Toyo Open Country AT3 is an off-road all-terrain tire suitable for a range of vehicles, including CUVs, SUVs, Jeeps, and pickup trucks. Its extensive size range and numerous positive online reviews make it a popular choice for those seeking a high-quality all-purpose tire. However, it’s essential to note that the definition of an all-terrain tire has evolved in recent years, and having clear expectations is crucial to avoid disappointment. Furthermore, not every tire performs optimally on every vehicle type. In this article, we’ll explore the ideal usage conditions and vehicle types for the Toyo Open Country AT3. Let’s get started!
| Toyo Open Country AT3 | |
|---|---|
| Best for | SUV and light truck owners seeking year-round performance with a balanced 50% on-road and 50% off-road capability. |
| Pros | Winter performance Wet performance (for its category) Long-lasting rubber Moderate off-road capability |
| Cons | Slightly noisy, Slightly rough, Wet breaking is slightly long |
| Test Report | vs Wildpeak AT3W & Baja Boss AT (July 21, 2022) |
| Category | All-Terrain Tire |
| Vehicle | Light Truck, SUV |
| Available Sizes (Rim) | 15’’, 16’’, 17’’, 18’’, 20’’, 22’’ (Ensure these tires fit your vehicle) |
| Weight | 26-76 lbs |
| Made In | White, GA, USA |
| Labels | 3PMSF |
| Warranty (P-metric) | 65,000 Miles |
| Warranty (LT Sizes) | 50,000 Miles |
Drawing from my experience as a former Bridgestone engineer, I can confidently affirm that the Toyo Open Country AT3 stands as a prime example of a well-balanced tire within Toyo’s product lineup. This versatile tire boasts exceptional performance across various aspects, with notable strengths including outstanding wet grip (comparable to tires with similar off-road capabilities, surpassing the BFG KO2 but falling slightly short of the Terra Grappler G2). Moreover, it delivers impressive traction on snowy surfaces. Whether you find yourself navigating challenging off-road terrains or cruising along highways, the Toyo Open Country AT3 is sure to meet your expectations. It ensures a comfortable and quiet ride, offering a smooth driving experience. While it may not be the absolute leader in noise reduction, it performs admirably, especially considering its robust durability.
Nobody Knows Better Than Data
As a former Bridgestone test engineer, I’ve tested hundreds of tires—and trust me, data never lies. Discount Tire Treadwell is a goldmine. Just enter your location and vehicle—boom, it shows you the best picks! You can even prioritize what matters most (comfort, durability, winter traction—you name it).
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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.
I highly recommend checking the below pages out before making any purchase:
- DiscountTire Deals:
https://www.discounttire.com/promotions - TireRack Deals:
https://www.tirerack.com/specialoffers - SimpleTire Deals:
https://simpletire.com/tire-deals
Table of Contents
Road Noise
All-terrain tires are known for their lug-type patterns, which can contribute to increased road noise. If you’re seeking a tire with longevity and robust traction, you may need to accept some level of road noise (Are all-terrain tires loud?).
The noise issue arises from airflow passing through the tire’s center section to the shoulders. To mitigate this, manufacturers aim to narrow the gap in the center section, disrupting the airflow pattern.
Toyo tackles this challenge with the Toyo Open Country AT3. The tire features ‘S’-type lugs that interlock, significantly reducing the void area in the center section. However, this design may lead to an increase in road noise over time. To counteract this, Toyo incorporates scalloped shoulder blocks that not only create additional biting edges for traction but also disrupt airflow, reducing noise.
Overall, the Toyo Open Country AT3 is somewhat noisy, which is expected for an off-road all-terrain tire. Nevertheless, it stands out as one of the top performers in its category.
A side note here: Even though some tires tend to make noise because of their tread patterns, it’s still possible to keep your tire noise down.
I’m leaving a perfect explanation below from DiscountTire for those who need it;
How to Keep Tire Noise Down? –>
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-noise
Dry Performance
The dry performance of all-terrain tires can be evaluated under three different layers. While one of them is related to traction, the other two dimensions are highly important for efficient handling.
Dry Traction
All-terrain tires are primarily designed to excel in traction, and achieving dry traction is a relatively straightforward task for them.
In this regard, the Toyo Open Country AT3 stands out with its alpha-plus design features. Thanks to its augmented lateral grooves and meticulously optimized contact patch, the Toyo Open Country AT3 boasts a distinctive capability for dry traction. However, what truly sets it apart, in my perspective, are its exceptional cornering stability and responsive steering.
Cornering Stability
Cornering stability in all-terrain tires can sometimes be a bit of a puzzle, and the sidewall design plays a significant role in this aspect.
It’s important to note that cornering stability can vary depending on whether you have LT (Light Truck) or Passenger Metric sizes in the Toyo Open Country AT3.
For LT sizes, you can expect solid and robust sidewalls that hold up well during cornering, resulting in smooth handling and stability.
When it comes to passenger metric sizes, some might have concerns since the Toyo Open Country AT3 doesn’t feature a 3-ply sidewall. However, it’s crucial to understand that the technology behind radial tires has evolved significantly, focusing on reducing the number of plies while maintaining durability and toughness.
Drawing from my experience working with Bridgestone, I had the opportunity to dissect and examine the internal structure of the Toyo Open Country AT3. Despite having a 2-ply sidewall, each ply is nearly twice as thick as the average all-terrain tire. This thickness lends the sidewalls of the Open Country AT3 exceptional strength, akin to that of a buffalo.
Regardless of whether you’re using LT or passenger metric sizes, you can rely on the Toyo Open Country AT3 for dependable cornering stability.
Steering Response
Steering response can be a bit challenging with all-terrain tires, especially if you’re not accustomed to them. This challenge arises from their heavyweight and the high void ratio inherent in all-terrain tire design.
A high void ratio is essential for optimal traction on loose terrain, and it’s a non-negotiable feature for manufacturers in this category.
However, the Toyo Open Country AT3 has a significant advantage in this regard. You’ll notice the interlocked center section lugs, which resemble the letter ‘S’. These lugs were introduced in the Toyo Open Country AT2 and have proven to work exceptionally well. In the case of the Toyo Open Country AT3, these lugs have been enlarged, resulting in increased spacing between them. Consequently, this modification has led to a slightly slower steering response compared to its predecessor, the AT2. Some drivers might even feel that this tire has a “communication problem” when transitioning from all-season tires.
In summary, the Toyo Open Country AT3 delivers relatively quick responsiveness, particularly for pickup trucks and Jeeps. However, for CUVs and smaller SUVs, there may be a noticeable delay, which is expected when using off-road all-terrain tires.
Wet Performance
Due to their stiff compounds, the wet traction of all-terrain tires sometimes falls short(hello Toyo AT2). Still, wet performance isn’t only related to traction. The hydroplaning resistance is also vital. It’s also known as aquaplaning resistance and it occurs at high velocity.
Let’s analyze these two seperatly.
Wet Traction
Wet traction is a critical factor in tire performance, influenced by compound stiffness and sipe density, with a particular focus on the presence and effectiveness of sipes. When evaluating wet traction, it’s important to distinguish between LT (Light Truck) and P-metric (Passenger Metric) tires (Are all-terrain tires good in rain?).
P-metric tires are typically accompanied by a UTQG (Uniform Tire Quality Grading) rating, which indicates the tire’s treadwear, wet traction, and heat resistance performance. The Toyo Open Country AT3 boasts a 600 A B rating, indicating it has an A-rated wet traction performance. However, it’s important to note that this test is conducted with locked brakes, which may not directly translate to newer vehicles equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Nonetheless, it provides valuable information for consideration.
In addition to its impressive UTQG rating, the Toyo Open Country AT3 features a well-siped pattern that significantly enhances its wet traction capabilities in P-metric sizes.
When it comes to LT metric sizes, which do not require a UTQG rating, tread design becomes a more critical factor. Typically, LT tires have a stiffer compound, which can affect their wet traction. However, the Toyo Open Country AT3 stands out in this regard.
The Toyo Open Country AT3 employs 3D Multi-Wave siping, increasing the number of biting edges on the tire. Additionally, its compound bears the 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) symbol, indicating that it maintains traction capabilities even at temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. This feature is especially advantageous for 3/4 ton or larger trucks. Notably, the standout feature for LT sizes is hydroplaning resistance.
In summary, the Toyo Open Country AT3 delivers commendable wet traction performance, thanks to its well-thought-out design and features, making it a reliable choice for a range of vehicles and conditions.
Hydroplaning Resistance
Hydroplaning resistance is a crucial aspect of tire performance, as it pertains to the tire’s ability to efficiently evacuate water from the tread. When a tire fails to expel water effectively, especially at high speeds, it can lead to the formation of a water layer between the tire and the road surface, resulting in a loss of braking and steering control for the driver.
The Toyo Open Country AT3 excels in hydroplaning resistance, thanks to its well-engineered design featuring wide lateral and horizontal grooves, as well as an open shoulder pattern. These design elements contribute to its exceptional ability to resist hydroplaning.
It’s important to note that while hydroplaning can be a concern in wet conditions, even the best tires may not always prevent it entirely. However, understanding what hydroplaning is and how to respond to it can help drivers stay safe. For an informative guide on dealing with hydroplaning, you can refer to this resource: How to Deal with Hydroplaning?.
Ensuring safe driving practices in wet conditions is essential for a secure and confident driving experience.
Winter Performance
Snow performance can be assessed across various scenarios, including light snow, deep snow, and icy conditions. It’s important to note that excelling on ice demands an abundance of sipes and an optimized contact patch. As a result, I advise against using all-terrain tires on icy terrain (Are all-terrain tires good in snow?).
A side note here: Understanding the snow performance of all-terrain tires can be quite challenging. For those who find it perplexing, I’d like to direct your attention to a helpful resource: “6 Best All-Terrain Tires for Snow by AT Tire Category“ This article is specifically designed to assist you in making informed decisions regarding all-terrain tires in snowy conditions.
Light-Snow
Light snow performance hinges on factors such as sipe density and the pattern’s compactness. Generally, tires marked with the 3PMSF symbol can handle light snow conditions.
Fortunately, Toyo Open Country AT3 proudly bears the 3PMSF marking, and its 3D wave sipes offer ample biting edges for reliable light snow traction. Additionally, the circumferential grooves of the Toyo Open Country AT3 enhance its self-cleaning capability, which also contributes to hydroplaning resistance.
All in all, this tire handles light snow conditions with ease, making it a strong contender and possibly one of the best all-terrain tires available.
Deep Snow
Deep snow presents a unique challenge as it’s considered loose ground, requiring tires to have a sufficient void area for solid traction. The Toyo Open Country AT3, being an all-terrain tire, boasts an acceptable void ratio that contributes to impressive deep snow traction.
Upon closer examination of the Toyo AT3, it’s evident that this tire is designed to maximize its biting edges. Features such as staggered shoulders, enhanced lateral grooves, and 3D-Wave sipes all work together to increase these biting edges, providing exceptional traction on ice. However, these attributes don’t make it stand out in deep snow conditions.
The real game-changer is its evenly distributed void areas, particularly the ‘S’ shape on the center section, which excels at gripping and moving through deep snow. Moreover, this design aids in self-cleaning, with additional assistance from stone ejection blocks.
In conclusion, the Toyo Open Country AT3 is an exceptional tire for deep snow usage and comes highly recommended.
Ice
Ice traction poses a unique challenge, requiring tires to have a compact contact patch. Typically, all-terrain tires struggle on icy surfaces, with only a few exceptions. These exceptions, however, lack consistency.
In the case of the Toyo Open Country AT3, it appears to be one of these exceptions. Thanks to its robust shoulders and relatively compact tread design, it manages to provide decent traction on ice. However, it’s important to note that even the best all-terrain tires’ performance on ice remains average at best. While the Toyo Open Country AT3 is a reliable choice for icy conditions, it’s crucial to exercise caution, especially if you’re not an experienced driver.
It’s worth mentioning that the Toyo Open Country AT3 is marked with 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake), indicating it has a severe snow rating. However, it’s essential to understand that this rating doesn’t necessarily cover ice performance.
Tread Life
The longevity of a tire’s tread largely hinges on the quality of its rubber compound. Toyo Tires is renowned for its exceptional compounds, which often result in outstanding tread life for most of its tire offerings (How long do all-terrain tires last?).
The Toyo Open Country AT3 is no exception in this regard. Its compound is designed to resist cuts and chipping, effectively reducing its wear rate. Additionally, the tire boasts a lightweight internal structure, further contributing to extended tread life. The unique ‘S-shaped center section’ design of the Open Country AT3 plays a crucial role in minimizing irregular wear, as seen in treadwear patterns.
Thanks to its distinctive compound and evenly distributed void area, the Open Country AT3 delivers impressive tread life, making it a cost-effective choice for those seeking long-lasting performance from their tires.
For those interested in maximizing the lifespan of their tires, you can learn more about how to achieve this by visiting the following link: How to Make Tires Last Longer.
Warranty
Toyo stands behind the quality and durability of its Open Country AT3 tires by offering a generous treadwear warranty. For P-metric sizes, Toyo provides a 65,000-mile treadwear warranty, while LT (Light Truck) sizes are covered by a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty. It’s important to note that these warranties are valid for a period of 5 years.
To further instill confidence in their product, Toyo also offers a 45-day or 500-mile trial period. If, for any reason, you find that the Open Country AT3 doesn’t meet your expectations within this timeframe, Toyo will gladly accept the tires back without any questions asked.
For more detailed information regarding the warranty coverage and terms, you can refer to the official warranty document provided by Toyo: Warranty Document. This document outlines the specifics of Toyo’s warranty program to ensure you have a clear understanding of the coverage offered.
Riding Comfort
When it comes to Toyo Open Country AT3, I’ve noticed that it shares a common trait with Bridgestone tires – a preference for durability over ride comfort. All-terrain tires, by nature, tend to have a stiffer compound to handle tough conditions, and you can expect a somewhat firmer ride. However, what sets the Toyo Open Country AT3 apart is its noticeably stiffer compound, even compared to most other all-terrain options out there. When you combine this robust compound with its strong internal structure, which includes a two-ply polyester casing and reinforced steel belts, you end up with a ride quality that I’d describe as rather harsh.
Now, if your main priority is a smooth and comfortable ride, there are a couple of things I’d suggest considering:
For LT (Light Truck) Tires: If your vehicle’s load and speed requirements allow for it, you might want to think about going for a D or C load range instead of the E load range. This could help soften the ride a bit.
For Passenger Car Tires: When it comes to passenger car tires, you’ll often come across two load range options – XL (Extra Load) and SL (Standard Load). XL tires sometimes have a higher load-carrying capacity than C load range tires, which can result in a firmer ride. If your tire size gives you the choice between XL and SL options, and both meet your vehicle’s minimum load and speed index requirements, picking SL tires might be the way to go for a smoother ride.
One important thing to keep in mind is that, generally speaking, all-terrain tires tend to offer good treadwear but may deliver a rougher ride compared to all-season tires. If you’re new to the world of all-terrain tires like I was, I highly recommend checking out the all-season vs all-terrain tires article before making any decisions. It’ll give you some valuable insights to help you navigate the terrain of tire choices and find the right fit for your needs.
Here is a perfect article what to expect from all-terrain tires for daily driving –> https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-for-daily-driving/
Off-Road Performance
Off-road performance is the primary focus of all-terrain tires. However, manufacturers often tailor these tires to excel in specific areas rather than providing all-around performance.
For example, while the BF Goodrich KO2 is exceptional for rock crawling, it may not be the best choice for mud driving.
The Toyo Open Country AT3 stands out as a more versatile option compared to many other all-terrain tires available. It can be considered a well-rounded tire, proficient in various off-road scenarios, making it a jack of all trades, albeit a master of none.
Dirt
From my experience, I’ve found the Toyo Open Country AT3 to be truly exceptional on dirt terrain. Its compact tread design and impressive self-cleaning ability make it highly effective in handling dirt surfaces.
Furthermore, the tire’s abundant sipes contribute to increased biting edges, significantly enhancing its traction on dirt. Overall, in my opinion, the Toyo Open Country AT3 stands out as one of the top choices for dirt terrain, including activities like off-road hunting.
Sand
In my experience, the ideal tire for sand driving is one that’s less aggressive. Tires with large lugs and wide void areas, especially those with deep treads, can struggle in sandy conditions. This is where the Toyo Open Country AT3 shines.
The key advantage of the Toyo Open Country AT3 for sand driving is its shallow tread design. Unlike tires with deep treads, it doesn’t dig into the sand, reducing the risk of getting stuck. However, it’s worth noting that this tire is somewhat narrow, so I’d recommend going for flotation sizes when tackling sandy terrain.
Mud
From my experience, successful mud driving demands certain tire characteristics: aggressive sidewalls, deep tread, and impressive self-cleaning capability. While the Toyo Open Country AT3 excels in some of these aspects, it falls a bit short in tread depth.
In my view, this tire performs decently in light mud conditions, but I wouldn’t recommend it for tackling deep mud. To truly conquer challenging mud terrain, you’d be better off with a tire designed specifically for such conditions.
Rock
Many enthusiasts praise the rock performance of the Toyo Open Country AT3, but my personal experience tells a different story.
During my few months of using Toyo AT3 tires, three out of four proved to be exceptionally durable. However, I did encounter an issue with one of them when I accidentally cut the sidewall while parking. It’s worth noting that I was using a p-metric size, which might have contributed to this incident. Nonetheless, I’d exercise caution when considering these tires for serious rock crawling.
On the flip side, Toyo Open Country AT3 demonstrates its reliability on gravel terrain. It doesn’t trap rocks and consistently delivers excellent traction.
If your off-road adventures frequently involve rocky terrain, I’d strongly recommend opting for the LT sizes of the Toyo Open Country AT3. P-metric sizes might not withstand the rigors of such demanding conditions.
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.
Size Selection
Before we dive into selecting the right tire size, it’s essential to understand the tire standards that manufacturers follow.
Technical Standards & Regulations
In Europe, the tire standardizing organization is called ETRTO. In the United States, it’s The Tire and Rim Association (TRA), while in Japan, it’s the Japanese Automobile Tire Manufacturers Association (JATMA). Although there may be other organizations, they generally align with one of these three.
When it comes to passenger car tires, TRA designates them by placing the letter “P” in front of the size to indicate conformity to the TRA standard. On the other hand, ETRTO and JATMA do not use any letters, which can sometimes be confusing when determining which standard is being used.
For light truck tires, TRA uses the letters “LT” in front of the tire size, while JATMA places the letters “LT” after the size. ETRTO, however, uses the letter “C” after the size to indicate tires of this type.
In the realm of medium truck tires, ETRTO uses the letter “C” after the size to designate tires designed according to their standard. In contrast, TRA and JATMA do not use any letters in this context.
Now, here’s what’s essential: Tires with the same dimensions (size) may have different maximum load capacities depending on the standard being followed. So, it’s crucial to consider the relevant standard when choosing tires.
When it comes to load capacity designations, “SL” (Standard Load) and “XL” (Extra Load) are used for all passenger car tires, regardless of which standard is being followed. In the ETRTO standard, “Reinforced” is also used as an alternative to “XL.”
Load Range, on the other hand, is specific to TRA. ETRTO and JATMA use the term “Load Index.” While TRA references Load Indexes, it’s important to note that the values provided are approximate.
To sum it up, understanding the tire standards and designations is vital as they play a significant role in determining the right tire size and load capacity. By considering the appropriate standards, you can make an informed decision when selecting tires that meet your vehicle’s requirements.
Here are two great articles if you wanna dive deeper:
Load Range vs Load Index: https://www.discounttire.com/learn/load-range-load-index
Tire Sizing System: https://www.discounttire.com/learn/euro-vs-pmetric-tires
How to Select the Right Tire Size Based on Your Requirements?
When it comes to selecting tire sizes for your vehicle, it’s important to keep in mind that most vehicles offer more than one original equipment size. Let’s take the 2019 Ford F-150 Lariat Crew Cab 4WD as an example. You have three different tire size options: 275/55R20 SL, 275/65R18 Load Range C, or 275/65R18 SL.
Note: I use Toyo Open Country AT3 for an example tire. You can use this link to see tire options for your vehicle and then make a comparison between the sizes:
https://www.discounttire.com/fitment/vehicle
If you don’t know your tire size: https://tireterrain.com/find-tires-by-vin-number/
Let’s focus on comparing the 275/65R18 SL and 275/65R18 Load Range C options for a more detailed comparison. Your decision should be based on your priorities. If you prioritize a smooth ride and better handling, the SL option is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value hauling or towing performance and tire longevity, the Load Range C option would be a better fit.
As a tire engineer, my perspective often revolves around load-carrying capacity. Generally, tires with higher load capabilities tend to provide a stiffer ride. However, there’s a bit of an illusion to consider. When you compare the two tires in the same size, the SL-rated tire may initially appear to have a higher load capability. But here’s the catch: P metric tires, like the SL option, need to be derated by a factor of 1.1 when used on a truck. Crunching the numbers reveals that the SL option actually has a lower maximum load capability. Additionally, it boasts a lower tread depth, which translates to better responsiveness.
The same principles I mentioned earlier also apply when comparing XL and E Load range tires. In summary, if your vehicle allows for Passenger Car or LT (Light Truck) tires, going with a passenger option will provide you with better on-road manners. However, if you find yourself venturing off-road frequently, own a working truck, or regularly engage in towing and hauling heavy loads, then LT tires are generally the better choice for your needs.
Couple of tips for towing;
- Even though the load index of passenger car tires fits, when it comes to towing, sidewall stability is the issue. Hence, LT tires with Load Range C, D, or E provide better stability.
- Generally, a load index higher than 119 is recommended for towing
- Proper loading is important for even wearing. 60/40 rule should be followed. 60% of the weight should be on the front axle and 40%of weight should be applied rear axle of the trailer. Besides that, try to center load. Start with heavier ones if you gonna stack them up.
To wrap it up, selecting the right tires comes down to choosing the ones that align with your driving preferences and specific requirements.
What is the difference between Toyo Open Country AT, MT, RT, and CT?
Understanding Toyo’s tire naming system is crucial as it provides valuable insights into the tire’s intended use and capabilities. Here’s a brief overview of Toyo’s Open Country tire lineup to help you navigate our upcoming comparisons:
Toyo Open Country AT:
- Designed for on/off-road use.
- Offers substantial traction on various surfaces.
- Excels in mild off-road conditions.
- Impressive wet and snow performance.
Toyo Open Country MT:
- Geared for maximum off-road traction.
- Well-suited for demanding off-road terrains.
- On-road performance is not its primary strength.
Toyo Open Country RT:
- Positioned between the AT and MT models.
- Capable of handling severe off-road conditions.
- Provides a balanced performance for on-road driving.
Toyo Open Country CT:
- Designed for on/off-road use with a focus on commercial applications.
- Boasts commercial-grade durability.
- Features the 3-peak mountain snowflake marking for winter conditions compliance.
Toyo’s extensive lineup ensures that there’s a tire to meet your specific needs, no matter the application. Your task is to define your operation, and Toyo will have the right tire to handle the rest!
Price
The tire market has a dynamic price policy. Hence, in my point of view, sharing tire price is pointless.
Though, I’ve analyzed the top 10 brands of most popular tire brands.
Here are the dealers with a reasonable price range,
DiscountTire
- Biggest dealer in the US. Founded in 1960
- 1000 stores in 35 states. You most probably find one on your parallel street
- Free rotation and balancing
- 5% off for DiscountTire cardholders on online purchase
- Highest rated online tire dealer in Consumer Affairs
- Almost all brands are available
- Delivery takes 2-4 days (30% shorter average waiting time when you book online)
- Frequent discounts and promotions
Toyo Open Country AT3: https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/toyo-tire-open-country-a-t-iii
TireRack
- Fast and Free shipping
- Usually delivered in 1 day
- Joint venture with DiscountTire(their installers and dealers are on your service)
- Tons of installer options, they also help you to choose the best one
- Mobile installers in many areas, your tires will be replaced while you’re working in the office
- Tire test results and comparisons can be found on the most product page
- 4.6/5 points on Google rate
Toyo Open Country AT3: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/toyo-open-country-a-t-iii
SimpleTire
- Free shipping
- Delivered in 2 days
- Verified shops near you(for mount and balance)
- Mobile installation option
- 7 million customers since 2021
- 4.7/5 points on Google rate
- Top-notch customer service, you may even request a price match
Toyo Open Country AT3: https://simpletire.com/brands/toyo-tires/open-country-a-t-iii
While choosing dealers, I especially pay attention to reliability. All of the dealers on this list have 15-20 years of experience in the online tire business. Therefore, I can guarantee a smooth and fast tire buying process.
Conclusion
Toyo Open Country AT3 stands out as a versatile all-terrain tire within Toyo’s tire lineup. Its impressive performance, especially in wet conditions and severe off-road situations, makes it a top choice for various applications.
| Toyo Open Country AT3 | |
|---|---|
| Best for | SUV and light truck owners seeking year-round performance with a balanced 50% on-road and 50% off-road capability. |
| Pros | Winter performance Wet performance (for its category) Long-lasting rubber Moderate off-road capability |
| Cons | Slightly noisy, Slightly rough, Wet breaking is slightly long |
| Test Report | vs Wildpeak AT3W & Baja Boss AT (July 21, 2022) |
| Category | All-Terrain Tire |
| Vehicle | Light Truck, SUV |
| Available Sizes (Rim) | 15’’, 16’’, 17’’, 18’’, 20’’, 22’’ (Ensure these tires fit your vehicle) |
| Weight | 26-76 lbs |
| Made In | White, GA, USA |
| Labels | 3PMSF |
| Warranty (P-metric) | 65,000 Miles |
| Warranty (LT Sizes) | 50,000 Miles |
A Quick Check List:
- LT sizes have stronger sidewalls. That feature makes them more durable. Yet, these tires offer a rougher ride. (LT vs P-Metric tires)
- XL sizes tend to carry more load and offer better handling. Hence, if you’ll go with p-metric sizes, they might be a better pick for hauling and towing( XL vs SL tires)
- Please pay attention to the load index & load range and speed index. These metrics are essential if you expect decent tread life
- There isn’t a bad tire in the market right now, you should just know what to expect from tires
If you have any additional questions or need further information, please feel free to ask in the comments below. I’m here to provide answers and assistance as quickly as possible!
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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