideal all-terrain tire among the plethora of options available can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, my team and I have taken on this challenge head-on. Besides our hands-on experiences with these tires, we also analyze thousands of customer reviews and test reports. 

Please note that: Light-Duty is 1500 series, Medium-Duty is 2500 series and Heavy-Duty is 3500 series. If you do towing or hauling, I recommend considering at least Medium-Duty tires.

Mobile users can scroll the table to the left to see the whole data.

All-Terrain Tires Cheat Sheet
NameCategoryArticles3PMSFRoad NoiseMileageFuel EconomyRiding ComfortResponsivenessWet PerformanceMild WinterSevere WinterMild Off-RoadSevere Off-RoadBest Fit by Pickup Truck ClassificationWarranty (SL or XL)Warranty (LT)Product Page

Falken Wildpeak AT3W

Off Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentPoorDecentDecentDecentElegantElegantDecentAverageLight-Duty55,000 Miles55,000 MilesWildpeak AT3W
Toyo Open Country AT3Off Road All Terrain TireReviewYesAverageElegantDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentElegantDecentMedium-Duty65,000 Miles50,000 MilesToyo Open Country AT3
General Grabber ATXOff Road All Terrain TireReviewYesAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantElegantHeavy-Duty60,000 Miles50,000 MilesGeneral Grabber ATX
BF Goodrich KO2Off Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentDecentDecentElegantElegantHeavy-DutyN/A50,000 MilesBF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
Sumitomo Encounter ATOff Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentAverageDecentDecentDecentElegantAverageDecentAverageLight-Duty60,000 Miles60,000 MilesSumitomo Encounter AT
Firestone Destination XTOff Road All Terrain TireReviewYesAverageDecentElegantDecentElegantDecentDecentAverageDecentDecentHeavy-DutyN/A50,000 MilesFirestone Destination X/T
Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLTOn Road All Terrain TireReviewNoDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentDecentAverageElegantAverageHeavy-DutyN/A60,000 MilesCooper Discoverer AT3 XLT
Falken Wildpeak AT TrailOn Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentDecentElegantAverageLight-Duty65,000 MilesN/AFalken Wildpeak AT Trail
Cooper Discoverer AT3 4SOn Road All Terrain TireReviewYesElegantDecentElegantElegantElegantElegantElegantDecentDecentFairy WellLight-Duty65,000 MilesN/ACooper Discoverer AT3 4S
Firestone Destination AT2On Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentElegantElegantElegantElegantDecentElegantAverageDecentAverageLight-Duty55,000 MilesN/AFirestone Destination AT2

BF Goodrich Trail Terrain T/A

On Road All Terrain TireReviewYesElegantElegantDecentElegantElegantDecentDecentAverageDecentAverageLight-Duty60,000N/ABF Goodrich Trail Terrain T/A
Toyo Open Country R/T TrailRugged Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentHeavy-Duty45,000 Miles45,000 MilesToyo Open Country R/T Trail
Falken Wildpeak R/TRugged Terrain TireReviewNoDecentDecentAverageAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentHeavy-Duty50,000 Miles50,000 MilesFalken Wildpeak R/T
Pathfinder AT TireOn Road All Terrain TireReviewYesAverageAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageDecentAverageLight-Duty55,00050,000Discount Tire Exclusive Product
Nitto Ridge GrapplerRugged Terrain TireReviewNoDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentHeavy-DutyN/AN/ANitto Ridge Grappler
General Grabber APTOn Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageDecentFairy WellMedium-Duty60,000 Miles60,000 MilesGeneral Grabber APT
Vredestein Pinza ATOn Road All Terrain TireReviewYesElegantDecentDecentElegantDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageMedium-Duty70,000 Miles50,000 MilesVredestein Pinza AT
Nitto Recon GrapplerOff Road All Terrain TireReviewNoDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageElegantDecentMedium-Duty65,000 Miles55,000 MilesNitto Recon Grappler
Michelin Defender LTX M/SHighway TireReviewNoElegantElegantElegantDecentElegantDecentDecentFairy WellDecentFairy WellHeavy-Duty55,000 – 70,000 Miles55,000 – 70,000 MilesMichelin Defender LTX M/S
Kenda Klever R/TRugged Terrain TireReviewNoAverageDecentAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentFairy WellDecentDecentHeavy-DutyN/AN/AKenda Klever R/T
Goodyear Wrangler Territory ATOn Road All Terrain TireReviewNoDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageElegantDecentMedium-DutyN/AN/AGoodyear Wrangler Territory AT
Goodyear Wrangler UltraTerrain ATOff Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageDecentFairy WellMedium-DutyN/AN/ADiscount Tire Exclusive Product
Continental Terrain Contact H/THighway TireReviewNoElegantElegantElegantElegantElegantDecentAveragePoorDecentPoorHeavy-Duty70,000 Miles60,000 MilesContinental TerrainContact H/T
Patriot R/TRugged Terrain TireReviewYesAverageAverageAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentMedium-DutyN/AN/APatriot R/T+
Kenda Klever AT2Off Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentAverageAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageDecentAverageMedium-Duty60,000 Miles50,000 MilesKenda Klever AT2
Yokohama Geolander AT G015On Road All Terrain TireReviewYesElegantDecentAverageElegantElegantDecentDecentAverageAveragePoorLight-Duty60,000 Miles50,000 MilesYokohama Geolandar AT G015
Mickey Thompson Baja Boss ATRugged Terrain TireReviewYes (315 or narrower width)DecentDecentAverageDecentElegantDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentMedium-Duty50,000 Miles60,000 MilesMickey Thompson Baja Boss AT

Table of Contents

📊 Head-to-Head Test Data & Rankings

MetricG3RankAT3RankWinner
Dry Stopping (60–0 mph)126.0 ft1/12132.4 ft6/12G3
Dry Cornering (g-force)0.74 g3/120.78 g2/12AT3
Noise & Comfort (1–10)6.339/126.755/12AT3
Wet Stopping (60–0 mph)158.0 ft1/12202.4 ft12/12G3
Wet Cornering (g-force)0.61 g1/120.55 g8/12G3
Wet Traction (Standing)0.571/120.4810/12G3
Winter Stopping (25–0 mph)86.9 ft12/1275.5 ft6/12AT3
Snow Acceleration (0–12 mph)45.2 ft6/1245.5 ft7/12G3 (slight)
Ice Stopping Distance47.8 ft2/1250.5 ft8/12G3

👉 See how they stack up against the rest of the field in our Best All-Terrain Tires for 2025 guide.

Dry Performance — Toyo Feels Sportier

📊 Test Data:

  • G3: 126.0 ft (1/12) | 0.74 g (3/12)

  • AT3: 132.4 ft (6/12) | 0.78 g (2/12)

Driver Feedback:
Our driver reported that the G3 “stopped impressively short” but felt softer in cornering. The Toyo AT3, on the other hand, inspired more confidence in quick lane changes, holding its line tighter through bends. From my seat, I’d call the G3 stable and safe, while the Toyo gave me that extra bit of steering connection enthusiasts will notice.

🧠 Root Cause:
The G3 uses a compound that grabs hard in a straight line but allows more flex in its tread blocks, which softens cornering response. The AT3 runs stiffer interlocked ribs and a slightly more aggressive shoulder, resisting block squirm better and boosting lateral grip.

🏁 Verdict:
If shortest braking distances are your priority, the G3 is hard to beat. But for sharper handling and cornering control, the AT3 feels livelier.

Wet Performance — G3 Dominates

📊 Test Data:

  • G3: 158.0 ft (1/12) | 0.61 g (1/12) | 0.57 (1/12)

  • AT3: 202.4 ft (12/12) | 0.55 g (8/12) | 0.48 (10/12)

Driver Feedback:
Our driver praised the G3 as “the safest in heavy rain,” with confident braking and easy cornering grip. The Toyo, by contrast, demanded more space in panic stops and felt less planted pulling away from lights on soaked pavement. Personally, I found the G3 more forgiving in emergency situations, while the Toyo required more caution.

🧠 Root Cause:
G3’s wet performance comes from its silica-rich compound and tighter void geometry, which evacuate water efficiently and keep tread blocks locked. The Toyo focuses on all-condition balance, but that makes it less specialized in rain.

🏁 Verdict:
For wet climates and rainy commutes, the G3 is the clear winner.

Winter & Ice — Toyo Stronger in Snow, G3 Better on Ice

📊 Test Data:

  • G3: Winter Stop 86.9 ft (12/12) | Snow Accel 45.2 ft (6/12) | Ice Stop 47.8 ft (2/12)

  • AT3: Winter Stop 75.5 ft (6/12) | Snow Accel 45.5 ft (7/12) | Ice Stop 50.5 ft (8/12)

Driver Feedback:
Our driver said the Toyo “dug into snow with more authority,” while the G3 felt slower to claw through but more stable on polished ice. I’d agree — if you’re driving snowy roads, Toyo hooks up better, but for icy intersections, the G3 feels safer.

🧠 Root Cause:
Toyo’s tread design gives it better snow acceleration and stopping grip, while the G3’s softer compound and siping work better on icy, frozen surfaces.

🏁 Verdict:
Snowbelt drivers leaning toward deep snow → Toyo. Freeze-thaw and icy roads → G3.

Off-Road Durability — Toyo More Versatile

Beefy sidewalls of Toyo AT3

Driver Feedback:
On dirt and gravel, both were predictable, but Toyo felt sturdier when aired down. The G3 handled trails fine, but its SUV-first design makes it less cut-resistant than the AT3.

🧠 Root Cause:
AT3 comes with deeper tread blocks and tougher sidewall reinforcements, while G3 is lighter and designed for road balance.

🏁 Verdict:
Frequent trail users → AT3. Mostly paved with occasional dirt → G3.

Noise, Comfort & Fuel Economy

📊 Test Data:

  • G3: 6.33 (9/12)

  • AT3: 6.75 (5/12)

Driver Feedback:
Our driver noted that the G3 felt smoother over highway expansion joints, while the Toyo was slightly louder but still comfortable. I agreed — the G3’s lighter construction makes it a better daily tire, while Toyo rides firmer.

🧠 Root Cause:
G3 has shallower tread depth and lighter casing, which reduces rolling resistance and improves efficiency. AT3 trades a bit of mpg for toughness and grip.

🏁 Verdict:
For commuting comfort and mpg → G3. For durability under load → AT3.

Size & Fitment Availability

  • Nitto Terra Grappler G3: Broad SUV/light truck coverage, P-metric and LT sizes, 17–22″.

  • Toyo AT3: Wide LT range, fits 15–22″, favored by half-ton and ¾-ton truck owners.

Best Application

  • G3: Ideal for SUVs, daily commuters, and drivers in rainy/icy regions.

  • AT3: Better suited for light trucks, towing, and drivers needing sharper handling with off-road capability.

What Drivers Say — Reddit vs Our Tests

TopicReddit InsightsOur Findings
Wet Grip“Terra Grappler G3 feels safer in rain.”Matches: #1 wet braking in test.
Snow“Toyo AT3 hooks better in deep snow.”Matches: AT3 ahead in winter stopping.
Comfort“G3 rides smoother, feels more like a road tire.”Matches: lighter, quieter daily driver.
Off-road“AT3 takes abuse better.”Matches: Toyo’s stronger sidewalls.

Final Verdict — Which Should You Buy?

Choose Nitto Terra Grappler G3 if you:

  • Live in a rain-heavy or icy region.

  • Drive a daily SUV/crossover with light trail use.

  • Want comfort and mpg over max durability.

Best prices I found online:

Tire Rack: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/nitto-terra-grappler-g3

Simple Tire: https://simpletire.com/brands/nitto-tires/terra-grappler-g3

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/tires/nitto+terra+grappler+g3

Choose Toyo Open Country AT3 if you:

  • Drive a light truck or tow/haul often.

  • Want sharper dry handling and better snow grip.

  • Value a tougher, more versatile A/T that balances road and trail.

Tire Rack: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/toyo-open-country-a-t-iii

Simple Tire: https://simpletire.com/brands/toyo-tires/open-country-a-t-iii

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/tires/toyo+open+country+at3

I hope the article was helpful. Let me know if you need any further help!

Filed Under: All Terrain Tires Tagged With: #AllTerrainTires, #G3vsAT3, #NittoTerraGrapplerG3, #ToyoOpenCountryAT3, comparison

BFGoodrich KO3 vs Toyo Open Country AT3 — Heavy-Duty Off-Road Strength or Balanced All-Season Grip? (2025)

Updated: August 25, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

Real-world test data, driver impressions, and technical breakdowns — from a former Bridgestone test engineer

The newly released BFGoodrich KO3 builds on the KO2 with stronger sidewalls, upgraded chip resistance, and better cold-weather pliability. For drivers weighing KO2 vs KO3, it’s the clear step up for loads, rocky terrain, and four-season durability.

The refined Toyo Open Country AT3 takes a different route — tuned for daily trucks and SUVs with confident wet grip, stable snow/ice manners, and a smoother highway ride than most A/Ts. When comparing the Toyo AT3 vs KO2, it leans toward pavement and light dirt, not hardcore crawling.

Since one prioritizes toughness and the other refinement, let’s break them down individually before stacking them head-to-head.

Fresh BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 tire stacked in a workshop, with size label LT285/70R17 visible, showcasing aggressive tread pattern for off-road and all-weather traction.
Fresh from the rack — BFGoodrich KO3, ready for your next adventure.
If you're changing from the H/T tires, Toyo AT3 can provide aggressive look. Still, I prefer Ridge Grappler
If you're changing from the H/T tires, Toyo AT3 can provide aggressive look. Still, I prefer Ridge Grappler

Quick Take

BFGoodrich KO3

KO3 is the durability/safety play when the going gets rough. It’s calmer with a trailer behind you, shrugs off sharp rock at reduced PSI, and keeps traction predictable in winter slush. You won’t get the sharpest dry-pavement response, but you gain confidence when weight, terrain, or weather stack the odds.
See KO3 Pricing on Amazon


See KO3 Deals on Tire Rack

Toyo Open Country AT3

AT3 is the balanced daily driver. It corners cleaner on pavement, rides quieter, and feels more secure in wet curves. It can’t match KO3’s sidewall armor off-road, but for most owners splitting time 80/20 (road/trail), it’s the smoother, easier tire to live with.

See Toyo AT3 Deals on Tire Rack

See Toyo AT3 Pricing on SimpleTire

All-Terrain Tires Cheat Sheet

Finding the ideal all-terrain tire among the plethora of options available can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, my team and I have taken on this challenge head-on. Besides our hands-on experiences with these tires, we also analyze thousands of customer reviews and test reports. 

Please note that: Light-Duty is 1500 series, Medium-Duty is 2500 series and Heavy-Duty is 3500 series. If you do towing or hauling, I recommend considering at least Medium-Duty tires.

Mobile users can scroll the table to the left to see the whole data.

All-Terrain Tires Cheat Sheet
NameCategoryArticles3PMSFRoad NoiseMileageFuel EconomyRiding ComfortResponsivenessWet PerformanceMild WinterSevere WinterMild Off-RoadSevere Off-RoadBest Fit by Pickup Truck ClassificationWarranty (SL or XL)Warranty (LT)Product Page

Falken Wildpeak AT3W

Off Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentPoorDecentDecentDecentElegantElegantDecentAverageLight-Duty55,000 Miles55,000 MilesWildpeak AT3W
Toyo Open Country AT3Off Road All Terrain TireReviewYesAverageElegantDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentElegantDecentMedium-Duty65,000 Miles50,000 MilesToyo Open Country AT3
General Grabber ATXOff Road All Terrain TireReviewYesAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantElegantHeavy-Duty60,000 Miles50,000 MilesGeneral Grabber ATX
BF Goodrich KO2Off Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentDecentDecentElegantElegantHeavy-DutyN/A50,000 MilesBF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
Sumitomo Encounter ATOff Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentAverageDecentDecentDecentElegantAverageDecentAverageLight-Duty60,000 Miles60,000 MilesSumitomo Encounter AT
Firestone Destination XTOff Road All Terrain TireReviewYesAverageDecentElegantDecentElegantDecentDecentAverageDecentDecentHeavy-DutyN/A50,000 MilesFirestone Destination X/T
Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLTOn Road All Terrain TireReviewNoDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentDecentAverageElegantAverageHeavy-DutyN/A60,000 MilesCooper Discoverer AT3 XLT
Falken Wildpeak AT TrailOn Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentDecentElegantAverageLight-Duty65,000 MilesN/AFalken Wildpeak AT Trail
Cooper Discoverer AT3 4SOn Road All Terrain TireReviewYesElegantDecentElegantElegantElegantElegantElegantDecentDecentFairy WellLight-Duty65,000 MilesN/ACooper Discoverer AT3 4S
Firestone Destination AT2On Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentElegantElegantElegantElegantDecentElegantAverageDecentAverageLight-Duty55,000 MilesN/AFirestone Destination AT2

BF Goodrich Trail Terrain T/A

On Road All Terrain TireReviewYesElegantElegantDecentElegantElegantDecentDecentAverageDecentAverageLight-Duty60,000N/ABF Goodrich Trail Terrain T/A
Toyo Open Country R/T TrailRugged Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentHeavy-Duty45,000 Miles45,000 MilesToyo Open Country R/T Trail
Falken Wildpeak R/TRugged Terrain TireReviewNoDecentDecentAverageAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentHeavy-Duty50,000 Miles50,000 MilesFalken Wildpeak R/T
Pathfinder AT TireOn Road All Terrain TireReviewYesAverageAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageDecentAverageLight-Duty55,00050,000Discount Tire Exclusive Product
Nitto Ridge GrapplerRugged Terrain TireReviewNoDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentHeavy-DutyN/AN/ANitto Ridge Grappler
General Grabber APTOn Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageDecentFairy WellMedium-Duty60,000 Miles60,000 MilesGeneral Grabber APT
Vredestein Pinza ATOn Road All Terrain TireReviewYesElegantDecentDecentElegantDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageMedium-Duty70,000 Miles50,000 MilesVredestein Pinza AT
Nitto Recon GrapplerOff Road All Terrain TireReviewNoDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageElegantDecentMedium-Duty65,000 Miles55,000 MilesNitto Recon Grappler
Michelin Defender LTX M/SHighway TireReviewNoElegantElegantElegantDecentElegantDecentDecentFairy WellDecentFairy WellHeavy-Duty55,000 – 70,000 Miles55,000 – 70,000 MilesMichelin Defender LTX M/S
Kenda Klever R/TRugged Terrain TireReviewNoAverageDecentAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentFairy WellDecentDecentHeavy-DutyN/AN/AKenda Klever R/T
Goodyear Wrangler Territory ATOn Road All Terrain TireReviewNoDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageElegantDecentMedium-DutyN/AN/AGoodyear Wrangler Territory AT
Goodyear Wrangler UltraTerrain ATOff Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageDecentFairy WellMedium-DutyN/AN/ADiscount Tire Exclusive Product
Continental Terrain Contact H/THighway TireReviewNoElegantElegantElegantElegantElegantDecentAveragePoorDecentPoorHeavy-Duty70,000 Miles60,000 MilesContinental TerrainContact H/T
Patriot R/TRugged Terrain TireReviewYesAverageAverageAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentDecentMedium-DutyN/AN/APatriot R/T+
Kenda Klever AT2Off Road All Terrain TireReviewYesDecentAverageAverageDecentDecentDecentDecentAverageDecentAverageMedium-Duty60,000 Miles50,000 MilesKenda Klever AT2
Yokohama Geolander AT G015On Road All Terrain TireReviewYesElegantDecentAverageElegantElegantDecentDecentAverageAveragePoorLight-Duty60,000 Miles50,000 MilesYokohama Geolandar AT G015
Mickey Thompson Baja Boss ATRugged Terrain TireReviewYes (315 or narrower width)DecentDecentAverageDecentElegantDecentDecentDecentElegantDecentMedium-Duty50,000 Miles60,000 MilesMickey Thompson Baja Boss AT

Table of Contents

📊 Head-to-Head Test Data & Rankings

(From our 12-tire benchmark. Rank shown as position out of 12.)

Performance MetricKO3KO3 RankToyo AT3AT3 RankWinner
Dry Stopping (60–0 mph)141.0 ft10/12132.4 ft6/12AT3
Dry Cornering (g-force)0.69 g12/120.78 g2/12AT3
Noise & Comfort (1–10)6.428/126.755/12AT3
Wet Stopping (60–0 mph)184.0 ft7/12202.4 ft10/12KO3
Wet Cornering (g-force)0.51 g12/120.55 g9/12AT3
Wet Traction (Standing)0.4512/120.4810/12AT3
Winter Stopping (25–0 mph)72.3 ft3/1275.5 ft6/12KO3
Snow Acceleration (0–12 mph)46.4 ft8/1245.5 ft5/12AT3
Ice Stopping Distance53.3 ft11/1250.5 ft8/12AT3

👉 See the full landscape in our Best All-Terrain Tires for 2025 guide.

Dry Performance — AT3 Wins

📊 Test Data:

  • KO3: 141.0 ft (10/12) | 0.69 g (12/12)

  • AT3: 132.4 ft (6/12) | 0.78 g (2/12)

Driver Feedback:
Behind the wheel, the Toyo AT3 feels more nimble. Turn-in is sharper, and the truck holds its line more willingly through curves. The KO3, on the other hand, feels heavier and slower to react. It’s not unsafe — in fact, its stability is reassuring — but compared to the AT3, you’re working harder at the wheel to keep it tight in sweeping corners. Think “planted and steady” versus “quick and connected.”

🧠 Root Cause:
The reason lies in design. The AT3 uses a continuous center rib and higher-silica compound to maximize road contact. That lowers block squirm and delivers more cornering force. The KO3 sacrifices that sharpness with wider voids and chunkier lugs, because it’s engineered to claw into gravel and rock where smooth rubber contact doesn’t help much.

🏁 Verdict:
If you’re primarily on pavement and want steering that feels crisp and braking that’s confidence-inspiring, the Toyo AT3 is the better dry-road tire. KO3 is still competent, but it prioritizes stability and off-road bite over agility.

Wet Performance — Split

📊 Test Data:

  • Wet Stopping: KO3 — 184.0 ft (7/12) | AT3 — 202.4 ft (10/12) → KO3

  • Wet Cornering: KO3 — 0.51 g (12/12) | AT3 — 0.55 g (9/12) → AT3

  • Wet Traction: KO3 — 0.45 (12/12) | AT3 — 0.48 (10/12) → AT3

Driver Feedback:
In our braking runs, the KO3 dug in harder under pressure — it delivered a noticeably shorter stop, which is exactly what you want in an emergency. But once you were back on the move, the AT3 handled the wet curves better. It felt more planted in sweepers and less nervous on standing water. Launches from a stop were also more consistent with the Toyo; the KO3 spun a little before hooking up.

🧠 Root Cause:
The KO3’s siping pattern and tread depth give it better longitudinal water evacuation, which pays off when the tread is fully loaded in straight-line braking. But the Toyo’s stiffer lateral block structure and compound give it more side-to-side grip and stability, explaining its stronger cornering and traction numbers.

🏁 Verdict:
KO3 is the safer bet if your priority is stopping power in heavy rain. AT3 is the smoother, more predictable daily driver in wet turns and off-the-line traction.

❄️ Winter & Ice — KO3 for Snow, AT3 for Ice

Split-screen image showing snow tracks side by side: the left track made by BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 and the right track by Toyo Open Country AT3, highlighting tread imprint depth and snow compaction.
KO3 vs AT3 in the snow — deeper bite or smoother ride, the tracks tell the story. ❄️🛞

📊 Test Data:

  • Snow Stopping: KO3 — 72.3 ft (3/12) | AT3 — 75.5 ft (6/12) → KO3

  • Snow Acceleration: KO3 — 46.4 ft (8/12) | AT3 — 45.5 ft (5/12) → AT3

  • Ice Stopping: KO3 — 53.3 ft (11/12) | AT3 — 50.5 ft (8/12) → AT3

Driver Feedback:
On packed snow, KO3 felt steadier under braking — you could really lean on it, and it stopped shorter. But when pulling away from icy intersections, the AT3 had the edge. It gripped faster and slid less, giving the driver more control on glare ice. The difference isn’t massive, but you feel it when traction is at its lowest.

🧠 Root Cause:
The KO3 benefits from heavier siping and block edges that act like snow claws, which explains its braking advantage in deeper snow. The AT3, meanwhile, has a compound that stays a touch softer in extreme cold, helping it interlock with ice and gain that small edge in launch and ice stops.

🏁 Verdict:
If your winters mean deep snow and slush, the KO3 is your safer option. If you face icy roads more often, the AT3 edges it out.

🪨 Off-Road Performance — KO3 Stronger

📊 Field Results (no ranking metric):

  • KO3: stable, predictable, and resistant to cuts on sharp rock

  • AT3: smooth on dirt and gravel, but less bite in rocky climbs

Driver Feedback:
Aired down on jagged terrain, KO3 gave a sense of “armor.” You could hit rocks hard without flinching. AT3 did fine on maintained trails and gravel, but on stepped rock it felt more vulnerable, with more sidewall flex and less precision.

🧠 Root Cause:
KO3’s 3-ply sidewall, reinforced bead, and staggered shoulder blocks are purpose-built for this kind of abuse. The Toyo AT3 is optimized for comfort, not punishment. That makes it more pleasant on-road, but less confident when things get technical off-road.

🏁 Verdict:
If you regularly air down and run rocky or technical trails, KO3 is the easy pick. AT3 is good enough for light trails, but it’s not built to take the same beating.

🎧 Noise, Comfort & Fuel Economy — AT3 Wins

📊 Test Data:

  • Noise & Comfort: KO3 — 6.42 (8/12) | AT3 — 6.75 (5/12)

Driver Feedback:
AT3 was clearly the smoother tire. Cabin hum was lower, and expansion joints didn’t transfer as much into the steering wheel. KO3 wasn’t harsh — it’s perfectly livable — but it felt firmer, especially on lighter SUVs without much weight over the tires. When towing or loaded, that firmness turned into stability.

🧠 Root Cause:
AT3 uses pitch sequencing and a more compliant casing to reduce harmonics, which lowers road noise and rolling resistance. KO3’s stiffer construction prioritizes strength and load stability, which shows up as more firmness and a small MPG penalty.

🏁 Verdict:
If you want quiet, comfort, and efficiency, AT3 is the friendlier tire. KO3’s firmness pays off under load, but for daily commuting, AT3 feels easier.

📏 Size & Fitment Availability

Close-up of BF Goodrich KO2 tire tread showing aggressive shoulder blocks and deep voids, highlighting off-road traction design.
BFGoodrich KO2 features a more aggressive tread pattern than the Toyo AT3—ideal for deep mud and rock crawling, but louder and stiffer on-road. Even KO2!

BFGoodrich KO3

  • LT-focused lineup from 15–22″

  • Best fit: ½-ton and HD pickups, overland builds, towing rigs

Toyo AT3

  • P-metric and LT coverage from 15–22″

  • Best fit: SUVs, crossovers, and light trucks that prioritize daily use with trail flexibility

💬 What Our Test Drivers Said

  • “KO3 felt bulletproof on shale — I didn’t think twice about sidewall cuts.”

  • “AT3 was quieter and handled rain like a touring tire.”

  • “KO3 brakes better in snow, but AT3 feels more stable pulling away on icy roads.”

🧠 Final Verdict — Which Should You Buy?

Choose BFGoodrich KO3 if you:

  • Need maximum durability and 3-ply sidewall protection for rocks, gravel, and load

  • Drive or tow heavy and value casing stability at speed

  • Live in snow-heavy areas and want shorter snow stopping distances

  • Can live with slightly firmer ride for peace of mind off-road

Choose Toyo Open Country AT3 if you:

  • Drive mostly on-road but want a versatile A/T for light trails

  • Live in a rainy or icy climate and value cornering stability and ice grip

  • Want a quieter, smoother ride with better fuel efficiency

  • Own an SUV or light truck that doesn’t need hardcore sidewall strength

Filed Under: All Terrain Tires Tagged With: #AllTerrainTires, #BFGoodrichKO3, #KO3vsAT3, #ToyoOpenCountryAT3, comparison

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Hey, it's Emre. I'm the proud dad of two cats, a former Bridgestone field engineer, and I hold degrees in Civil and Industrial engineering. I'm also a firm believer in the motto that "bigger is better." Read More…

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