When winter hits, your SUV’s performance depends on more than just engine power—it’s all about the tires. Whether you’re navigating icy streets, deep snow, or slushy roads, choosing the right winter tire for your SUV is crucial to ensure safety, comfort, and control. In 2025, there are some standout options to consider, from high-performance studless tires to rugged all-terrain models that can handle extreme winter conditions.
In this guide, I’ve rounded up the 7 best winter tires for SUV drivers, each offering a unique balance of traction, durability, and comfort. Whether you’re facing heavy snowstorms, freezing rain, or the occasional winter road trip, these tires are built to keep you safe and in control throughout the cold months. Ready to find the perfect winter tires for your SUV? Let’s dive into the details of each tire and help you make an informed decision.
Why Winter Tires Matter for SUVs
SUVs are big, powerful, and often heavy, which makes choosing the right winter tires a must. Unlike all-season tires, winter tires are built with special rubber that stays soft in freezing temps (below 7°C or 45°F) and tread patterns that bite into snow and ice. They’re not just for show—they can cut braking distances, improve handling, and even prevent accidents. In fact, studies show that winter tires can improve stopping ability by up to 30% on icy roads compared to all-season tires.
For SUVs, you also need tires that can handle extra weight, especially if you’re towing or carrying gear. All the tires on this list carry the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, meaning they’re certified for severe snow performance. I’ve focused on tires that balance grip, comfort, and durability, so you’re not stuck with a noisy ride or tires that wear out too fast. Ready to find the perfect set? Here’s my top 7.
How to Choose the Right Winter Tire for Your SUV
Picking the perfect winter tire depends on your driving needs and where you live. This quick overview will clear things up:
- Climate: If you face heavy snow or ice (think Minnesota or Quebec), go for the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 SUV or Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2. For milder winters (like the Pacific Northwest), the Falken Espia EPZ II SUV or Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV will do the job.
- SUV Size: Larger SUVs (e.g., Ford Explorer, Chevy Tahoe) need tires like the Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV or Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 that handle heavy loads. Smaller crossovers (e.g., Subaru Forester) can use the Continental ContiCrossContact Winter or Falken Espia EPZ II SUV.
- Budget: If you’re watching your wallet, the Falken Espia EPZ II SUV or Toyo Observe GSi-6 offer great value without sacrificing safety.
- Comfort: Hate road noise? The Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV or Continental ContiCrossContact Winter are your best bets for a quiet ride.
Always check your SUV’s owner’s manual or tire placard (on the driver’s door jamb) for the right tire size and load rating. And don’t mix and match—use four identical winter tires for balanced handling.
7 Best Winter Tires for SUV in 2025
1. Dunlop Winter Sport 5 SUV
Category: Performance Winter Tire
The Dunlop Winter Sport 5 SUV is designed for drivers who want confident, high-performance handling even in tough winter conditions. Built specifically for SUVs and crossovers, this tire blends sporty road feel with serious snow and ice traction. Whether you’re cruising down a slushy highway or navigating frozen city streets, it gives you grip without sacrificing comfort or control.
What it’s best for:
Drivers who want strong winter traction without giving up responsive handling on cold, dry roads.
Key Performance Highlights:
- Aggressive tread pattern bites into snow and helps reduce hydroplaning.
- Extra-wide grooves help channel slush and water away quickly.
- High-silica compound stays flexible in freezing temps for better grip.
- Directional tread design improves cornering and braking on icy or snowy roads.
Pros and Cons
- Confident cornering and braking in winter weather
- Comfortable and quiet for a winter tire
- Strong grip on both snow and wet pavement
- Slightly pricier than basic winter tire options
- May not be the best fit for deep off-road use
Ideal Use Cases:
Best for urban and highway driving in cold climates with moderate to heavy snowfall. Great for drivers who want winter safety without giving up driving fun.
2. Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta 10 SUV
Category: Premium Studded Winter Tire
The Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 SUV is built for serious winter warriors. It’s a high-end, studded winter tire designed to take on icy roads, deep snow, and extreme cold with total confidence. Made in Finland (where they know a thing or two about winter), this tire combines cutting-edge materials with clever design features to deliver top-tier performance in the harshest conditions.
What it’s best for:
Drivers who live in areas with extreme winter weather, including ice, snowstorms, and sub-zero temps.
Key Performance Highlights:
- Dual-stud technology improves grip on both ice and snow-covered roads.
- Aramid-reinforced sidewalls add extra toughness against potholes and rough winter terrain.
- Eco-friendly canola oil–enhanced rubber keeps the tire flexible in the cold while boosting durability.
- Low rolling resistance for a quieter ride and better fuel efficiency—even with studs.
Pros and Cons
- Outstanding ice grip thanks to stud technology
- Reliable braking and acceleration in deep snow
- Built tough for large SUVs
- Studs can be noisy on dry pavement
- Not legal in all regions—check your local laws
Ideal Use Cases:
Perfect for rural, mountainous, or northern regions where ice and packed snow are a daily challenge. Ideal for drivers who demand maximum safety in the worst winter conditions.
3. Continental ContiCrossContact Winter
Category: Premium Touring Winter Tire
The Continental ContiCrossContact Winter is a solid, well-balanced winter tire made specifically for SUVs and crossovers. It’s all about providing stable, predictable handling in cold conditions—whether you’re navigating wet roads, slushy streets, or fresh snow. If you’re looking for dependable winter traction without going overboard, this tire fits right in.
What it’s best for:
Everyday SUV drivers who want a safe, quiet, and comfortable winter driving experience in a mix of snow, wet, and cold dry conditions.
Key Performance Highlights:
- Advanced tread design with wide grooves to move slush and water away quickly.
- Special cold-weather rubber compound maintains flexibility in freezing temperatures.
- Optimized siping enhances grip and braking on snow and ice.
- Excellent steering response for a winter touring tire.
Pros and Cons
- Smooth, quiet ride for a winter tire
- Confident braking and cornering in light-to-moderate snow
- Reliable on wet and cold dry roads
- Not as aggressive as studded or deep-snow tires
- May struggle in extreme off-road snow conditions
Ideal Use Cases:
Best for urban commuting and highway driving in mild to moderately snowy climates. Great for drivers who want winter safety but still prioritize comfort and fuel economy.
4. Pirelli Scorpion Winter 2
Category: High-Performance Winter Tire
The Pirelli Scorpion Winter 2 is a premium winter tire engineered for high-end SUVs and crossovers. It’s all about combining winter confidence with smooth, refined driving. With advanced materials and an updated tread design, this tire gives you strong snow and ice traction without compromising ride quality or fuel efficiency.
What it’s best for:
Drivers who want balanced winter performance with a focus on comfort, quietness, and fuel economy—especially in light to moderate snow.
Key Performance Highlights:
- Adaptive tread compound stays flexible in cold for better grip and control.
- Directional tread pattern improves traction when accelerating or braking on snow.
- 3D siping adds extra bite on icy roads while maintaining tread stability.
- Low rolling resistance for improved gas mileage.
Pros and Cons
- Very quiet and smooth for a winter tire
- Good snow and wet road performance
- Designed with EVs and hybrids in mind, too
- Not ideal for deep snow or rugged terrain
- On the pricier side
Ideal Use Cases:
Great for city and highway driving in moderate winter climates where roads are often plowed but still cold and slick. Ideal for drivers who prioritize a refined ride with dependable winter traction.
5. Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2
Category: Studless Ice & Snow Winter Tire
The Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 is a fan-favorite when it comes to SUV winter tires—and for good reason. It’s built to take on ice, packed snow, and everything in between. With a specialized tread compound and a design that maximizes contact with the road, the DM-V2 helps you stay in control when conditions get tricky.
What it’s best for:
Drivers who want strong winter traction without the noise or hassle of studs.
Key Performance Highlights:
- Multicell compound absorbs water from icy surfaces to improve grip.
- Aggressive block edges help dig into snow and slush.
- Optimized contact patch spreads pressure evenly for better stability and braking.
- Great stopping power on icy and snowy roads.
Pros and Cons
- Excellent ice and snow performance without studs
- Comfortable and quiet for a deep winter tire
- Strong track record of reliability
- Tread may wear a bit faster in warmer conditions
- Not designed for off-road or rugged terrain
Ideal Use Cases:
Perfect for suburban and highway driving in regions with heavy snow and ice. Great for drivers who want top-notch winter grip with a quieter, more refined driving experience.
6. Falken Espia EPZ II SUV
Category: Value-Focused Winter Tire
The Falken Espia EPZ II SUV is a solid choice for drivers who want dependable winter performance without breaking the bank. Designed specifically for SUVs and crossovers, this tire delivers a balanced mix of snow traction, wet grip, and ride comfort—making it a great all-around winter companion for everyday driving.
What it’s best for:
Budget-conscious drivers who need reliable winter traction for daily commutes and casual weekend trips.
Key Performance Highlights:
- 3D canyon sipes enhance traction and braking on snowy and icy roads.
- Wide circumferential grooves help clear slush and water to reduce hydroplaning.
- Flexible winter compound stays grippy in low temps without feeling stiff.
- Optimized tread pattern promotes even wear and long tread life.
Pros and Cons
- Very affordable for a winter tire
- Good snow and ice performance for the price
- Quiet and comfortable on dry roads
- Doesn’t perform quite as well as premium models in extreme conditions
- Tread life can vary with aggressive driving
Ideal Use Cases:
Best for city and light highway driving in moderate winter conditions. Ideal if you need winter tires that get the job done without premium pricing.
7. Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV
Category: Premium Studless Winter Tire
The Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV is all about long-lasting winter confidence. Engineered specifically for larger vehicles like SUVs and crossovers, it offers excellent snow and ice grip, a quiet ride, and impressive durability. With Michelin’s reputation for quality and innovation, this tire is built to keep you safe—and comfortable—through multiple winters.
What it’s best for:
Drivers who want consistent, long-term winter performance with a focus on safety, quietness, and fuel efficiency.
Key Performance Highlights:
- FleX-Ice 2.0 compound stays flexible in extreme cold while providing dry road stability.
- V-shaped tread pattern improves acceleration, braking, and handling in snow and slush.
- Michelin EverGrip Technology helps maintain performance as the tire wears.
- Low rolling resistance helps improve fuel economy, even in cold temps.
Pros and Cons
- Excellent snow and ice traction
- Long tread life for a winter tire
- Smooth and quiet ride
- Premium price point
- Not designed for deep off-road use
Ideal Use Cases:
Best for highway and city driving in cold climates with frequent snow and icy roads. Ideal for families or commuters who want peace of mind all winter long without the harsh ride of studded tires.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Winter Tires
To keep your tires performing like champs and lasting longer, follow these tips:
- Install Early: Swap to winter tires when temps drop below 7°C (45°F). In Canada, 79% of winter tire users say they’ve avoided crashes thanks to early installation.
- Store Properly: Keep off-season tires in a cool, dry place to prevent rubber degradation. Store them vertically or stacked in a cool, dark space to protect their integrity.
- Check Tread Depth: Winter tires need at least 6/32 inches of tread for optimal snow traction. Replace them if they’re below 4/32 inches to ensure you’re still getting the grip you need.
- Rotate Regularly: Rotate tires every 5,000 miles to ensure even wear, especially on AWD SUVs, where tire wear can be more uneven.
- Use Dedicated Wheels: Mounting winter tires on separate wheels saves time and money on seasonal swaps and helps preserve the life of both your winter tires and your all-season ones.
Conclusion
Choosing the right winter tires for your SUV is essential for staying safe and confident on the road during the colder months. With the options listed here, you’re sure to find a tire that meets your driving needs, whether you’re tackling icy highways, deep snow, or just want a quieter, more comfortable ride. Remember, winter tires aren’t just about performance—they can significantly improve your safety by reducing stopping distances, enhancing traction, and boosting stability in slippery conditions.
Before making your final choice, consider your climate, driving habits, and budget to find the best fit for your SUV. Whether you opt for a premium choice like the Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV or a value-packed option like the Falken Espia EPZ II SUV, investing in a quality winter tire will give you peace of mind all season long.
Drive safe, and don’t let winter weather catch you off guard!
FAQs about Best SUV tires for winter
The best winter tires for SUV in 2025 include the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2, Nokian Hakkapeliitta 10 SUV, and Continental ContiCrossContact Winter. These tires are known for excellent grip on snow and ice, strong durability, and quiet rides.
A good winter tire for an SUV offers deep tread patterns, soft rubber for cold weather, and strong sidewall support. These features help you get better traction, safer braking, and a smoother ride in snow and slush.
It’s not recommended. Winter tires are made with soft rubber that wears out faster in warm weather. Using them year-round can reduce tire life and increase stopping distance on dry roads.
Not exactly. You need to choose winter tires that match your SUV’s tire size, load rating, and driving style. Always check your owner’s manual or ask a tire expert for the right fit.
With proper use, winter tires for SUVs can last 3 to 5 winter seasons. Rotate them regularly and store them properly during summer to extend their life.
Used tires may save money, but they can be risky. Check for tread depth, cracks, and manufacture date. If they’re over 6 years old or look damaged, it’s safer to buy new ones.
It’s best to install winter tires when the temperature drops below 45°F (7°C). That’s when all-season tires start losing grip, and winter tires perform best.
