Best 235/65R18 Tires for SUV in 2025: Top Picks for Comfort, Safety & Performance

Last updated on August 11th, 2025

Looking for the best 235/65R18 tires for your SUV this year? Whether you’re navigating snowy mountain roads, cruising city streets, or towing a camper cross-country, the right tire makes all the difference. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the perfect set?

In this guide, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. Based on real-world performance, industry reviews, and expert insights, we’ve ranked the top 235/65R18 SUV tires of 2025. Whether you drive a Honda CR-V, Ford Edge, Toyota Highlander, or Jeep Grand Cherokee, this post will help you make an informed, confident decision.

Why the 235/65R18 Size Matters for SUV Owners

The 235/65R18 tire size strikes an ideal balance between ride comfort, traction, and handling. It’s a popular OEM tire size for midsize and full-size SUVs thanks to its:

• Wide footprint for enhanced stability
  
• 65% aspect ratio providing a smoother ride
  
• 18-inch diameter compatible with many stock and aftermarket rims
  

Vehicles that commonly use 235/65R18 tires include:

• Toyota Highlander
  
• Ford Edge
  
• Nissan Murano
  
• Hyundai Santa Fe
  
• Honda Passport
  
• Kia Sorento
  

For those wanting to maintain manufacturer specifications or improve performance without sacrificing comfort, sticking to this size is a smart move.

How to Choose the Right 235/65R18 SUV Tires

Choosing tires that fit your driving habits, climate, and budget ensures the best performance and safety. Here’s what experts recommend:

Know Your Driving Needs

SUVs are versatile, but tires should match your specific use. If most of your driving is city and highway, touring tires like Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus offer quiet, stable rides. For light off-road adventures, all-terrain options like Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail provide better grip on dirt and gravel.

Consider Weather and Climate

The right tire must perform well in your local weather. Look for the 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) certification for winter-ready tires. The Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady is an excellent all-season tire with verified winter traction. In mild climates, all-season tires without this symbol may suffice.

Tire Longevity and Warranty

Treadwear warranties reflect expected durability. Tires like the Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus carry an 80,000-mile warranty, ideal for high-mileage drivers. Lower-cost options like Cooper Endeavor Plus provide solid wear at budget prices but with shorter warranties.

Balance Comfort, Performance, and Cost

Some tires prioritize comfort and quietness, like the Michelin Premier LTX, while others focus on rugged durability or fuel efficiency. Understanding your priorities will guide your choice.

Fuel Efficiency Matters

Low rolling resistance tires save fuel. Many premium tires incorporate compounds or designs to help, like Yokohama’s silica-based tread compounds.

Expert Tip:

Always check your vehicle’s owner manual for recommended tire size and load ratings. Using the wrong size or load capacity can compromise safety and handling.

Top 9 Best 235/65R18 Tires for SUVs in 2025

Here are our expert-recommended tires, ranked for performance, comfort, durability, and value.

1. Michelin Defender LTX M/S – Best for Longevity & All-Season Confidence

If you’re looking for a tire that’s as durable as your SUV, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S is tough to beat. Built for daily drivers, weekend warriors, and heavy haulers alike, this tire blends year-round reliability with a quiet, stable ride. It handles wet roads like a champ, resists wear impressively, and performs just as well on a family road trip as it does towing a trailer.

Key Features

• Evertread™ compound extends tread life even under heavy loads
  
• MaxTouch Construction evenly distributes forces for long, even wear
  
• Excellent hydroplaning resistance thanks to wide circumferential grooves
  
• Fuel-efficient design helps reduce rolling resistance
  
• Available with an 80,000-mile warranty for certain models
  

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• ✅ Outstanding tread life – often exceeds 70,000 miles
  
• ✅ Strong dry and wet performance
  
• ✅ Quiet and comfortable on highways
  
• ✅ Great for towing or carrying heavy cargo
  
• ✅ Works well across a wide range of climates
  

Cons:

• ❌ Price is higher than many competitors
  
• ❌ Winter traction not as strong as a true all-weather or snow tire
  

Why We Like It

This tire is a true workhorse. It’s perfect for SUV drivers who rack up serious mileage and need a tire that won’t flinch at rain, rough pavement, or weekend hauls.

2. Continental CrossContact LX25 – Best for Quiet Comfort & Wet Weather Control

The Continental CrossContact LX25 is engineered for SUV owners who value a refined ride and confident wet traction. This tire excels in urban and highway settings, delivering a smooth, whisper-quiet experience with sharp steering response and top-tier stopping power on slick roads. It’s also backed by Continental’s eco-conscious and long-wearing technology, making it a strong daily driver option for families and commuters.

Key Features

• Comfort Ride Technology absorbs road imperfections for a smoother feel
  
• EcoPlus™ Technology improves fuel efficiency and extends tread life
  
• 3D siping for better traction in light snow and rain
  
• Noise-optimized tread pattern for a quieter ride
  
• 70,000-mile limited treadwear warranty
  

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• ✅ Exceptionally quiet and comfortable ride
  
• ✅ Excellent wet and light snow grip
  
• ✅ Maintains high traction through full tread life
  
• ✅ Fuel-efficient design lowers CO₂ footprint
  
• ✅ Durable for long-distance driving
  

Cons:

• ❌ Less suitable for off-road or rugged terrain
  
• ❌ Slightly soft cornering at higher speeds
  

Why We Like It

This tire brings a luxury-level experience to everyday driving. It’s perfect for SUV owners who want a dependable, silent performer for rainy commutes and long road trips alike.

3. Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus – Best for Highway Cruising & Long-Term Comfort

The Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus is designed with highway driving in mind—ideal for SUV owners who spend most of their time cruising on pavement. With a special focus on tread longevity and ride comfort, this tire delivers a smooth, stable feel with low road noise. It’s also a standout in dry and wet handling, making it a solid all-around option for those looking for quiet consistency across thousands of miles.

Key Features

• Advanced tread polymer for improved wear and performance
  
• Symmetric tread design enhances ride comfort and even wear
  
• Optimized casing and tread pattern for low road noise
  
• 80,000-mile limited treadwear warranty on H- and T-speed rated versions
  
• Silica compound improves traction in both wet and dry conditions
  

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• ✅ Extremely long tread life (up to 80,000 miles)
  
• ✅ Smooth, quiet ride on highways
  
• ✅ Strong grip on dry and wet roads
  
• ✅ Excellent stability for larger SUVs
  
• ✅ Great value for long-distance commuters
  

Cons:

• ❌ Not built for winter or off-road use
  
• ❌ Handling isn’t as sharp as performance-focused tires
  

Why We Like It

This is the tire you want for stress-free, long-haul highway driving. It offers one of the longest tread warranties in its class, making it a smart pick for anyone who racks up serious mileage.

4. Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady – Best All-Season Tire for Year-Round Versatility

If you’re the kind of driver who wants peace of mind no matter the season, the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady is built to handle unpredictable weather—rain, shine, or even snow. It’s one of the few 235/65R18 all-season tires with 3PMSF certification, meaning it’s approved for severe snow service. With Goodyear’s cutting-edge all-weather compound and adaptive tread design, this tire adjusts to changing road conditions while maintaining grip and comfort.

Key Features

• 3PMSF certified for severe snow performance
  
• Weather Reactive Technology with evolving tread grooves
  
• Soybean oil-based tread compound stays flexible in cold temps
  
• Asymmetrical tread pattern for year-round handling
  
• 60,000-mile limited treadwear warranty
  

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• ✅ Legit all-weather capability (great in rain, slush, and snow)
  
• ✅ Excellent wet and cold traction
  
• ✅ Smooth, predictable handling in all conditions
  
• ✅ Winter-ready without needing a dedicated snow tire
  
• ✅ Strong braking and cornering in both wet and dry
  

Cons:

• ❌ Slightly louder ride than pure touring tires
  
• ❌ Tread life isn’t as long as summer or highway-focused tires
  

Why We Like It

This tire is a lifesaver for drivers who live in areas with unpredictable weather. It’s one of the few true all-season performers that actually delivers when winter shows up.

5. Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 – Best for Balanced Performance & Everyday Versatility

The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is a well-rounded touring tire tailored for modern SUVs. Whether you’re commuting, running errands, or heading out on a weekend getaway, this tire delivers a smooth, quiet ride with consistent grip across seasons. Pirelli’s advanced tread design and compound focus on comfort, stability, and long tread life—making it ideal for drivers who want dependable performance without sacrificing refinement.

Key Features

• Full-depth 3D sipes improve year-round traction and wear
  
• Next-gen tread compound for optimized all-season grip
  
• Designed specifically for crossovers, SUVs, and light trucks
  
• Advanced pitch sequencing minimizes road noise
  
• Backed by a 70,000-mile limited treadwear warranty
  

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• ✅ Very quiet and composed ride
  
• ✅ Great balance of dry, wet, and light snow performance
  
• ✅ Maintains traction throughout tread life
  
• ✅ Long treadwear warranty (70k miles)
  
• ✅ Strong lateral grip for confident cornering
  

Cons:

• ❌ Not ideal for deep snow or rugged terrain
  
• ❌ Slightly stiffer feel over rough pavement
  

Why We Like It

The Scorpion AS Plus 3 hits that sweet spot between comfort, performance, and durability. It’s an excellent choice for SUV owners who want a confident, all-season touring tire with a premium feel.

6. Yokohama Geolandar CV G058 – Best for Urban Driving & Wet Traction

The Yokohama Geolandar CV G058 is built for city and suburban SUV drivers who need dependable all-season traction with a focus on comfort and fuel efficiency. Designed with Yokohama’s advanced silica compound and optimized tread pattern, it handles wet roads confidently while delivering a quiet, stable ride. It’s an ideal daily driver tire for those navigating changing conditions in urban and highway environments.

Key Features

• Adaptive shoulder blocks reduce tread wear and noise
  
• CV2 tread compound enhances grip in wet and cold conditions
  
• Four circumferential grooves for efficient water evacuation
  
• Rigid center rib for stable steering response
  
• 65,000-mile limited treadwear warranty
  

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• ✅ Excellent wet and hydroplaning resistance
  
• ✅ Very quiet and comfortable ride, especially at low speeds
  
• ✅ Strong fuel efficiency and low rolling resistance
  
• ✅ Good performance in cold and light snowy conditions
  
• ✅ Long-lasting tread design with even wear pattern
  

Cons:

• ❌ Not built for off-road or rugged use
  
• ❌ Light snow performance is decent but not winter-rated
  

Why We Like It

The Geolandar CV G058 is a perfect choice for city-focused SUV owners who value a smooth, efficient ride and strong wet-weather confidence. It offers comfort and safety without breaking the bank.

7. Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail – Best for Light Off-Roading & All-Weather Versatility

The Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail is the tire of choice for SUV drivers who crave weekend adventure without compromising weekday comfort. Built for CUVs and SUVs that split time between pavement and gravel, it offers solid traction on dirt, light mud, and even snow—while maintaining a surprisingly quiet ride on the highway. Plus, it’s 3PMSF certified, so it’s ready for winter without needing to swap tires.

Key Features

• Silica-enhanced tread compound for wet and snowy traction
  
• Durable 2-ply polyester construction for mild off-road resistance
  
• 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) certified for severe snow service
  
• Aggressive upper sidewall and open shoulder design improve grip off-road
  
• 65,000-mile limited treadwear warranty
  

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• ✅ Great on gravel, trails, and light off-road terrain
  
• ✅ Excellent winter traction with 3PMSF rating
  
• ✅ Comfortable and quiet for a rugged tire
  
• ✅ Long tread life compared to other A/T tires
  
• ✅ Versatile enough for daily driving and weekend exploring
  

Cons:

• ❌ Not built for deep mud or hardcore off-roading
  
• ❌ Slightly stiffer ride than a standard touring tire
  

Why We Like It

The Wildpeak A/T Trail strikes the perfect balance between adventure and everyday usability. It’s a go-anywhere tire that won’t punish you with road noise or poor fuel economy—ideal for adventurous SUV owners.

8. Cooper Endeavor Plus – Best Budget-Friendly Touring Tire for Daily Driving

The Cooper Endeavor Plus is a solid, affordable option for SUV owners looking for reliable everyday performance without breaking the bank. Built for city streets and highways, it offers stable handling, decent wet traction, and a comfortable ride—perfect for daily commuters, families, or anyone needing a dependable tire at a great value. Cooper’s trusted engineering ensures this tire delivers where it counts most: safety, tread life, and fuel efficiency.

Key Features

• Even Wear Arc™ Technology promotes uniform tread wear
  
• Water Evacuating Grooves for strong wet-road grip
  
• Solid center rib for consistent steering response
  
• Stabiledge™ Performance tech enhances cornering and stability
  
• Backed by a 65,000-mile limited treadwear warranty
  

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• ✅ Very affordable without sacrificing quality
  
• ✅ Smooth and quiet highway performance
  
• ✅ Reliable in wet and dry conditions
  
• ✅ Long tread life for a tire in this price range
  
• ✅ Easy, predictable handling
  

Cons:

• ❌ Not designed for snow, ice, or off-road use
  
• ❌ Less sporty or responsive than premium tires
  

Why We Like It

The Cooper Endeavor Plus is a no-nonsense tire that covers the basics really well. It’s a top pick for SUV drivers who want comfort, safety, and value from their daily driver tires.

9. Michelin Premier LTX – Best for Premium Ride Comfort & Wet Braking

The Michelin Premier LTX is a high-end touring tire built for SUV drivers who want top-tier comfort, quietness, and unbeatable wet performance. Thanks to Michelin’s EverGrip™ technology, this tire actually maintains excellent wet traction even as it wears down—something most tires can’t promise. It’s ideal for families, long-distance commuters, or anyone who demands a luxury driving experience with no compromises in safety or stability.

Key Features

• EverGrip™ Technology with expanding rain grooves for superior wet braking
  
• High silica content for grip in dry, wet, and cold conditions
  
• Comfort Control Technology™ reduces road noise and vibration
  
• Sunflower oil-enriched tread compound improves flexibility in cold temps
  
• Backed by a 60,000-mile limited treadwear warranty
  

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• ✅ Exceptional wet braking—even when worn
  
• ✅ Ultra-quiet, smooth, and refined ride
  
• ✅ Strong handling and cornering for a touring tire
  
• ✅ Maintains traction and comfort across seasons
  
• ✅ Trusted Michelin quality and reliability
  

Cons:

• ❌ Higher price point than most competitors
  
• ❌ Tread life is good, but not best-in-class for the price
  

Why We Like It

The Premier LTX is the definition of peace of mind. If you value a plush ride and next-level wet safety, it’s hard to beat. It’s the kind of tire that makes every drive feel like a premium experience.

Comparison Table: Best 235/65R18 SUV Tires (2025 Edition)

Expert Buying Tips for 235/65R18 SUV Tires

Choosing the right tire involves more than just brand loyalty. 

Consider Your Climate:

• Hot climates: Choose tires with heat-resistant compounds (Michelin Defender LTX).
  
• Cold regions or snow-prone areas: Look for 3PMSF-rated tires like the Falken Wildpeak or Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive.
  

Daily Driving Habits:

• Mostly city driving? Go with comfort-focused touring tires.
  
• Weekend adventures or camping? Pick all-terrain options for gravel and dirt performance.
  

Budget:

• While top-tier brands offer premium tech, mid-range tires like Cooper and Yokohama often deliver 90% of the performance at 70% of the price.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the best 235/65R18 tires for your SUV boils down to knowing your needs and choosing tires backed by reliable technology and warranties. This guide leverages expert research, manufacturer data, and real-world performance insights to help you find tires that keep your SUV safe, comfortable, and ready for any adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)