Since its introduction in 1995, the Toyota RAV4 has been one of the best-selling compact SUVs in North America. Currently, in its fifth generation, the RAV4 is popular among drivers who need more space than a typical sedan and want a vehicle that offers better fuel economy than a full-size SUV.
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RAV4 Tire Size Overview
The RAV4 has grown in nearly all dimensions since coming on to the scene in the mid-’90s. Today, the RAV4 is offered in everything from a powerful electric vehicle, to a compact SUV commuter.
- OEM Tire Size(s):
- Front/Rear: 215/70/16, 235/60/16
- Trim(s): 2WD, 4WD
- OEM Tire Size(s):
- Front/Rear: 215/70/16, 225/65/17, 235/55/18
- Trim(s): Base, EV, Limited, Sport
- OEM Tire Size(s):
- Front/Rear: 225/65/17, 235/55/18
- Trim(s): Adventure, LE, Limited, Platinum, SE, XLE
- OEM Tire Size(s):
- Front/Rear: 225/65/17, 225/60/18, 235/55/19
- Trim(s): Adventure, LE, Limited, Prime, XLE, XSE
Choosing New RAV4 Tires
We have all been there, and there will come a time when you need to replace the tires on your RAV4. With so many choices and different types, such as H-rated, all-season, and touring, it can be confusing and stressful, to say the least. However, there is no need to worry, and we will break it down in simple terms to help you choose the best tire for your needs.
What’s Your Weather Like?
It is important to consider the weather conditions where you live when choosing a set of tires. For example, if you live in an area with frequent snowfall, at the very least, we would recommend an all-season tire with an M+S (Mud+Snow) rating. Likewise, if you live in the Northwest, where frequent heavy rains are the norm, a tire with better traction on wet roads is preferred.
What Do You Use Your RAV4 For?
Like with weather conditions, how (and where) you drive are important considerations when purchasing tires for your RAV4. For most people, this is usually on paved surfaces, and drivers typically prioritize a combination of a smooth and quiet ride, all-season performance, and long tread life. If you frequently drive on dirt roads or in heavy snow, all-terrain (A/T) or snow tires may be better suited for your needs.
Comfort, Performance, Budget. Pick Two.
As with many decisions in life, there are trade-offs, and tires are no different. While A/T tires are great for off-road use, they are noisier on the highway. On the other hand, all-season tires have limited traction in the mud and snow. As such, tires are designed for specific applications, making it even more important to choose one that closely matches your driving habits and preferences.
Comparison of the Best Tires for RAV4
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The Best Tires for RAV4
Since personal preference, driving habits, and expectations are important considerations when purchasing a set of tires, there is no “one-size-fits-all” answer. Therefore, we have chosen the best RAV4 tires using the following criteria: overall, all-terrain, budget, all-season, and snow.
Best Overall
Continental CrossContact LX25
Ratings (out of 5)
Dry Performance: 4.7 / 5
Wet Performance: 4.7 / 5
Overall Comfort: 4.5 / 5
Treadwear: 4.7 / 5
Offroad Performance: N/A
Snow/Ice Performance: 4.4 / 5
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The Continental CrossContact LX25 makes no compromises and is arguably the best SUV/Crossover all-season/touring tire that you can buy. This is especially true when looking at key metrics such as wet/dry traction, low road noise, and long tread life. In fact, you will be hard-pressed to find anything better in the aforementioned categories. However, don’t take our word for it, as this has been backed up by expert tests and user reviews.
The only downside to the CrossContact LX25 is the price. Given this is a premium tire, a set of four will set you back close to $1,000 after adding installation costs and a road hazard warranty. However, if you can afford it, this is the best overall tire for the RAV4.
Other Specifications
UTQG Rating: 740 A B
Directional: No
TireRack Road Hazard Protection: Yes
Treadlife Warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles
Price Range: $161 to $205.99
Best All-Terrain Tire
Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S
Ratings (out of 5)
Dry Performance: 4.6 / 5
Wet Performance: 4.6 / 5
Overall Comfort: 4.5 / 5
Treadwear: 4.4 / 5
Offroad Performance: 4.5 / 5
Snow/Ice Performance: 4.3 / 5
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If you frequently venture off paved surfaces, there are several reasons why you may want to consider a set of all-terrain tires. For starters, they provide more grip than a standard touring or all-season tire and are more resistant to punctures and damage from rocks. However, they are noisier, and you may notice a drop in fuel economy, so we would not recommend an A/T tire if you only drive on the highway.
With that said, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S strikes a good balance between on and off-road performance. It is not the most aggressive A/T tire out there, and road manners are decent, albeit not to the extent of a touring or all-season tire. Another benefit is the severe service rating which means the AT3 4S can double as a snow tire. If you prefer to avoid the hassle (and cost) of swapping out your tires twice a year, this is something to keep in mind.
Other Specifications
UTQG Rating: 620 A B
Directional: No
TireRack Road Hazard Protection: Yes
Treadlife Warranty: Unlimited/65,000 miles
Price Range: $179.99
Best Budget Tire
Kumho Crugen HP71
Ratings (out of 5)
Dry Performance: 4.5 / 5
Wet Performance: 4.4 / 5
Overall Comfort: 4.5 / 5
Treadwear: 4.4 / 5
Offroad Performance: N/A
Snow/Ice Performance: 4 / 5
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Despite having a reputation as a budget brand, Kumho makes decent tires. While the Crugen HP71 is not a class leader in any particular category, it holds its own against some higher-priced rivals, most notably in wet and dry traction. Road noise is low, albeit not on the level of a premium tire from Michelin or Continental.
In sum, there is nothing wrong with the Crugen HP71, and we know that replacing tires can be a costly affair. Likewise, you will probably not notice much difference between brands on an older vehicle with high miles. If you are on a budget but want a decent set of tires, the Kumho Crugen HP71 is worth a look.
Other Specifications
UTQG Rating: 640 A A
Directional: No
TireRack Road Hazard Protection: Yes
Treadlife Warranty: 6 years/65,000 miles
Price Range: $141 to $183.05
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Best All-Season Tire
Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II
Ratings (out of 5)
Dry Performance: 4.7 / 5
Wet Performance: 4.7 / 5
Overall Comfort: 4.7 / 5
Treadwear: 4.6 / 5
Offroad Performance: N/A
Snow/Ice Performance: 4.4 / 5
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The Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II has made a name for itself and was designed for drivers who prioritize wet traction and a smooth and quiet ride. Likewise, as with many Pirelli tires, handling and steering response are excellent. Simply put, the Verde Scorpion All Season Plus II is a top all-around performer, and it gives our top contender, the Continental CrossContact LX25, a run for its money.
With that said, the Scorpion Verde is a premium tire, and the only complaints we have are the price and limited availability. In terms of RAV4 fitment, it is only offered in a 225/65/17 and 235-55-18.
Other Specifications
UTQG Rating: 740 A A
Directional: No
TireRack Road Hazard Protection: Yes
Treadlife Warranty: Unlimited/65,000 miles
Price Range: $156.10 to $183.05
Best Snow Tire
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2
Ratings (out of 5)
Dry Performance: 4.4 / 5
Wet Performance: 4.6 / 5
Overall Comfort: 4.4 / 5
Treadwear: 4.2 / 5
Offroad Performance: N/A
Snow/Ice Performance: 4.7 / 5
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Long considered the benchmark for snow tires, it should be no surprise that the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2 tops our list in this category. Chances are if you live in an area with frequent snowfall, you are probably aware of this and already have a set for your RAV-4.
If not, keep in mind (as with all snow tires) they are not the smoothest nor quietest riding tires for highway driving. However, what the Blizzak will do is provide the traction you need in deeper snow, slush, and ice over an all-season tire. While we would suggest staying at home in inclement weather, if you need to venture out in the snow, the best way to do it is on a set of Blizzaks.
Other Specifications
UTQG Rating: N/A
Directional: Yes
TireRack Road Hazard Protection: Yes
Treadlife Warranty: None
Price Range: $140.99 to $192.99
Conclusion
Hopefully, this guide will help you choose the right tires for your RAV4. However, (and most importantly) the best tire is the one that is best suited for your needs and driving habits.
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People Also Ask
Let’s answer a few more questions to set you on the right track.
Over the years, the following brands have been used as original equipment on the RAV4: Bridgestone, Michelin, Toyo, and Yokohama. However, it should be pointed out that owners are not required to use the same tires that came with their vehicle, and choosing a different brand will not void the factory warranty (if applicable).
Since multiple factors affect tire wear, such as maintenance (or lack thereof), treadwear rating, and driving habits, it is difficult to provide an exact number. However, a manufacturer’s treadlife warranty and user reviews can give a ballpark estimate of what you can reasonably expect under normal driving conditions.
As a general rule, tires should be replaced as a set of four. This is especially true for AWD vehicles since mixing tires with different tread depths can stress the AWD system, and any damage may not be covered under warranty.
For FWD vehicles, this is not an issue, and they can be replaced in pairs. However, as mentioned above, it is best to replace all four at the same time.
Unless you live in an area with frequent heavy snowfall, snow tires are not necessary, even more so if your RAV4 is equipped with AWD. However, snow tires will provide better traction than a comparable set of all-seasons in wintry conditions although they are not intended for year-round use.
Lastly, there is the additional expense of installing your snow tires in the winter and then reinstalling your all-seasons in the Spring and/or purchasing a second set of rims.
The 2021 RAV-4 Prime has a compact spare tire.