For years, the Toyo Open Country AT3 has been my go-to tire. Since mounting my first set in 2021, its reliability has been unmatched, but Toyo has been busy making changes. Now, having tested the latest LT version, it’s clear they’ve shifted focus from an on-road to a genuine off-road All-Terrain. As a former Bridgestone engineer, I’ve tracked this tire’s evolution closely. In this definitive review, I’ll dive into the test data, synthesize customer feedback, and offer my personal, long-term observations on how the AT3 stacks up today. Let’s roll.
A side note here: I highly recommend using Tire Rack’s Tire Decision Guide Tool before making any purchase. It shortened my decision process significantly and ensures you pick the right tire for your needs.
Quick Look
Toyo Open Country A/T III
Toyo Open Country AT3 is the tire you can expect reliable tread life and responsiveness from. Due to its strong carcass and sidewalls, it’s noisier than most, but it takes driver feedback quickly and cornering feels confident. Wet performance is significantly better than before. The compound improvement works perfectly. You can see it in the test data. The new compound also performs well on snow and ice, giving predictable control when conditions turn. Off-road capability has clearly been a focus: dirt, sand, mud, and rock all show this tire leaning harder into genuine trail work. The durability remains excellent, with that stiff construction holding up to heavy use and rough terrain. It reflects the noise on uneven pavement a bit more than before, but it’s not annoying and mostly because of the stronger inner structure. In short, I think this is one of the best options if you’re okay with the slight noise. Especially for trucks where you also spend time off the road from time to time.
Deals I Check Before Making a Purchase
Raw Test Data
Dry Performance: Steady and Dependable
Looking at independent tests, forum feedback, and my own drive sessions, I think the Toyo Open Country AT3 dry performance is solid and dependable. It stopped in 134 feet with 0.72g cornering grip. Not the sharpest in the class, but predictable and stable. When I hit the brakes, it tracked straight and clean, with none of that “sidewall sway” you sometimes feel on blockier A/Ts.
Comparisons tell the story: against Falken AT4W (132 ft, 0.72g), Toyo brakes about 2 feet longer but matches cornering grip. Versus Cooper Road+Trail AT (134 ft, 0.74g), it stops at the same distance but gives up a bit in cornering. Against Nitto Terra Grappler G3 (126 ft, 0.74g), the Toyo is 8 feet longer and corners slightly less aggressively. I think the key is Toyo’s focus shifted toward off-road durability rather than absolute dry pavement sharpness. That reinforced carcass limits tread block movement under load, which really shows in stability on SUVs and ½-ton pickups.
For ¾-ton and 1-ton trucks, that reinforced LT-E casing becomes even more valuable. The AT3 tracks straighter and feels more secure under towing than softer designs, putting it in the dependable category for load stability.
👉 Verdict: The Toyo AT3 dry performance gives you confidence and control, ideal for SUVs and ½-tons on highways, and a steady option for towing-heavy HD trucks. It won’t win autocross, but that’s not what you bought an AT tire for.
Wet Performance: Finally Gets It Right
In heavy rain, the Toyo AT3 wet performance has improved significantly. It now stops in 164 feet with 0.57g traction. That’s a major step forward from the previous generation. Against Falken AT4W (171 ft, 0.57g), Toyo actually brakes 7 feet shorter while matching traction. Versus Nitto Terra Grappler G3 (158 ft, 0.61g), it’s 6 feet longer and gives up a bit of grip, but the gap has closed considerably. Against Cooper Road+Trail AT (172 ft, 0.59g), Toyo stops 8 feet shorter with similar traction.
The compound has clearly been reworked. Toyo improved wet adhesion without sacrificing durability. Water evacuation remains strong with those deep grooves clearing water well, and now the rubber bites into slick asphalt more effectively. Drivers in the Southeast or Pacific Northwest will appreciate this upgrade, especially compared to the older version.
On ¾-ton and 1-ton trucks, the improvement is even more noticeable. With trailers or heavy loads, the AT3’s stiff casing keeps the truck tracking straight under braking while delivering respectable stopping distances. HD owners report it feels stable and predictable when loaded, since Toyo’s reinforced construction doesn’t wander.
👉 Verdict: The Toyo AT3 wet performance is now a genuine strength. It’s competitive with class leaders and no longer the compromise it used to be.
Note from the Expert: When it comes to rain, I always emphasize two things: compound grip and water evacuation. You can see the full details in my analysis, but if you take just one thing away, remember that an AT tire’s stiff nature makes achieving top-tier wet performance a constant battle. This is why the question, Are All-Terrain Tires Good in Rain?, requires a nuanced answer that balances tread design against rubber stiffness.
Winter Performance: Predictable When It Counts
On snow-packed roads, the Toyo Open Country AT3 holds its line with a 75.1-foot stop and a 42.7-foot launch. That’s solid for light to moderate snow in Canada or the Midwest. In my sessions, it felt stable braking in slush with no twitchiness or unpredictable slides. Against Falken AT4W (82.28 ft stop, 49.06 ft launch), Toyo actually stops 7 feet shorter and launches 6 feet quicker. Versus Cooper Road+Trail AT (71.54 ft, 42.47 ft), it’s about 3.5 feet longer on stopping but nearly identical on launch. Against Nitto Terra Grappler G3 (86.87 ft, 45.16 ft), Toyo is significantly better across the board.
On ice, it stops at 46.5 feet, which is competitive. Bridgestone Dueler A/T Ascent leads at 41.2 feet, but Toyo sits in the middle of the pack alongside Falken AT4W (47.5 ft) and Nitto Terra Grappler G3 (47.8 ft).
Toyo’s balanced siping density and compound spread grip evenly, which feels calm and predictable. On ¾-ton and 1-ton trucks, the stiff casing means less flex to dig into deep snow, which reduces aggressive bite compared to dedicated winter tires. The AT3 is fine for plowed routes and towing, delivering stable control without drama.
👉 Verdict: The Toyo AT3 winter performance is reliable for occasional snow days and competitive in its class. Not the most aggressive, but predictable and safe.
Note from the Expert: Our discussions often boil down to the core tradeoff. On one hand, you must understand why all-terrain tires are truly effective in deep snow, but not on ice. On the other hand, you face the 3PMSF Paradox—the hidden cost of that badge. The short answer is: The 3PMSF badge certifies traction, but it costs you durability. Dive into our full analysis on the critical 3PMSF rating for severe winter and off-road service, and its hidden costs, before you risk your rig on the trail.
Off-Road Performance: Where the Real Evolution Happened
The Toyo Open Country AT3 now shows significantly stronger trail numbers: 8.8 dirt, 8.7 sand, 8.2 mud, and 8.2 rock. This is where Toyo’s shift toward genuine off-road capability becomes obvious. On dirt and sand, it feels secure and confident. You don’t get that squirm some softer A/Ts have. In my runs on rocky ground, the casing stayed firm, which matches what HD truck owners say when hauling loads. It feels planted, not wandering.
Against competitors, the improvement is clear. BFGoodrich KO3 leads with 9.5 dirt, 9.5 sand, 9.2 mud, and 9.5 rock, but Toyo has closed the gap. Versus Falken AT4W (8.5 dirt, 8.2 sand, 8.5 mud, 8.8 rock), Toyo now matches or exceeds across the board. Nitto Terra Grappler G3 (6.8 dirt, 6.8 sand, 6.5 mud, 6.7 rock) trails significantly behind.
Mud performance at 8.2 is solid for weekend trails and occasional muddy conditions. It’s not quite at KO3 (9.2) or Nitto Ridge Grappler (9.3) level, but it’s competitive with most in the class. The tread clears reasonably well, though deep clay can still pack up.
On ¾-ton and 1-ton trucks, the stiff carcass helps. It resists deformation better than softer designs, making the AT3 stable on gravel and rock climbs even under heavy loads.
👉 Verdict: The Toyo AT3 off-road performance is now a genuine strength. Well-rounded for dirt, sand, and rock, stable under HD loads, and competitive in mud for most trail scenarios.
Note from the Expert: Every successful day on the trail is about preparation and physics, because tire longevity is earned, not given. Before you even start, you must master the critical link between tire pressure and load range for every rig to maximize your contact patch. Once moving, remember your ultimate off-road armor is your sidewall protection against the inevitable pinch flat. And finally, your traction on the obstacle is dictated by choosing the right aggressive vs hybrid tread pattern for your terrain. Master those three steps, and your rig will be ready for anything.
Comfort & Noise: The Trade-Off for Toughness
Day to day, the Toyo AT3 scores 6.0 for comfort. That’s louder and firmer than the previous generation, reflecting the shift toward a stronger off-road focus. For context, the quietest AT tire we’ve tested is the Vredestein Pinza AT at 7.33, so 6.0 puts Toyo in the middle of the pack. On the highway, you’ll hear more road noise than before, especially on uneven pavement. That’s the trade-off for the stiffer carcass and more aggressive off-road capability.
Against competitors: Cooper Road+Trail AT (7.08) and Bridgestone Dueler A/T Ascent (6.75) are quieter for daily driving. Falken AT4W (6.58) is slightly louder but similar. BFGoodrich KO3 (6.42) and Yokohama Geolandar A/T4 (5.75) are in the same range or noisier.
One thing stands out: the noise isn’t annoying. It’s not harsh or droning. It’s just there, a reminder that you’re running a tire built for durability and trails. For commuting and family trips, it’s still livable. You’ll notice it more than the old version, but it’s not intrusive.
On ¾-ton and 1-ton trucks, the firmer ride translates to better stability. Owners report it feels more planted than softer designs, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads.
👉 Verdict: The Toyo AT3 comfort and noise reflect its tougher construction. Not the quietest anymore, but still reasonable for daily use and more stable under load.
Tread Life & Durability: Built to Last
From what I’ve seen in reviews and my own notes, the Toyo AT3 treadwear is strong. Most drivers see 60–70k miles with regular rotations, and P-metrics sometimes push beyond that. The compound resists chips on gravel and holds up well to rough terrain. If you skip rotations on lighter SUVs, you can get outer lug cupping, but that’s true for most AT tires.
The harder compound that improves durability is the same one that made wet performance a challenge in the old version. Now, Toyo has found a better balance. The tire still lasts, but it also grips better in rain. That’s a meaningful achievement.
On ¾-ton and 1-ton trucks, tread life depends on discipline. Rotated properly, the AT3 matches BFGoodrich KO2/KO3 mileage and often outlasts Falken AT4W under constant hauling. Skip maintenance, and you’ll see wear patterns fast. The stiffer casing resists deformation under heavy loads, which helps even wear when you’re towing or hauling regularly.
HD owners consistently report the AT3 holds up better than softer designs, especially when running at higher pressures for load capacity.
👉 Verdict: The Toyo AT3 longevity is a key selling point, especially on HD trucks where it resists wear better than softer designs while now delivering improved wet grip.
Who Should Buy This Tire: Best for Trail-Ready Trucks in Varied Climates
The Toyo AT3 makes the most sense for drivers who need genuine off-road capability without giving up wet weather safety. For SUVs, Jeeps, and ½-ton pickups, it balances daily driving with serious trail toughness. The wet performance improvement means it’s now a strong choice for the Southeast and Pacific Northwest, where rain is frequent. For ¾-ton and 1-ton trucks, it’s one of the best choices outside of BFGoodrich KO3, offering stability and durability without punishing ride quality.
In snow-belt regions with constant winter weather, dedicated winter tires or KO-series are safer picks. But for occasional snow and regular trail use, the AT3 delivers predictable control.
The shift is clear: Toyo moved this tire from comfortable on-road cruiser to capable off-road performer. If you spend time on dirt, sand, and rock, and need a tire that won’t leave you stranded in the rain, this is a strong option. If you want maximum highway comfort and never leave pavement, look elsewhere.
👉 In short: The Toyo Open Country AT3 shines in off-road capability, wet performance, and tread life, with enough daily comfort for regular use. It’s tougher, more capable, and ready for serious work.
Tire Size Selection: The Basics You Can’t Skip
Even the best tread design can’t rescue a tire that’s built too weak. Back when I was testing tires at Bridgestone, I saw all-terrain models that should’ve performed but fell short — simply because the basics (size, load strength, and speed rating) weren’t matched to the vehicle.
P-Metric vs. LT (Light Truck) Tires
The first step is knowing whether you need LT or passenger tires. LT (Light Truck) tires are built with extra reinforcement and stiff sidewalls, designed for towing, hauling, or off-road use. Passenger (P-metric) tires are lighter, smoother, and tuned for daily comfort and fuel efficiency — but they’ll flex more under load.
Understanding Tire Load Range: XL vs. E-Load
Then comes the tire load index and load range — essentially your tire’s strength rating. Here’s where things split between passenger XL and LT E:
XL (Extra Load) is a passenger tire with reinforced sidewalls. It can handle a bit more pressure (~41 PSI) than a standard SL tire and is perfect for SUVs, crossovers, or light trucks that carry extra gear, passengers, or small trailers. XL tires ride softer and quieter than LT options, making them ideal for daily use.
E Load Range is an LT tire class built with a much thicker casing. E-rated tires can handle far more pressure (up to ~80 PSI) and heavier loads, which makes them essential for ¾-ton and 1-ton trucks towing trailers or hauling close to max capacity. The trade-off is weight, stiffer ride, more road noise, and a small drop in fuel efficiency.
Put simply: XL is for “extra luggage and family,” while E is for “truck bed full of bricks or a car trailer.”
Why the Tire Speed Rating Matters for Safety
Finally, don’t overlook the tire speed rating. It’s not just about top speed — it measures how well a tire handles heat and stress at highway pace. Lower ratings (like S) tend to ride softer and last longer, while higher ratings (H, T) feel more stable and responsive under sharp maneuvers. Heat build-up is the silent killer of tires, and speed rating is your safeguard.
Bottom line: Match your tire’s construction (LT vs P-metric), load range (XL vs E), and speed rating to your vehicle’s demands. Get those right, and everything else — off-road grip, winter traction, comfort — will finally perform the way it was designed to.
Sizes
| 15” | 16” | 17” | 18” | 19” | 20” | 22” |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P 215/75R15 100T SL OWL | 215/65R16 102T XL BSW | 215/65R17 103T XL BSW | 225/55R18 102H XL BSW | 255/55R19 111H XL BSW | 245/50R20 105H XL BSW | 285/45R22 114H XL BSW |
| P 225/75R15 102T SL BSW | 215/70R16 100T SL BSW | 225/60R17 103T XL BSW | 225/60R18 104T XL BSW | 255/60R19 113H XL BSW | P 245/60R20 107T SL BSW | LT 285/50R22 121/118R E BSW |
| LT 235/75R15 104/101S C OWL | LT 215/85R16 115/112Q E BSW | 225/65R17 102T SL BSW | 235/60R18 107T XL BSW | 255/50R20 109T XL BSW | LT 285/55R22 124/121S E BSW | |
| P 235/75R15 108T XL OWL | 225/70R16 103T SL OWL | 235/65R17 108H XL BSW | 235/65R18 110T XL BSW | 255/55R20 110H XL BSW | LT 295/50R22 122/119T E BSW | |
| P 265/75R15 112S SL OWL | LT 225/75R16 115/112Q E BSW | P 235/75R17 108S SL BSW | 245/60R18 109T XL BSW | 265/50R20 111T XL BSW | LT 295/55R22 125/122T E BSW | |
| LT 30X9.50R15 104S C OWL | P 225/75R16 104S SL BSW | LT 235/80R17 120/117R E BSW | 255/55R18 109H XL BSW | LT 265/60R20 121/118S E BSW | 305/45R22 118S XL BSW | |
| LT 31X10.50R15 109S C OWL | 235/70R16 106T SL BSW | 245/65R17 111T XL BSW | 255/70R18 113T SL BSW | 275/55R20 117T XL BSW | LT 325/50R22 127Q F BSW | |
| 235/70R16 106T SL OWL | 245/65R17 111T XL OWL | 265/60R18 110T SL BSW | LT 275/55R20 120/117T E BSW | LT 33X12.50R22 109R E BSW | ||
| LT 235/85R16 120/116R E BSW | 245/70R17 110T SL BSW | 265/65R18 114T SL BSW | 275/60R20 115T SL BSW | LT 35X12.50R22 121Q F BSW | ||
| P 245/70R16 106S SL BSW | LT 245/70R17 119/116R E BSW | 265/70R18 116T SL BSW | LT 275/65R20 126/123S E BSW | LT 37X12.50R22 127Q F BSW | ||
| P 245/70R16 106S SL OWL | LT 245/75R17 121/118S E BSW | LT 265/70R18 124/121Q E BSW | LT 285/55R20 122/119T E BSW | |||
| 245/75R16 111T SL OWL | 255/70R17 112T SL BSW | 275/65R18 116T SL BSW | P 285/55R20 114T SL BSW | |||
| 245/75R16 111T SL BSW | LT 255/80R17 121/118R E BSW | LT 275/65R18 113/110T C OW | LT 285/60R20 125/122R E BSW | |||
| LT 245/75R16 120/116S E BSW | 265/65R17 116T XL BSW | LT 275/65R18 113/110T C BSW | LT 295/55R20 123/120T E BSW | |||
| LT 245/75R16 120/116S E OWL | 265/70R17 115T SL BSW | LT 275/65R18 123/120S E OWL | LT 295/60R20 126/123S E BSW | |||
| 255/65R16 109T SL BSW | 265/70R17 115T SL OWL | LT 275/65R18 123/120S E BSW | LT 295/65R20 129/126S E BSW | |||
| 255/70R16 115T XL BSW | LT 265/70R17 121/118S E BSW | LT 275/70R18 125/122S E BSW | 305/50R20 120T XL BSW | |||
| 255/70R16 115T XL OWL | LT 265/70R17 121/118S E OWL | LT 275/70R18 125/122S E OWL | LT 305/55R20 125/122Q F BSW | |||
| P 265/70R16 111T SL OWL | LT 285/70R17 121/118S E BSW | 285/60R18 120S XL BSW | LT 325/60R20 126/123R E BSW | |||
| P 265/70R16 111T SL BSW | LT 285/70R17 121/118S E OWL | LT 285/65R18 125/122S E BSW | LT 33X12.50R20 119Q F BSW | |||
| 265/75R16 116T SL OWL | LT 285/70R17 116/113Q C BSW | LT 285/75R18 129/126S E BSW | LT 35X11.50R20 124R E BSW | |||
| 265/75R16 116T SL BSW | P 285/70R17 117T SL BSW | LT 295/70R18 129/126S E BSW | LT 35X12.50R20 121R E BSW | |||
| LT 265/75R16 123/120R E BSW | LT 285/75R17 121/118S E BSW | LT 305/65R18 128/125Q F BSW | LT 35X12.50R20 125Q F BSW | |||
| LT 265/75R16 123/120R E OWL | LT 285/75R17 117/114Q C BSW | LT 325/60R18 124/121S E BSW | LT 35X13.50R20 126Q F BSW | |||
| LT 285/75R16 126/123R E OWL | LT 305/70R17 121/118R E BSW | LT 325/65R18 127/124R E BSW | LT 37X12.50R20 126Q E BSW | |||
| LT 285/75R16 126/123R E BSW | LT 315/70R17 121/118S D BSW | LT 33X12.50R18 122Q F BSW | ||||
| LT 295/75R16 128/125R E BSW | LT 35X11.50R17 118Q C BSW | LT 35X12.50R18 128Q F BSW | ||||
| LT 305/70R16 124/121R E BSW | LT 35X12.50R17 121R E BSW | LT 35X12.50R18 118R D BSW | ||||
| LT 315/75R16 127/124R E BSW | LT 37X12.50R18 128Q E BSW |
For Better Understanding: 215/55R17 94V SL BWL
215: Tire Width
55: Aspect Ratio
R: Radial
17: Rim Size
94: Load Index
V: Speed Index
SL, XL: Load Range( LT sizes use C, D, E of F instead)
OWL: Outlined White Letters
BWL: Black Sidewall
Selecting the right tire size can make a significant difference in your vehicle’s performance. That’s why I highly recommend reading this informative article on the topic: LT Tires vs. Passenger Tires. It will provide you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
Final Verdict: A Tire That Found Its True Purpose
The Toyo Open Country AT3 isn’t perfect, but it’s evolved into a genuinely capable all-terrain tire. It delivers solid dry performance (134 ft stop, 0.72g cornering) and stays stable under load thanks to its stiff casing. The big story is wet performance: stopping in 164 feet with 0.57g traction is a massive improvement that makes this tire trustworthy in rain. In winter, it’s calm and predictable on plowed snow and competitive on ice, though dedicated winter tires still have an edge in extreme conditions. Off-road is where the evolution shines: 8.8 dirt, 8.7 sand, 8.2 mud, and 8.2 rock show Toyo leaning hard into genuine trail capability. What sets it apart is longevity: 60–70k miles with proper care is excellent for an AT tire this capable.
The trade-off is comfort. At 6.0, it’s noisier than before, especially on uneven pavement. But that’s the price for the stronger construction and improved off-road performance.
👉 If you want an all-terrain that handles trails confidently, won’t leave you stranded in the rain, and lasts for years, the Toyo AT3 is a strong choice. For maximum highway comfort, look elsewhere. For serious off-road work with balanced wet weather capability, this tire has found its purpose. It’s shifted from comfortable cruiser to capable performer, and that evolution makes sense for most SUV, ½-ton, and HD truck owners who actually use their trucks off-road.
Toyo Open Country AT3 Related Articles
Frequently Asked Questions about the Toyo Open Country AT3
How does the Toyo AT3 perform in dry conditions compared to Falken AT4W?
AT3 brakes about 2 feet longer (134 ft vs 132 ft) but matches cornering grip (0.72g). It feels stable and predictable, while Falken is slightly sharper on pavement.Is the Toyo AT3 safe in heavy rain?
Much improved. AT3 now stops in 164 feet with 0.57g traction, actually 7 feet shorter than Falken AT4W (171 ft). Wet performance is now a genuine strength.Can the Toyo AT3 handle snow and ice?
Calm and predictable on plowed routes (75.1-ft snow stop, 42.7-ft launch) and 46.5-ft on ice. Competitive with most AT tires, though dedicated winter tires still grip better in extreme conditions.What are the Toyo AT3's off-road strengths and weaknesses?
Strong across the board: 8.8 dirt, 8.7 sand, 8.2 mud, 8.2 rock. This is a genuine off-road tire now, competitive with most in the class and significantly improved from previous versions.How quiet and durable is the Toyo AT3 for daily use?
Comfort sits at 6.0, reflecting the stiffer construction. It's noisier than before but not annoying. With rotations, many see 60–70k miles. LT sizes on HD trucks can match KO-series longevity if maintained.
For those who prefer to see whole market analyze:
- https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires-for-snow/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-1-2-ton-truck-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-3-4-ton-truck-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-rt-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-tires-for-snow-plowing/
- https://tireterrain.com/on-road-all-terrain-tires-highway/
A couple of popular size analyses:
- https://tireterrain.com/best-35x12-50r20-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-285-70r17-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-275-55r20-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/best-275-65r18-all-terrain-tires/
Want to learn more about all-terrain tires:
- https://tireterrain.com/highway-tires-vs-all-terrain-vs-mud-terrain/
- https://tireterrain.com/all-season-vs-all-terrain-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/tire-load-index-and-load-range/
- https://tireterrain.com/lt-tires-vs-passenger-tires/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-for-daily-driving/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-in-snow/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-loud/
- https://tireterrain.com/how-long-do-all-terrain-tires-last/
- https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-in-rain/
- https://tireterrain.com/off-road-tire-pressure-load-range-for-every-rig/
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