Best Tires for Subaru Ascent

When it comes to your Subaru Ascent, the tires you choose can make a world of difference in how your vehicle performs, handles, and protects your family. As the sole point of contact between your SUV and the road, tires aren’t just rubber accessories they’re essential safety components that influence everything from fuel efficiency to ride comfort.

The Subaru Ascent, with its three-row versatility and all-weather capability, demands tires that can handle its unique combination of size, weight, and performance requirements. Whether you’re navigating city streets, embarking on family road trips, or venturing off the beaten path, having the right tires ensures your Ascent delivers the confidence-inspiring experience Subaru owners expect.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best tires for Subaru Ascent, breaking down what makes certain tires excel on this popular family SUV. We’ll examine key factors to consider when shopping for tires, highlight top-performing models from leading manufacturers, and share practical tips to maximize the lifespan of your investment. Whether you’re replacing worn tires or upgrading from the factory set, this guide will help you make an informed decision that enhances your Ascent’s performance, safety, and value.

Why Tires Matter for the Subaru Ascent

Proper tires are crucial for the Subaru Ascent, a large three-row SUV that demands a lot from its rubber. Safety should be the top priority when selecting tires for this family hauler. The right tires provide maximum traction on wet or dry roads, ensuring stable handling and optimal braking performance. This boosts driver confidence and helps keep loved ones secure.

Beyond safety, tires significantly impact the Ascent’s ride quality, steering feel, and overall driving dynamics. High-quality rubber minimizes road noise for a quieter cabin and cushions bumps for greater comfort. With a vehicle this size, the tires literally shape the driving experience.

Tires also play a role in durability and operating costs. Longevity impacts overall value, while low-rolling-resistance tires can boost fuel efficiency. The Ascent’s weight and power create considerable stress, so long-tread-life tires are a wise investment.

Due to its size and capability, the Ascent has unique tire needs compared to smaller crossovers. The large footprint demands tires with a higher load rating. And for those who venture off-road, all-terrain or rugged all-season designs are a must for traction. Choosing the wrong tires can hamper the Ascent’s performance in harsh conditions that active families may encounter.

What to Look for in Tires for the Subaru Ascent

When selecting tires for your Subaru Ascent, it’s essential to consider several key factors to ensure optimal performance, safety, and longevity. Here are some critical criteria to keep in mind:

Treadwear Rating: The treadwear rating indicates the tire’s expected lifespan under specific testing conditions. A higher rating typically means the tire will last longer, providing better value for your investment.

Temperature Rating: Tires are rated for their ability to withstand heat buildup during operation. The temperature rating signifies the tire’s resistance to heat generation and its suitability for different driving conditions.

Traction: Traction is crucial for maintaining control and stability on various road surfaces, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Look for tires with advanced tread patterns and compounds designed to enhance traction.

Load Capacity: The Subaru Ascent is a midsize SUV capable of carrying heavy loads, so it’s essential to choose tires with an appropriate load capacity rating. This rating indicates the maximum weight the tire can safely support when properly inflated.

Speed Rating: While the Subaru Ascent is not designed for high-speed performance, it’s still important to consider the speed rating of your tires. This rating indicates the maximum sustainable speed the tire can handle before compromising safety and performance.

All-Season vs. Winter Tires: Depending on your driving conditions and climate, you may need to choose between all-season tires or dedicated winter tires. All-season tires offer versatility for various weather conditions, while winter tires provide superior traction and performance in snow and ice.

By considering these critical factors, you can select tires that not only meet the Subaru Ascent’s requirements but also align with your driving needs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

Top 10 Best Tires for Subaru Ascent

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The Michelin Defender LTX M/S is widely regarded as the top all-season tire choice for the Subaru Ascent. This premium tire from the renowned Michelin brand offers exceptional performance in various conditions, making it a versatile option for drivers seeking a balance of comfort, handling, and longevity.

Key Specs:

• Tire Type: All-Season
• Treadwear Warranty: 70,000 miles
• Enhanced Tread Compound: Provides excellent traction and grip on wet and dry roads
• Comfort Control Technology: Reduces road noise and vibrations for a smoother ride

Pros:

• Outstanding all-season performance with reliable traction in wet and light snow conditions
• Excellent handling and responsive steering for a confident driving experience
• Long-lasting tread life backed by Michelin’s impressive treadwear warranty
• Comfortable and quiet ride, thanks to the innovative noise-reducing technology

Cons:

• Premium pricing compared to some other options
• Not designed for severe winter conditions or deep snow (a dedicated winter tire may be required)

Pricing:
Expect to pay around $200-$250 per tire for the Michelin Defender LTX M/S, depending on the size and retailer.

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The Bridgestone Ecopia H/L 422 Plus is a highly recommended all-season tire for the Subaru Ascent, offering a blend of comfort, fuel efficiency, and reliable performance. This eco-friendly tire from the respected Bridgestone brand provides a balanced driving experience suitable for daily commutes and family road trips.

Key Specs:

• Tire Type: All-Season
• Treadwear Warranty: 70,000 miles
• NanoPro-Tech Compound: Enhances fuel efficiency and reduces rolling resistance
• Symmetric Tread Design: Promotes even wear and quiet operation

Pros:

• Excellent fuel efficiency, helping to reduce your vehicle’s carbon footprint
• Comfortable and quiet ride, ideal for long journeys
• Reliable all-season performance with good traction in light snow and wet conditions
• Long-lasting tread life backed by Bridgestone’s robust treadwear warranty
• Competitive pricing compared to some premium alternatives

Cons:

• May not offer the same level of performance in severe winter conditions as specialized winter tires
• Handling might not be as sporty as some performance-oriented all-season tires

Pricing:
Expect to pay approximately $160-$200 per tire for the Bridgestone Ecopia H/L 422 Plus, depending on the size and retailer.

The Ecopia H/L 422 Plus stands out for its eco-friendly design and focus on fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for Subaru Ascent owners who prioritize environmental consciousness without compromising on comfort and reliability.

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The Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady 2 is a top-tier all-season tire that stands out as an excellent choice for the Subaru Ascent. This advanced tire from the renowned Goodyear brand offers superior performance across a wide range of weather conditions, making it an ideal option for drivers seeking year-round reliability and safety.

Key Specs:

• Tire Type: All-Season
• Treadwear Warranty: 60,000 miles
• Weather Reactive Technology: Adapts to changing road conditions for consistent performance
• 3D TredLock Technology Blades: Provides enhanced traction in corners and wet conditions
• Evolving Traction Grooves: Maintain wet traction as the tire wears

Pros:

• Exceptional all-season performance, including impressive handling in light snow and wet conditions
• Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, indicating suitability for severe snow conditions
• Excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance
• Comfortable and quiet ride, even on long journeys
• Innovative tread design that maintains performance as the tire wears

Cons:

• Slightly higher price point compared to standard all-season tires
• May not match the performance of dedicated winter tires in extreme winter conditions

Pricing:
Expect to pay around $180-$230 per tire for the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady, depending on the size and retailer.

The Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady 2 offers Subaru Ascent owners a versatile and reliable tire option that excels in various weather conditions, providing peace of mind and consistent performance throughout the year.

Don’t know the correct size tire to purchase? Start here!

The Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 is a highly capable all-terrain tire that offers an excellent balance of on-road comfort and off-road performance for the Subaru Ascent. This versatile tire from the respected Yokohama brand provides drivers with the confidence to tackle various road conditions while maintaining a comfortable daily driving experience.

Key Specs:

Tire Type: All-Terrain
Treadwear Warranty: 60,000 miles
EnduroCompound Technology: Enhances tread life and all-season performance
EdgeTec Grooves: Improves traction in snow and mud conditions
3D sipes: Increases biting edges for improved wet and winter performance

Pros:

• Impressive all-terrain capability without sacrificing on-road comfort
• Excellent traction in wet, snowy, and light off-road conditions
• Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, indicating suitability for severe snow conditions
• Long-lasting tread life backed by Yokohama’s solid treadwear warranty
• Relatively quiet for an all-terrain tire, making it suitable for daily use

Cons:

• May not offer the same level of extreme off-road performance as more aggressive all-terrain or mud-terrain tires
• Slightly reduced fuel efficiency compared to highway or touring tires due to its all-terrain design

Pricing:
Expect to pay around $170-$220 per tire for the Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015, depending on the size and retailer.

The Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 is an excellent choice for Subaru Ascent owners who want a tire that can handle light off-road adventures while still providing a comfortable and quiet ride for everyday driving. Its balanced performance makes it a versatile option for those seeking more capability than a standard all-season tire without the compromises of a more aggressive off-road tire.

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The Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail is an outstanding all-terrain tire specifically designed for crossovers and SUVs like the Subaru Ascent. This innovative tire from Falken offers a perfect blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability, making it an ideal choice for adventurous drivers who don’t want to compromise on daily driving performance.

Key Specs:

• Tire Type: All-Terrain
• Treadwear Warranty: 65,000 miles
• 3D Canyon Sipe Technology: Enhances winter performance and handling
• Upper Sidewall Protection: Provides additional traction at low tire pressures and protects against road hazards
• Silica Tread Compound: Improves wet performance and longevity

Pros:

• Excellent balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability
• Superior performance in wet conditions and light snow
• Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, indicating suitability for severe snow conditions
• Impressive tread life backed by Falken’s generous treadwear warranty
• Quieter and more fuel-efficient than traditional all-terrain tires

Cons:

• May not offer the same level of extreme off-road performance as more aggressive all-terrain tires
• Slightly less refined on-road manners compared to pure highway tires

Pricing:
Expect to pay around $160-$210 per tire for the Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail, depending on the size and retailer.

The Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail stands out as a versatile option for Subaru Ascent owners who want a tire that can handle light off-road adventures without sacrificing the comfort and efficiency needed for daily driving. Its unique design caters specifically to crossovers and SUVs, offering a perfect balance of performance, durability, and comfort for vehicles like the Ascent.

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The Continental CrossContact LX25 is a premium all-season touring tire designed specifically for crossovers and SUVs like the Subaru Ascent. This tire from the renowned Continental brand offers exceptional on-road performance, comfort, and longevity, making it an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize a smooth, quiet ride and year-round traction.

Key Specs:

• Tire Type: All-Season Touring
• Treadwear Warranty: 70,000 miles
• EcoPlus Technology: Enhances fuel efficiency and tread life
• Comfort Ride Technology: Reduces road vibrations for a smoother ride
• Traction Grooves: Improves wet and snow performance

Pros:

• Excellent all-season traction, especially in wet conditions
• Comfortable and quiet ride, ideal for daily driving and long trips
• Impressive tread life backed by Continental’s generous warranty
• Good fuel efficiency due to low rolling resistance
• Reliable light snow performance for an all-season tire

Cons:

• Not designed for off-road use or severe winter conditions
• May not provide the same level of handling precision as some performance-oriented tires

Pricing:
Expect to pay around $150-$200 per tire for the Continental CrossContact LX25, depending on the size and retailer.

The Continental CrossContact LX25 is an outstanding choice for Subaru Ascent owners who prioritize on-road comfort, all-season performance, and longevity. While it may not offer the off-road capabilities of all-terrain tires, it excels in providing a smooth, quiet ride and reliable traction in most everyday driving conditions. Its balance of performance, comfort, and durability makes it a popular option for crossover and SUV owners who spend the majority of their time on paved roads.

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The Kumho Crugen HT51 is a high-quality highway all-season tire designed for SUVs, crossovers, and light trucks, making it a suitable option for vehicles like the Subaru Ascent. This tire from Kumho offers a blend of comfortable highway driving, all-season performance, and durability at a competitive price point.

Key Specs:

• Tire Type: Highway All-Season
• Treadwear Warranty: 70,000 miles
• Symmetric Tread Design: Promotes even wear and quiet operation
• Full-Depth Sipes: Enhances traction in wet and wintry conditions
• Wide Circumferential Grooves: Improves hydroplaning resistance

Pros:

• Excellent value for money, offering premium features at a competitive price
• Comfortable and quiet ride, ideal for highway driving
• Good all-season traction, including light snow performance
• Impressive tread life backed by Kumho’s generous warranty
• Fuel-efficient design helps reduce overall operating costs

Cons:

• May not offer the same level of performance as some premium brand tires
• Not designed for off-road use or severe winter conditions

Pricing:
Expect to pay around $120-$170 per tire for the Kumho Crugen HT51, depending on the size and retailer.

The Kumho Crugen HT51 stands out as a budget-friendly option for Subaru Ascent owners who want a reliable all-season tire without breaking the bank. While it may not have the brand recognition of some premium tire manufacturers, it offers a compelling mix of performance, comfort, and durability. Its highway-focused design provides a smooth and quiet ride, making it ideal for drivers who spend most of their time on paved roads and highways. The Crugen HT51’s balance of affordability and performance makes it a popular choice for cost-conscious SUV and crossover owners looking for dependable all-season traction and long tread life.

Hankook Dynapro HP2

The Hankook Dynapro HP2 is a premium all-season tire designed specifically for SUVs and crossovers, making it a suitable option for vehicles like the Subaru Ascent. This tire from Hankook offers a blend of performance, comfort, and all-season versatility, catering to drivers who desire a responsive and reliable tire for various road conditions.

Key Specs:

• Tire Type: All-Season Performance
• Treadwear Warranty: 65,000 miles
• Silica Compound: Enhances wet traction and fuel efficiency
• High Stiffness Center Block: Improves steering response and stability
• Wide Lateral Grooves: Promotes water evacuation and wet performance

Pros:

• Excellent dry and wet traction for confident handling
• Responsive steering and cornering stability
• Comfortable and relatively quiet ride for daily driving
• Good fuel efficiency due to low rolling resistance
• Reliable all-season performance, including light snow capability

Cons:

• Treadwear warranty is slightly lower than some competitors
• May not excel in deep snow or severe winter conditions

Pricing:
Expect to pay around $130-$180 per tire for the Hankook Dynapro HP2, depending on the size and retailer.

The Hankook Dynapro HP2 is an appealing choice for Subaru Ascent owners who want a tire that balances performance with everyday comfort and reliability. It offers improved handling characteristics compared to standard touring tires, making it suitable for drivers who enjoy a more engaging driving experience. The Dynapro HP2’s all-season compound and tread design provide consistent performance across a range of weather conditions, though it’s not intended for severe winter use or off-road adventures.

This tire’s combination of responsive handling, comfortable ride, and all-season versatility makes it a popular option for SUV and crossover owners who prioritize on-road performance without sacrificing daily driving comfort. While the treadwear warranty is slightly lower than some competitors, the Dynapro HP2 still offers good value for its performance characteristics and should provide satisfactory longevity for most drivers.

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The Firestone Destination LE3 is a premium all-season tire designed for SUVs, crossovers, and light trucks, making it a suitable option for vehicles like the Subaru Ascent. This tire from Firestone offers a blend of long-lasting performance, comfort, and all-season capability, catering to drivers who prioritize durability and reliable year-round traction.

Key Specs:

• Tire Type: All-Season Highway
• Treadwear Warranty: 70,000 miles
• Hydro-Grip Technology: Enhances wet traction and hydroplaning resistance
• TractionTech Package: Improves handling and traction in various conditions
• Noise-reducing tread pattern: Promotes a quiet and comfortable ride

Pros:

• Excellent treadwear and longevity backed by a strong warranty
• Impressive wet and dry traction for confident handling
• Comfortable and quiet ride, ideal for highway driving
• Good fuel efficiency due to low rolling resistance design
• Reliable all-season performance, including light snow capability

Cons:

• May not offer the sporty handling of some performance-oriented tires
• Not designed for severe winter conditions or off-road use

Pricing:
Expect to pay around $130-$190 per tire for the Firestone Destination LE3, depending on the size and retailer.

The Firestone Destination LE3 stands out as a well-rounded option for Subaru Ascent owners who want a durable, comfortable, and reliable all-season tire. It builds upon the success of its predecessor, the LE2, with improvements in wet traction, snow performance, and fuel efficiency. The LE3’s focus on longevity and all-season capability makes it particularly appealing to drivers who cover high mileage or live in areas with varying weather conditions.

This tire’s balanced performance characteristics make it suitable for a wide range of driving styles and conditions. The Destination LE3 provides a smooth and quiet ride for daily commuting and long highway trips, while still offering responsive handling and confident traction when needed. Its robust construction and long treadwear warranty suggest excellent value for money, potentially reducing the frequency of tire replacements for many drivers.

While it may not provide the ultimate in performance or winter traction, the Firestone Destination LE3 offers a compelling blend of features that cater to the needs of most SUV and crossover owners. Its combination of durability, comfort, and all-season versatility makes it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and long-lasting tire for their vehicle.

Don’t know the correct size tire to purchase? Start here!

The General Grabber HTS60 is a premium all-season highway tire designed for light trucks, SUVs, and crossovers, making it a suitable option for vehicles like the Subaru Ascent. This tire from General Tire offers a balance of durability, comfort, and all-season performance, catering to drivers who seek a reliable and long-lasting tire for everyday use.

Key Specs:

• Tire Type: All-Season Highway
• Treadwear Warranty: 65,000 miles (LT sizes: 50,000 miles)
• DuraGen Technology: Enhances tread life and durability
• Comfort Balance Technology: Provides a smooth and quiet ride
• StabiliTread Technology: Improves tread wear and handling

Pros:

• Excellent treadwear and durability for long-lasting performance
• Good wet and dry traction for confident handling in various conditions
• Comfortable and quiet ride, ideal for highway driving
• Competitive pricing compared to other premium highway tires
• Reliable all-season performance, including light snow capability

Cons:

• Treadwear warranty is slightly lower than some competitors
• May not excel in severe winter conditions or off-road terrain

Pricing:
Expect to pay around $120-$180 per tire for the General Grabber HTS60, depending on the size and retailer.

The General Grabber HTS60 is an appealing choice for Subaru Ascent owners who prioritize durability and comfort in their tire selection. This tire is designed to provide a smooth and quiet ride for daily commuting and long highway trips, while still offering reliable traction and handling in various weather conditions.

One of the standout features of the Grabber HTS60 is its focus on longevity. The DuraGen Technology used in its construction helps to extend tread life and improve overall durability, making it a good choice for drivers who cover high mileage or want to maximize their tire investment. The StabiliTread Technology further enhances tread wear consistency and handling performance over the life of the tire.

While the Grabber HTS60 may not offer the ultimate in performance or winter traction, it provides a well-rounded package that suits the needs of most SUV and crossover owners. Its all-season compound and tread design offer good traction in wet and dry conditions, as well as light snow, making it versatile for year-round use in many climates.

The tire’s Comfort Balance Technology contributes to a smooth and quiet ride, which is particularly beneficial for highway driving and long trips. This focus on comfort, combined with its durability and all-season performance, makes the General Grabber HTS60 a popular choice for drivers who want a reliable and comfortable tire without breaking the bank.

In summary, the General Grabber HTS60 offers a compelling blend of durability, comfort, and all-season performance at a competitive price point. While it may not be the top choice for extreme conditions or performance driving, it provides excellent value for everyday use and long-distance travel in a variety of weather conditions.

Tips for Maximizing Tire Life on the Subaru Ascent

Proper tire inflation is crucial for maximizing tire life on your Subaru Ascent. Underinflated tires cause excessive wear on the outer edges, while overinflated tires lead to premature wear in the center. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure and inspect pressures monthly when the tires are cold.

Regular tire rotation is another key factor in promoting even tread wear. Most manufacturers recommend rotating your tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. By rotating the tires, you equalize the wear patterns and extend the overall lifespan of your set.

Maintaining proper wheel alignment is equally important. Misaligned wheels cause uneven and rapid tread wear, as well as decreased fuel efficiency and potential safety issues. Have your alignment checked periodically, especially after hitting curbs or potholes.

Speaking of potholes and curbs, avoiding these obstacles as much as possible is highly recommended. Striking them can cause significant damage to your tires, wheels, and suspension components. Slow down when approaching unavoidable potholes and cross them as squarely as you can.

Finally, be mindful of your vehicle’s load capacity. Overloading your Subaru Ascent with excessive weight puts additional strain on the tires, leading to premature wear and potential blowouts. Refer to your owner’s manual for the maximum recommended load and distribute weight evenly when carrying heavy cargo or towing.