Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my research and content. Read my full affiliate disclaimer here.
If you plan to take your Subaru Crosstrek beyond paved roads, choosing the right all terrain tire changes how the vehicle handles dirt, gravel, and wet pavement. You want tires that balance off-road grip with predictable on-road manners so daily driving remains comfortable and safe. This guide covers the top shortlisted all terrain tires for the Crosstrek, selected for real-world performance and durability. We evaluated traction, tread life, and ride quality to identify options that suit mixed on- and off-road use. Read on for the criteria behind our picks and what to consider when fitting new tires.
Looking for other parts? See all Subaru Crosstrek parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Light Truck Tire, LT275/70R18 |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus — All-Terrain Tire (265/70R17) |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 LT305/55R20 Load Range F Tire |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Thunderer Ranger ATR All-Terrain Tire (265/70R16) |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Cooper Evolution M/T All-Terrain Tire LT265/70R17 |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail 225/60R17 All-Terrain Tire |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | SunF A033 All-Terrain ATV/UTV Tires, Set of 4 (26×9-12 front & 26×11-12 rear) |  |
1. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Light Truck Tire, LT275/70R18
| Tread Depth | 16 32nds |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 3640 Pounds |
| Load Range | E |
| Maximum Pressure | 80 Pound per Square Inch |
| Construction Type | Radial |
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 is designed as a tougher evolution of the KO2, offering reinforced sidewalls and an updated tread pattern for improved durability and on- and off-road grip. It is typically used by drivers who need a durable all-terrain tire for mixed use including gravel roads, snowy conditions, and occasional trail work. Notable features visible in the specification include a deep 16/32 tread depth, a high load capacity and E load range for heavy-duty applications, and radial construction with a high maximum pressure rating. In real-world terms that translates to confident traction in snow and on loose surfaces, resistance to sidewall damage from sticks and rocks, and a tire built to carry heavier loads without premature wear. Limitations for the Subaru Crosstrek context are size and fitment: this particular LT275/70R18 size is an oversized light-truck fitment that will require verification for proper clearance, and it is heavier and more aggressive than typical Crosstrek tires which can affect fuel economy and ride refinement.
Best for: Reliability-focused owners who prioritize toughness and long-lasting traction for mixed on/off-road use and who accept a more rugged tire setup to avoid downtime from damaged tires.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a quiet, fuel-efficient factory-like ride on a Subaru Crosstrek or those unwilling to confirm fitment and suspension clearance before upsizing.
- Reinforced sidewall technology for improved resistance to punctures and cuts
- Deep 16/32 tread depth designed for extended tread life and traction in snow and gravel
- High load capacity and E load range suitable for carrying heavier loads
- Tread pattern tuned for improved wet performance compared with prior generation
- LT275/70R18 size is large and may not fit without modifications on a Subaru Crosstrek
- Heavier, more aggressive construction can reduce fuel economy and ride comfort compared with passenger tires
Verdict A very tough, long-wearing all-terrain tire built for load-carrying and off-road durability, but the LT275/70R18 size is aggressive and may not suit a Crosstrek without careful fitment checks.
2. Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus — All-Terrain Tire (265/70R17)
| Size | 265/70R17 115T |
|---|---|
| Tread Depth | 12 32nds |
| Maximum Pressure | 44 PSI |
| Load Capacity | 2679 Pounds |
| UTQG | 640AB |
The Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus is an all-season, all-terrain tire built to deliver confident traction on mixed surfaces such as dirt, mud, snow, and wet roads. It uses an aggressive, blocky tread pattern and a robust carcass to shed mud and slush while maintaining grip, which makes it suitable for light off-road driving and daily highway use. On-road the tire is reported to be reasonably quiet and comfortable for its class thanks to a tread design that reduces noise and vibration. Notable practical benefits include strong wet and snow traction and a durable-looking tread compound that many owners find gives a sporty, lifted look. Important limitations to consider are occasional reports of variable manufacturing dates between tires and some long-term durability concerns from a minority of users who experienced early tread damage around 20k miles; sidewall ply thickness is modest so aggressive rock crawling could risk damage. For a Crosstrek owner seeking hassle-free, capable all-terrain performance, this tire balances comfort and off-road ability, but monitor manufacture dates and inspect tires regularly for uneven wear.
Best for: Practical, convenience-driven buyers who want a single tire that handles daily highway driving and weekend dirt roads without swapping seasonal tires.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who plan serious rock crawling, heavy off-road use, or who prioritize maximum tread life under high-mileage commercial use should consider sturdier, more specialized alternatives.
- Aggressive tread pattern that improves traction on mud, snow, and gravel
- All-season compound and tread spacing help evacuate water and slush for better wet-weather grip
- Reportedly quieter and smoother on road than many comparable all-terrain tires
- Widely available in conventional light truck/SUV sizes suitable for aftermarket fitment
- Some users reported early tread delamination or cupping under heavy use
- Sidewalls are not as thick as extreme off-road tires, limiting heavy rock protection
- Photos may show raised white lettering but many units are blackwalled
Verdict A convenient all-terrain choice for Crosstrek owners who want year-round grip and a quiet on-road ride, but check manufacture dates and avoid extreme off-road use.
3. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 LT305/55R20 Load Range F Tire
| Size | LT305/55R20/F 125S |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 3640 Pounds |
| Tread Depth | 16 32nds |
| Maximum Pressure | 80 Pound per Square Inch |
| Load Range | F |
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 is a rugged all-terrain tire built to handle mixed on- and off-road use. It combines an evolved tread pattern and a tougher compound for improved mud and snow grip, deeper tread life, and better resistance to cuts and sidewall damage from rocks and debris. Typical use is for drivers who split time between gravel, mud and highway miles and need a tire that keeps traction in loose surfaces without feeling overly harsh on paved roads. Notable features include CoreGard sidewall protection and mud-phobic bars plus a serrated shoulder design that helps evacuate material for bite in soft terrain. Practical benefits are strong off-road confidence, extended treadwear expectations, and engineered protection against punctures and sidewall snags. Important limitations are its large LT sizing and high load capacity, which make it physically large and heavy and less suitable for small crossover fitment, and some owners report balancing challenges that can require extra wheel weights to smooth vibration.
Best for: Performance-oriented buyers who prioritize maximum off-road capability and durability and accept a larger, heavier tire to gain superior grip and protection.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a tire for a small crossover focused on economy, low road noise, or maximum fuel efficiency should consider more compact, touring-oriented tires instead.
- Robust sidewall protection to resist cuts and punctures in rough terrain
- Aggressive tread design that improves mud and snow traction compared with prior KO2 design
- Designed for long tread life with a deeper tread depth for extended mileage
- Balanced on-road performance for an all-terrain tire, providing a reasonably quiet highway ride
- LT305/55R20 sizing is very large and may not fit many small crossovers without modification
- Heavier construction can make balancing more difficult and add unsprung weight
- Not optimized for fuel efficiency compared with highway-focused tires
Verdict Buy this if you need top-tier all-terrain toughness and traction; skip it if you need a small, light, fuel-efficient tire for a compact crossover.
4. Thunderer Ranger ATR All-Terrain Tire (265/70R16)
| Size | 265/70R16 |
|---|---|
| Tread depth | 13 32nds |
| Maximum pressure | 44 PSI |
| Construction type | Radial |
| UTQG | 500-A-B |
The Thunderer Ranger ATR is an all-terrain radial intended to deliver usable traction on pavement, wet roads and light off-road trails while keeping cost low. It uses a symmetrical tread with 3D sipes and rigid blocks to resist squirm on pavement and evacutate water, and the full nylon overwrap ply adds carcass strength for durability. The tire is pre-drilled for studs if you need extra winter grip, and the manufacturer advertises a long limited tread life for many sizes. In real-world use customers report quiet highway manners most of the time, solid wet braking, and competent light-duty off-road performance; some owners do note increased road noise and uneven wear in a few cases. For buyers prioritizing value this tire gives capable all-season grip and a higher mileage promise at a lower price, but it may not match premium branded tires for long-term uniform wear or extremely aggressive off-road use.
Best for: Budget-conscious drivers seeking an affordable all-terrain tire for mixed pavement and light trail use on a Subaru Crosstrek, prioritizing value over brand-name performance.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who want the quietest highway ride, the longest uniform wear, or extreme off-road capability should consider premium all-terrain or dedicated off-road tires instead.
- All-terrain tread design balances on-road comfort and light off-road traction
- Pre-drilled for studs to improve extreme winter traction where allowed
- Full nylon overwrap ply for added strength and durability
- Advertised long limited tread life for many sizes
- Some users report increased road noise compared with highway-focused tires
- A few reports of irregular inner wear suggesting fitment or alignment sensitivity
Verdict A cost-focused all-terrain tire that delivers good wet and light off-road performance for budget buyers but may lag premium options in noise and long-term wear.
5. Cooper Evolution M/T All-Terrain Tire LT265/70R17
| Size | LT265/70R17 121/118Q |
|---|---|
| Tread depth | 18.5 32nds |
| Maximum pressure | 80 PSI |
| Load capacity | 3195 Pounds |
| Construction type | Radial |
The Cooper Evolution M/T is a mud-terrain style all-terrain tire built to dig through mud, sand, and rough trails while resisting stone damage. In use it favors off-road traction thanks to Earth Diggers and Mud Slingers tread elements that scoop and eject mud, and stone barrier ridges that help protect against punctures. The tire is studdable for added winter grip and carries an E load range for heavier loads. On pavement you can expect firmer ride and increased road noise compared with highway tires, though many owners report tolerable noise and predictable handling for an aggressive tread. Longer-term reports show solid durability under mixed road and off-road use, but heavier vehicles may shorten expected tread life. Because the listed size is LT265/70R17 this tire is suitable only if that diameter and load rating match your Crosstrek’s wheel and weight allowances. Consider professional mounting and alignment when switching to this aggressive tread to avoid premature wear.
Best for: Risk-averse mainstream buyers who prioritize predictable, durable off-road capability and winter traction over quiet highway manners.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who primarily use their Crosstrek for daily highway commuting and want the quietest, most fuel-efficient tire should choose a more highway-oriented all-season tire.
- Aggressive mud-focused tread for strong off-road traction
- Studdable design for improved winter traction
- Stone barrier features to resist rock damage and eject debris
- E load range supports heavier loads than standard passenger tires
- Large, aggressive tread increases road noise and can reduce fuel economy
- Listed size LT265/70R17 may not fit most Subaru Crosstrek wheel openings without modifications
Verdict Buy this if you need studdable, rock-resistant mud-terrain traction on compatible wheel sizes; skip it if you want quiet, highway-focused performance.
6. Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail 225/60R17 All-Terrain Tire
| Size | 225/60R17 |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 1709 Pounds |
| Tread Depth | 11 32nds |
| Construction Type | Radial |
| UTQG | 680AA |
The Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail is an all-terrain replacement tire built for crossover SUVs like the Subaru Crosstrek, offering a mix of off-road grip and dependable on-road behavior. It uses a crossover-specific radial construction and a silica-based compound to resist uneven wear while the 3D Canyon Sipe Technology and deeper tread deliver improved traction in wet, dry, and winter conditions. In practice this tire feels stiffer at the sidewall for better stability off pavement, yet maintains a comfortable ride for daily driving. The rugged upper sidewall and two-ply polyester construction increase resistance to punctures and sidewall damage on trails. Riders should expect modestly higher road noise and a potential impact on fuel economy compared with touring all-seasons, and some users report faster-than-expected tread wear depending on driving and rotation habits. For Crosstrek owners who need reliable year-round traction with occasional off-road use, the Wildpeak delivers a strong balance of durability and capability.
Best for: Reliability-focused buyers who prioritize consistent year-round traction and durability for a Crosstrek used for daily driving plus occasional trails.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who want the quietest possible highway ride or maximum tread life above all else should consider a highway touring or dedicated winter tire instead.
- Crossover-specific construction improves handling and stability for CUVs and small SUVs.
- Deep tread with 3D Canyon Sipe Technology enhances traction in wet, dry, and winter conditions.
- Durable two-ply construction and reinforced upper sidewall resist punctures and off-road damage.
- Silica-based compound and optimized design help fend off uneven wear for longer tread life under normal use.
- Softer compound and aggressive tread can lead to faster tread wear for some driving styles.
- Slightly higher road noise and reduced fuel economy compared with highway-focused all-season tires.
Verdict A capable crossover-focused all-terrain tire that gives Subaru Crosstrek owners reliable year-round traction and tougher sidewall protection at the cost of some noise and possible accelerated wear.
7. SunF A033 All-Terrain ATV/UTV Tires, Set of 4 (26×9-12 front & 26×11-12 rear)
| Size | 26×9-12 & 26×11-12 |
|---|---|
| Tread Type | Non-Directional |
| Load Capacity | 739 Pounds |
| Construction Type | B |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
The SunF A033 is an aggressive all-terrain tire package built for mud, sand, rocks, and trail riding on off-road machines. These tires are offered in paired front and rear sizes with deep, non-directional tread and multi-ply construction to resist punctures and impacts during heavy off-trail use. In practical terms that means confident traction in soft and uneven terrain, strong shoulder bite for cornering, and a construction that tolerates rough treatment without frequent damage. They are bias-ply in some sizes, which improves toughness off-road but can feel harsher and wear faster if driven often on pavement. Installation can be stiff on cold rims, and these tires are labeled for off-road use only in many sizes which affects on-road legality in some regions. For a balanced buyer wanting durable, budget-friendly off-road grip, the A033 delivers good performance, but buyers who spend most miles on paved roads should expect faster wear and a firmer ride compared with more road-focused all-terrain options.
Best for: A balanced all-round buyer who prioritizes reliable off-road traction and durability for weekend trail use and light utility tasks while keeping overall cost and versatility in mind.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who will spend most miles on paved roads, require DOT-approved street tires, or want a quiet, long-wearing highway-oriented all-terrain tire should consider alternatives.
- Deep, non-directional tread pattern provides strong traction across mud, snow, sand, and rocky trails
- Multi-ply construction increases resistance to punctures and impacts during off-road use
- Shoulder traction design improves grip and control during turns and on loose surfaces
- Available paired front and rear sizes to match staggered wheel setups for balanced handling
- Some sizes use bias-ply construction rather than steel-belted design, which can limit highway durability and DOT approval
- Aggressive tread wears faster if used primarily on pavement and can create a firmer ride
- Tires are marked for off-road use only in certain sizes which may restrict legal on-road use in some areas
Verdict Strong, budget-friendly off-road traction and durability make the SunF A033 a solid pick for recreational off-road use, but expect firmer ride and quicker wear on pavement.
Choosing the Right Subaru Crosstrek All Terrain Tires: Key Factors to Consider
Traction On Mixed Surfaces
Traction across dirt, gravel, snow, and wet pavement determines how confidently you can drive off the beaten path and return to highways. A tread pattern with varied siping and biting edges improves grip on loose ground and in light snow while maintaining contact for wet braking.
Poorly balanced traction can lead to unpredictable braking distances or reduced control once conditions change. Prioritize tires that explicitly advertise mixed-surface performance and have compound features designed to maintain grip as temperatures vary.
Tread Life And Durability
Tread life affects how often you will replace tires, which is particularly important if you do a lot of miles on gravel or rough surfaces. Look for tread compounds and constructions that resist chunking and stone retention, and consider warranties or expected mileage ratings where available.
Durability also includes sidewall protection and reinforced shoulders to reduce the risk of cuts and punctures from sharp rocks or debris. Tires with tougher compounds may trade a bit of ride comfort for longer service life, so weigh mileage expectations against comfort needs.
Noise And Ride Comfort
All terrain tires tend to be louder than highway tires, but some designs mitigate wind and structure noise to preserve cabin comfort. Directional or staggered tread blocks can reduce harmonic noise, while flexible sidewalls and compound tuning influence ride harshness.
If you use the Crosstrek for daily commuting and road trips as well as trail driving, prioritize tires that balance off-road capability with low cabin noise and a compliant ride to avoid fatigue on long drives.
Tire Size And Load Rating
Selecting the correct tire size and load rating ensures safe handling, accurate speedometer readings, and proper load capacity for your vehicle. The Subaru Crosstrek has specific recommended sizes and load index values; matching those helps maintain suspension geometry and braking performance.
Undersized or under-rated tires can overheat under load or change handling characteristics. Verify the vehicle placard or owner manual, and choose tires that meet or exceed the factory load rating and rolling circumference where possible.
Wet-Braking And Hydroplaning Resistance
Tire ability to evacuate water and maintain contact during braking is essential for safety on wet roads. Tread grooves, lateral channels, and siping patterns all contribute to moving water away from the contact patch to reduce hydroplaning risk.
Consider tires that explicitly list wet-performance features and test well in wet braking scenarios. Good wet traction often correlates with shorter stopping distances and more confidence in changeable weather.
Off-Road Handling And Sidewall Strength
Off-road handling includes stability on ruts, responsiveness in loose terrain, and durability against side impacts. Robust sidewalls with protective ribs or rubberized shoulders can prevent abrasions and offer better support when airing down for traction.
While heavy-duty sidewalls improve resistance to damage, they may slightly reduce ride cushioning. Balance the need for protection with the desire for comfort depending on how often you encounter rough trails.
FAQ
How do I know which all terrain size fits my Subaru Crosstrek?
Check the vehicle placard or owner manual to find the factory-approved tire sizes and load ratings. Choose tires with matching overall diameter and a load index that meets or exceeds the manufacturer recommendation to preserve handling and avoid speedometer error.
Can I use all terrain tires year-round on a Crosstrek?
Many all terrain tires are suitable for year-round use because they blend on-road manners with moderate off-road capability. Performance in severe winter conditions depends on the specific tread and compound, so look for tires with cold-weather ratings or the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol if you expect heavy snow.
Will all terrain tires affect fuel economy or ride quality?
All terrain tires generally produce slightly higher rolling resistance and more road noise than highway-oriented tires, which can modestly impact fuel economy and cabin quietness. The extent varies by tread design and compound, so pick a model that balances efficiency with the traction you need.
How important is the tire load rating for a Crosstrek?
Load rating is important because it indicates the maximum safe weight each tire can carry. Using tires with a load rating below the factory specification can risk overheating or handling problems when carrying passengers or gear. Always match or exceed the recommended load index.
Should I prioritize tread life or off-road grip?
That depends on how you use the vehicle. If you cover many miles on mixed surfaces, longer tread life and a durable compound may be more economical. If you frequently tackle loose, technical trails, prioritize grip and sidewall protection even if it means a shorter tread lifespan.
How We Chose the Best Subaru Crosstrek All Terrain Tires
We focused on selection filters that matter for Subaru Crosstrek owners who need capable all terrain tires without sacrificing everyday drivability. Our evaluation prioritized traction on loose and wet surfaces, tread compound durability, and noise and comfort during highway driving. We also considered tire size fitment for common Crosstrek wheel diameters, load rating compatibility with factory specifications, and ease of mounting and balancing. Additional attention went to expected tread life and resistance to chip and cut damage for gravel use. We excluded tires clearly intended only for heavy trucks or extreme mud-terrain use that would compromise highway handling and fuel economy on a lightweight crossover. The final shortlist represents tires that offer balanced off-road ability, predictable wet performance, acceptable road noise, and appropriate size and load characteristics for the Subaru Crosstrek.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
Choosing the right all terrain tire for a Subaru Crosstrek requires balancing off-road grip, tread life, and everyday comfort. Prioritize the factors that align with how often you drive off pavement versus on highways, and make sure sizes and load ratings match factory guidance. Expect tradeoffs between durability, noise, and wet performance. By focusing on traction for mixed surfaces, proper load capacity, and reasonable tread longevity, you can find an option that improves capability without compromising daily driving.
Explore More:
- Check out all Subaru Crosstrek parts & accessories
- Explore Wheels & Tires
- Browse all Auto Parts
