As a Subaru Forester owner navigating the urban jungle, your choice of tires can make a world of difference in your driving experience. The right set of tires ensures your safety and enhances your vehicle’s performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when selecting tires for city driving, from ride comfort and noise levels to treadwear and wet road handling. We’ll also dive into the 11 best tires for Subaru Forester city driving, examining their unique features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re looking for a premium option that excels in wet conditions or a budget-friendly tire that doesn’t compromise on performance, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also share tips on how to extend the life of your tires and recognize when it’s time for a replacement.
So buckle up and get ready to discover the perfect set of tires to keep your Subaru Forester rolling smoothly through city streets, no matter what urban challenges come your way.
What to Consider When Choosing Best Tires for City Driving
When driving in urban areas, there are several key factors to consider when selecting the right tires for your Subaru Forester. Ride comfort is crucial, as you’ll be dealing with frequent stops, starts, and bumps on city streets. Look for tires designed to provide a smooth, comfortable ride by effectively absorbing road imperfections.
Noise levels are another important consideration. City driving often involves more time spent at lower speeds, where tire noise can become more noticeable inside the cabin. Tires with advanced tread designs and noise-reducing technologies can significantly improve the overall driving experience by minimizing road noise.
Treadwear is also a critical factor, as city driving can be harsh on tires due to frequent braking, turning, and exposure to road debris. Tires with longer treadwear ratings can provide better value and require less frequent replacement, saving you money in the long run.
Fuel efficiency should not be overlooked, as it can have a significant impact on your overall operating costs. Tires with low rolling resistance can help improve your Subaru Forester’s fuel economy, reducing your carbon footprint and saving you money at the gas pump.
Finally, handling on wet roads is crucial for safety in urban environments, where rain and standing water are common occurrences. Tires with advanced tread patterns and specialized rubber compounds can provide superior grip and shorter braking distances on wet surfaces, giving you greater confidence and control behind the wheel.
11 Best Tires for Subaru Forester City Driving
Michelin Premier A/S
- Flagship all-season touring tire from Michelin
- Designed for sedans and minivans
- Offers year-round traction and handling
- Features advanced silica-enhanced tread compound
- Directional tread pattern with 3D Active Sipes
- Excellent dry road performance and cornering
- Superior wet traction and hydroplaning resistance
- Decent light snow and ice performance for an all-season tire
- Comfortable ride quality
Price Check
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The Michelin Premier A/S is an exceptional all-season tire designed for drivers who demand superior performance and handling on wet roads. Engineered with Michelin’s latest EverGrip technology, this tire offers excellent traction and braking capabilities, even as the tread wears down.
Highlights:
- Michelin’s proprietary EverGrip technology with expanding rain grooves
- Advanced silica-based compound for enhanced wet traction
- Optimized tread design for improved hydroplaning resistance
- Reinforced internal structure for better stability and responsiveness
Specifications:
- Treadwear: 600 A/A
- Traction: A
- Temperature: A
- UTQG: 600 A/A
- Speed Rating: H (130 mph)
- Available Sizes: 15-20 inch diameter
Pros:
- Outstanding wet weather performance
- Impressive treadlife and durability
- Smooth and comfortable ride quality
- Responsive handling and cornering grip
- Excellent hydroplaning resistance
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point compared to some competitors
- Tread may wear faster in severe winter conditions
- Dry traction could be better for performance-oriented driving
With its advanced technologies and well-rounded performance, the Michelin Premier A/S is an excellent choice for Subaru Forester owners seeking a reliable and capable tire for city driving, particularly in wet conditions.
Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus
- Engineered to make your car more fuel-efficient
- All-Season Performance
- Confident Handling and a Comfortable Ride
- Fuel Saver Sidewall & Tread Compound Assists With Rolling Efficiency For Fuel Economy.
- Innovative Tread Pattern Delivers A Quiet, Comfortable Ride.
- Circumferential Grooves Help Channel Water Out Of The Footprint Area To Resist Hydroplaning.
- Confident handling and a comfortable ride
Price Check
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The Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus is an excellent choice for the Subaru Forester when it comes to city driving. This tire is designed to provide a comfortable and quiet ride while also delivering impressive fuel efficiency and long tread life.
Highlights:
- Fuel-efficient tread compound
- Symmetric tread pattern for even wear
- Designed for enhanced wet traction and braking
- Comfortable and quiet ride
Specifications:
- Treadwear: 600 A/A
- Traction: A
- Temperature: A
- UTQG (Treadwear): 700
- Speed Rating: H (130 mph)
Pros:
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- Long-lasting tread life
- Impressive wet traction and braking
- Smooth and quiet ride quality
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Slightly less responsive handling compared to performance tires
- Tread may wear faster in severe weather conditions
Overall, the Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus is a well-rounded tire that offers a great balance of fuel efficiency, tread life, and wet performance, making it an ideal choice for city driving with your Subaru Forester.
Continental TrueContact Tour
- Excellent performance in dry and wet conditions
- Improved fuel efficiency with EcoPlus Technology
- Comfort Ride Technology for a smooth, quiet ride
- Long-lasting tread life (up to 80,000-mile warranty)
- Reliable stopping and cornering performance
- Optimized tread pattern for hydroplaning resistance
- An ideal choice for drivers who prioritize comfort, durability, and year-round performance
Price Check
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Highlights:
- Designed for coupes, sedans, and crossovers like the Subaru Forester
- Excellent traction and handling in wet conditions
- Quiet and comfortable ride
- Long treadwear warranty of 80,000 miles
Specifications:
- Treadwear Rating: 700 A
- Traction Rating: A
- Temperature Rating: B
- UTQG Rating: 700 A B
- Speed Rating: H (130 mph)
Pros:
- Superior hydroplaning resistance for enhanced wet traction
- Comfortable ride with low noise levels
- Responsive handling and cornering grip
- Long-lasting tread life backed by an 80,000-mile warranty
Cons:
- Average performance in light snow and ice
- Slightly higher price point compared to some competitors
- Tread compound may harden prematurely in extremely cold climates
The Continental TrueContact Tour is an excellent choice for Subaru Forester owners seeking a tire that excels in wet conditions while providing a comfortable and quiet ride. Its advanced tread design and high-silica compound deliver impressive hydroplaning resistance and traction on slick roads. Although it may not be the top performer in winter weather, the TrueContact Tour’s responsive handling, long treadwear warranty, and overall versatility make it a standout option for city driving.
Yokohama AVID Ascend LX
- Durable all-season tire made for various vehicles, offering high mileage and a comfortable drive
- Features an advanced tread design for grip in dry, wet, and light snow conditions, while reducing road noise
- Built with a strong internal structure for enhanced stability and tread life
- Silica-infused compound boosts wet traction and contributes to longevity
- Precision handling and responsive steering ensure a reliable performance on dry roads
- Designed with a focus on a quiet ride and improved fuel efficiency due to low rolling resistance
Price Check
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The Yokohama Avid Ascend LX is a premium all-season touring tire designed for coupes, sedans, and crossovers like the Subaru Forester. It offers a blend of comfort, handling, and treadwear for city driving conditions.
Highlights
- Symmetric tread pattern for even wear and noise reduction
- Tapered tread blocks for improved cornering and responsiveness
- Circumferential grooves for enhanced water evacuation
- Silica-enhanced tread compound for better traction on wet roads
Specifications
- Treadwear Warranty: 85,000 miles
- UTQG Treadwear: 700 A A
- Sizes: 15-20 inch diameter
Pros
- Excellent dry and wet traction
- Quiet and comfortable ride
- Long treadlife for an all-season tire
- Responsive handling and cornering grip
Cons
- Tread may wear faster in severe conditions
- Not the best choice for winter driving on ice/snow
- Slightly higher price point than some competitors
Goodyear Assurance ComfortDrive
- All-season touring tire for passenger vehicles
- Designed for smooth, comfortable ride and reduced noise
- Features noise-canceling technology and comfort layers
- Performs well in dry, wet, and light snow conditions
- Advanced silica-based tread compound for enhanced grip
- ComfortEdge Technology for improved ride comfort
- Excellent hydroplaning resistance and wet traction
- Decent performance in light snow and ice
- Long-lasting treadwear and durability
Price Check
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The Goodyear Assurance ComfortDrive is a premium touring all-season tire designed for comfortable and refined driving on sedans, crossovers, and minivans. It’s an excellent choice for the Subaru Forester, offering a smooth and quiet ride on city streets.
Highlights:
- Comfort Oriented Design
- Dry, Wet, and Light Snow Traction
- Long Treadwear
- Quiet Ride
Specifications:
- Treadwear Warranty: 65,000 miles
- UTQG Treadwear: 700 A A
- Rim Protectors
- Asymmetric Tread Pattern
- Dual Layer Tread Compound
Pros:
- Exceptional ride comfort and noise reduction
- Excellent dry and wet traction
- Long treadlife for an all-season touring tire
- Responsive handling and steering feel
Cons:
- Tread compound may struggle in heavy snow/ice
- Not the most affordable option
- Treadlife could be better for the price point
The Assurance ComfortDrive uses an asymmetric tread pattern with a cushion layer of rubber beneath the tread to absorb road vibrations. This results in a plush, luxurious ride ideal for city driving. The tire also features Goodyear’s dual layer tread compound for enhanced grip and long treadwear.
Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season
- Premium touring tire for coupes, sedans, and crossovers
- Designed for year-round performance and comfort
- Features an advanced asymmetric tread design
- Excellent dry road performance with precise handling
- Impressive wet traction and hydroplaning resistance
- Reliable winter and snow performance for an all-season tire
- Exceptionally smooth and quiet ride
- Advanced noise-canceling technology
- Offers a balance of performance, comfort, and all-season versatility
- May not be ideal for extreme winter conditions
Price Check
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The Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus is an excellent choice for the Subaru Forester, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and all-season capability. Here are the highlights:
Highlights:
- Designed for coupes, sedans, and crossovers like the Forester
- Silica-enhanced tread compound for improved traction and wear
- Optimized tread pattern for enhanced wet and winter grip
- Noise-canceling technology for a quieter ride
Specifications:
- Treadwear: 500 A/A
- Traction: A
- Temperature: A
- UTQG (Treadwear): 700
- 60,000-mile treadwear warranty
Pros:
- Exceptional dry and wet traction
- Impressive snow and ice performance for an all-season tire
- Comfortable and quiet ride quality
- Responsive handling and cornering grip
- Long treadlife and backed by a 60,000-mile warranty
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point than some competitors
- Tread may wear faster in severe winter conditions
Overall, the Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus is a high-performance all-season tire that delivers excellent traction, handling, and ride comfort for the Subaru Forester in city driving conditions.
Hankook Kinergy PT
- All-season touring tire for passenger cars, minivans, and crossovers
- Asymmetric tread pattern with silica-enhanced compound
- Excellent dry road performance with responsive handling
- Impressive wet traction and hydroplaning resistance
- Adequate performance in light snow and ice conditions
- Smooth and quiet ride with good comfort levels
- Durable construction with even wear characteristics
- Suitable for daily driving and highway cruising
- May not excel in severe winter conditions
Price Check
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The Hankook Kinergy PT is an all-season touring tire designed for drivers of sedans, minivans, and crossovers who want a comfortable and quiet ride. Here are the highlights, specifications, pros, and cons of this tire:
Highlights:
- Symmetric tread pattern for even wear and a smooth ride
- Silica-enriched tread compound for enhanced traction on wet roads
- Optimized tread design reduces road noise for a quieter driving experience
Specifications:
- Treadwear Warranty: 90,000 miles
- Temperature Rating: A
- Traction Rating: A
- Available Sizes: 15-18 inch diameter
Pros:
- Excellent wet and dry traction
- Comfortable and quiet ride quality
- Affordable pricing compared to premium tire brands
- Long treadwear warranty for the price point
Cons:
- Tread life may be shorter than some premium competitors
- Not the best choice for severe winter conditions or off-road use
- Handling and responsiveness could be improved for sportier driving
Overall, the Hankook Kinergy PT is a well-rounded and budget-friendly option for Subaru Forester drivers who prioritize a comfortable ride and good all-season traction on city streets.
Kumho Crugen Premium KL33
- All-season tire designed for fuel efficiency and long tread life
- Offers reliable wet and dry traction
- Provides a quiet and comfortable ride
- Advanced tread design for even wear and longevity
- Excellent fuel economy and lower emissions
- Utilizes MaxTouch Construction for improved grip and handling
- Incorporates eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes
- Balanced performance in wet, dry, and light snow conditions
Price Check
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The Kumho Crugen Premium is a highly capable all-season tire designed for sedans, crossovers, and small SUVs like the Subaru Forester. It offers a well-balanced combination of dry, wet, and winter traction while delivering a smooth and comfortable ride.
Highlights:
- Symmetric tread design with high-density siping for enhanced grip
- Dual silica tread compound for improved wet traction and braking
- Optimized footprint shape for even wear and extended treadlife
- M+S rated for moderate snow traction
Specifications:
- Treadwear: 600 A/A
- Traction: A
- Temperature: A
- UTQG: 600 A/B
- Speed Rating: H (130 mph)
Pros:
- Excellent dry and wet road handling
- Decent winter traction for an all-season tire
- Quiet and comfortable ride quality
- Affordable pricing compared to premium brand alternatives
Cons:
- Treadlife could be better for the price point
- Not the best choice for severe winter conditions
- Limited sizes available for larger vehicles
Overall, the Kumho Crugen Premium is a great value-oriented all-season touring tire that delivers reliable all-weather performance for daily city driving in the Subaru Forester. Its balance of grip, comfort, and affordability make it a compelling option.
Falken ZIEX CT60 A/S
- All-season ultra high-performance tire for sports cars, performance coupes, sport sedans, and crossovers
- Asymmetric tread pattern for grip and handling in dry, wet, and light snow conditions
- Provides excellent dry and wet performance, with decent winter and snow performance
- Offers a quiet, comfortable ride with minimal vibrations and road noise
- Excellent value, with competitive pricing and good performance
Price Check
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The Falken Ziex CT60 A/S is an all-season touring tire designed for drivers who want a balance of comfort, performance, and year-round traction. Here are some key highlights, specifications, pros, and cons of this tire:
Highlights:
- Silica-enriched tread compound for enhanced wet traction and wear resistance
- Optimized tread design with high-density siping for improved snow and slush performance
- Wide circumferential grooves for efficient water evacuation and hydroplaning resistance
- Reinforced sidewall construction for added durability and protection against curb damage
Specifications:
- Treadwear Warranty: 60,000 miles
- Available Sizes: 15-20 inch rim diameters
- Speed Rating: T, H, or V (depending on size)
- Load Range: Standard (S) or Extra Load (XL)
Pros:
- Excellent wet and dry traction
- Comfortable and quiet ride quality
- Responsive handling and cornering stability
- Affordable price point for an all-season touring tire
Cons:
- Treadlife and wear performance may not match premium tier tires
- Snow and ice traction could be better for severe winter conditions
- Ride quality may become harsher as tires wear down
Overall, the Falken Ziex CT60 A/S is a solid choice for Subaru Forester owners seeking a capable all-season tire that delivers a comfortable ride, reliable traction, and a good value for the money.
Toyo Extensa A/S
- All-season touring tire for sedans, coupes, and minivans
- Balanced performance in comfort, handling, and value
- Asymmetric tread pattern for enhanced handling and stability
- Impressive dry road performance with responsive steering
- Good wet traction and hydroplaning resistance
- Adequate light snow and ice performance for an all-season tire
- Smooth and quiet ride, even at highway speeds
Price Check
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The Toyo Extensa A/S is a reliable all-season tire designed for sedans, crossovers, and small SUVs like the Subaru Forester. It offers a well-balanced performance on both dry and wet roads, making it an excellent choice for city driving.
Highlights:
- Symmetric tread pattern for even wear and extended tread life
- Wide circumferential grooves for enhanced hydroplaning resistance
- Silica-enhanced tread compound for improved traction on wet surfaces
- Advanced polymer construction for a comfortable and quiet ride
Specifications:
- Treadwear: 600 A/A
- Traction: A
- Temperature: A
- Speed Rating: H (130 mph)
- Available Sizes: 15-20 inch
Pros:
- Excellent wet and dry traction
- Smooth and comfortable ride quality
- Long-lasting tread life
- Affordable pricing compared to premium brands
Cons:
- Average performance in snow and icy conditions
- Slightly higher road noise compared to premium touring tires
- Limited size options for larger vehicles
Overall, the Toyo Extensa A/S is a well-rounded tire that delivers reliable performance and a comfortable ride for city driving conditions. Its affordability and long tread life make it an attractive option for Subaru Forester owners seeking a quality all-season tire.
General Altimax RT43
- Safety, comfort, and affordability are its key attributes
- It excels in various weather conditions, especially in wet conditions
- Offers a soft, comfortable ride and is relatively quiet
- Boasts an impressive treadwear warranty for long-lasting value
- A reliable and popular choice for diverse driving needs
Price Check
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The General AltiMax RT43 is an all-season touring tire designed for drivers who want a balance of performance, comfort, and affordability. Here are some highlights, specifications, pros, and cons of this tire:
Highlights:
- Affordable pricing for a touring tire
- Long tread life and even wear
- Good dry and wet traction
- Comfortable and quiet ride
Specifications:
- Tread compound: Silica-enhanced
- Tread design: Symmetric pattern with four circumferential grooves
- Treadwear warranty: 75,000 miles
- Available sizes: 15-20 inch diameters
Pros:
- Excellent value for the money
- Reliable all-season traction
- Smooth and quiet ride quality
- Long tread life and warranty
Cons:
- Traction and handling may not match premium tires
- Limited sizes available
- Not the best choice for severe winter conditions
The General AltiMax RT43 is a solid choice for Subaru Forester owners who want a dependable and affordable all-season tire for city driving. Its long tread life, comfortable ride, and decent traction make it a popular option among budget-conscious drivers.
Factors for Longer Tire Life
Proper driving habits and regular maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your tires. Here are some tips to maximize tread life:
Driving Habits:
- Avoid aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and excessive speeding, as these behaviors increase tread wear.
- Take turns smoothly without excessive steering input or squealing tires.
- Maintain recommended tire pressures, as underinflation leads to increased wear on the outer edges, while overinflation causes premature wear in the center.
- Rotate tires according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically every 5,000-8,000 miles, to promote even wear across all four tires.
Maintenance:
- Have your tires balanced and wheels aligned regularly to prevent uneven wear patterns.
- Inspect tires periodically for cuts, bulges, or other damage that could lead to premature failure.
- Replace tires when the tread depth reaches the minimum recommended level, typically 2/32 of an inch.
- Consider investing in high-quality tires designed for long tread life and low rolling resistance.
By following these driving and maintenance tips, you can maximize the lifespan of your tires, ensuring a smooth and safe ride while minimizing replacement costs.
When to Replace Your Tires
Knowing when to replace your tires is crucial for maintaining safety and optimal performance on the road. Here are some key signs that it’s time to get new tires for your Subaru Forester:
Signs of Wear
- Tread Depth: The tread depth should be at least 2/32 of an inch deep. You can check this by using a tread depth gauge or the penny test (inserting a penny upside down into the tread groove – if you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires).
- Uneven Wear: If you notice that the tread is wearing unevenly, with bald spots or excessive wear on one side, it’s a sign that your tires need to be replaced.
- Cracks or Bulges: Inspect your tires for any cracks, bulges, or cuts in the sidewall. These can compromise the structural integrity of the tire and increase the risk of a blowout.
Recommended Replacement Intervals
Even if your tires don’t show obvious signs of wear, it’s generally recommended to replace them every 6 years or so, depending on your driving conditions and mileage. The rubber compounds in tires can degrade over time, even if the tread depth seems adequate.
Safety Considerations
Driving on worn or damaged tires can be extremely dangerous, as it reduces traction, handling, and braking performance. This can increase the risk of accidents, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Replacing your tires in a timely manner is essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road.