Best Tires for Toyota Highlander: Complete Guide

8 Best Tires for Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander was first released to the public in the early 2000s, making it the first car-based SUV in the world! Many people are drawn to this vehicle because it is very family friendly and comfortable for passengers of any age.

For most people, buying the vehicle is the easy part of the car owning process. The trouble comes when you have to figure out which tire to purchase as a replacement a few years down the road. We have put together a list of the top eight tires for the Toyota Highlander to make that part of your selection much easier.

The tires listed have been tested and tried and proven to be the top ranking choice for each of the categories, and all of them will take your time in your Highlander to the next level. Staying safe while driving is a key factor no matter what, so it is important to note that all of these tires are safe and have many features for drivers.

When you select a tire from the list below, you are choosing one of the top rated tires and will hopefully be very happy with your selection. If you ever have any questions in the tire purchasing process, always check with your tire salesman for more advice.

Michelin Premier LTX - Best All-Season Tire

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One of the best tires on the market as a whole is the Michelin Premier LTX tire. This tire has been rated and reviewed by a number of customers and regarded as a great tire option for the Toyota Highlander and other vehicles as well.

Made with Michelin’s famous Evergrip Technology, the Premier LTX tire maintains great traction with the road in both rain or sunshine. Staying in constant contact with the road is the best way to ensure safety for you as well as other drivers on the road.

Another key feature of this tire is the minimal road noise created as the tire is in motion. When you have road noise, it is easy to get distracted and take your focus off of the road. Without any road noise present, drivers are much less stressed and a lot better off overall.

This tire is perfect for the changing seasons and can even handle the snowy conditions as well as dry and wet roads. With a tire that can handle it all, why look any further than the Michelin Premier LTX tire?

Specifications

• Warranty: 60,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 44-51 PSI
• Tread Depth: 9”
• Tire Weight: 26-37 lbs
• Load Index: 98-112
• UTQG Tread Wear: 620
• UTQG Traction: A
• UTQG Temperature: A

 FAQ

How do these tires handle winter weather conditions?

As mentioned above, these tires can handle light snow or ice with ease. With deeper snow driving, it is always best to have a winter tire that is marked for severe weather conditions.

What is the road noise like?

The Michelin Premier LTX tire was rated 8.7 for overall ride quality and 8.5 for road noise on a scale of 1-10.

What sizes are available?

The available sizes are anywhere from 16”-22”.

Michelin Defender LTX M/S - Best Summer Tire

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The Michelin Defender LTX M/S tire is a reliable and durable tire that will be there for you no matter where you plan to drive on your summer vacation. This tire can handle driving on paved surfaces without a problem but also shine when the road is less than ideal.

With a great amount of traction any time of the year, this tire will stick to the road even if an unpredictable summer rainstorm comes up. Drivers who have these tires on board do not have to worry about their safety, and can instead focus on the good times spent behind the wheel.

Another key feature of this tire is the great responsive steering and excellent handling, something that is necessary for people who like to push the limits and drive more aggressively. Being in control is crucial to staying safe, so having a tire that keeps up with your driving style is the only way to ensure you are making good choices on the road.

As your tire wears over time, your Michelin Defender LTS M/S tires will experience even tread wear and will still be just as safe. When it is time to replace your tires again, you will more than likely come back to this trustworthy, fuel efficient and comfortable tire choice.

Specifications

• Warranty: 50,000-70,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 44-80 PSI
• Tread Depth: 11-14”
• Tire Weight: 23-61 lbs
• Load Index: 95-129
• UTQG Tread Wear: 720-800
• UTQG Traction: A-AA
• UTQG Temperature: A

 FAQ

How do these tires handle winter weather conditions?

These tires are great for gripping the road in light snow, and are unlike other summer tires in that they are actually able to handle the changing temperatures.

What is the road noise like?

The road noise rating is at 8.9 (out of 10), making this a very comfortable tire choice for passengers.

What sizes are available?

In a wide range of 15”-22”, you are sure to find the perfect fit for your Toyota Highlander to make all of your summer driving dreams come true.

Michelin Latitude X-Ice Xi2 - Best Winter Tire

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Areas of the country that have severe winter weather the majority of the year are prime candidates for investing in a good winter tire. Just because the roads freeze and get covered in ice or snow does not mean that life stops and you have no responsibilities.

Safely getting to work or to school is more important than ever when the conditions outside are less than favorable. The Michelin Latitude X-Ice Xi2 tire is there for you when you need it the most.

This tire is marked with a 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating, allowing customers to know that it is highly rated for extreme weather conditions. No matter what is on the road, your tire’s tread will be able to bite through the ice or snow to grip the road below.

The tread is also able to push away excess water, ice or snow in order to prevent hydroplaning when accelerating or braking. As with most winter tires, always install these in a set of four and remember that the tread is directional.

Specifications

• Warranty: N/A
• Max Inflation Pressure: 44-50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 11”
• Tire Weight: 29-43 lbs
• Load Index: 103-115
• UTQG Tread Wear: N/A
• UTQG Traction: N/A
• UTQG Temperature: N/A

 FAQ

Can you drive on dry roads, too?

Of course! You will have traction with any road condition, but these tires really shine in the more extreme weather.

What is the road noise like?

Even though these tires are working super hard to cut through snow and ice, they are a great and comfortable set of tires to have on your vehicle. On a scale of 1-10, they were rated 8.6 for road noise and 9.0 for overall ride quality - that is hard to beat!

What sizes are available?

These winter tires are available in sizes 16”-20”.

Nitto NT 421Q - Best Performance Street Tire

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When it comes to a great performance street tire, look no further than the Nitto NT 421Q tire. This tire has an all-season tread pattern, allowing it to stay in contact with the road regardless of what the weather is doing or how low the temperatures drop.

The 3D sipes in the tread pattern allow the water to be pushed away from the tire to prevent hydroplaning when accelerating and braking, even at quicker speeds. People looking for performance tires want a tire that can keep up with their driving habits, and this tire does just that.

From excellent handling and quick response time, you can drive as you wish without worrying about the safety of the vehicle in the process. With almost no road noise at all, this tire is also a very comfortable choice as it allows drivers to focus on the road instead of the obnoxious noises that are sometimes created by tires.

The Nitto NT 421Q tire not only functions well, but it looks amazing on your Toyota Highlander as well. With a warranty of 60,000-75,000 miles, this is a great choice for drivers with more aggressive driving habits.

Specifications

• Warranty: 60,000-75,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50-51 PSI
• Tread Depth: 10-13”
• Tire Weight: 31-47 lbs
• Load Index: 102-117
• UTQG Tread Wear: 560-640
• UTQG Traction: A
• UTQG Temperature: A

 FAQ

What sizes are available?

The available sizes for this tire are anywhere from 17”-22”.

What is the max load capacity?

The max load capacity for the Nitto NT 421Q tire is anywhere from 1,874-2,833 pounds, depending on which size of tire is purchased.

How is winter weather driving?

Most customers have reported that these tires have great traction even in winter weather! If you are needing a tire to help navigate deep snow, it is probably best to lean towards a winter tire designed to handle those conditions.

Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II - Best Touring Tire

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Many SUV, pickup and crossover drivers find that the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II tire delivers everything they are looking for in a great touring tire. When looking for a tire that handles any amount of mileage you need to travel, touring tires are always a great option.

With amazing handling of your vehicle and traction year-round, the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II tire is one that many customers find to be a great option. When rain comes pouring, your touring tires will still have traction with the road and will be able to push away any excess water from the tire to prevent hydroplaning.

One of the awesome features that draws people to this particular tire is how quiet and comfortable the ride is. With the Pirelli Noise Cancelling System, you will have an even better driving experience as your tire cancels out all extra noise or vibrations.

Staying comfortable and eliminating stress while driving are key components to staying safe while out on the roads, and with the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II tire, you can expect nothing less.

Specifications

• Warranty: 65,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 44-51 PSI
• Tread Depth: 10-11”
• Tire Weight: 29-51 lbs
• Load Index: 99-116
• UTQG Tread Wear: 740
• UTQG Traction: A
• UTQG Temperature: A

 FAQ

How do these tires handle winter weather conditions?

If you are trying to drive through snow or ice with these tires on board, you will be just fine as they provide great traction in winter weather conditions.

What is the road noise like?

On a scale of 1-10, the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II tires were rated 8.1 for road noise and 8.6 for overall ride quality.

What sizes are available?

This tire is available for purchase in sizes 16”-22”.

Continental CrossContact LX25 - Best Highway Tire

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Highway tires are for people that spend a lot of time traveling on paved surfaces and want a tire that maximizes tread life as well as fuel efficiency. The Continental CrossContact LX25 is a premium tire that Toyota Highlander drivers find to be a great tire for their vehicle.

When water is on the road, you do not have to worry about your brake time or potential hydroplaning as this tire is able to handle it with ease. No matter what the weather is doing outside, you do not have to change your plans to accommodate the conditions. Regardless of the season, you will have great traction with these tires on board.

These tires are great for allowing the driver to stay in control of the vehicle at all times with very responsive handling. When driving on paved surfaces, having control is crucial to staying as safe as possible.

The Continental CrossContact LX25 tires are great for driving on dry, wet or snowy roads and will safely get you to your destination.

Specifications

• Warranty: 65,000-70,000 miles
• Max Inflation Pressure: 44-51 PSI
• Tread Depth: 10-12”
• Tire Weight: 24-43 lbs
• Load Index: 95-114
• UTQG Tread Wear: 740
• UTQG Traction: A
• UTQG Temperature: A-B

 FAQ

How do these tires handle winter weather conditions?

With a rating of 9.1 (out of 10) for light snow traction, you can expect these tires to really deliver, even in less than ideal, snowy conditions.

What is the road noise like?

On a scale of 1-10, the Continental CrossContact LX25 tires scored 8.7 for road noise and 9.1 for ride quality, making this a very comfortable and reliable set of tires.

What sizes are available?

These tires are available in sizes 16”-22”.

Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure - Best Off-Road Tire

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Having the freedom to take your Toyota Highlander off road  is something that some customers find to be necessary and enjoyable. With the Goodyear Wrangler All Terrain Adventure, you are are setting yourself up for just what the name states - adventures galore!

Off-Road tires are different from other tires on the market as they are able to handle the rough terrains and will not be easily punctured by rocks or other debris. They are made to be more durable and able to withstand just about any terrain you might drive on.

Traction in any season of the year is also crucial to staying safe while on (or off) the paved roads. Even if you find yourself stuck in winter weather, you will still be safe with a tire that grips the road in any condition.

When you choose off-road tires you are choosing a tire that allows you to drive wherever you want, whenever you want!

Specifications

• Warranty: N/A
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 12”
• Tire Weight: 38 lbs
• Load Index: 116
• UTQG Tread Wear: 640
• UTQG Traction: A
• UTQG Temperature: B

 FAQ

Is the tread directional?

Luckily, it is not! You are free to rotate the tires as you wish around the vehicle.

What is the winter condition driving like?

These tires are marked by a 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol and will be able to navigate the most extreme winter weather conditions.

What sizes are available?

These tires are available in sizes 18”-20”.

Bridgestone Alenza Sport A/S - Best OEM Tire

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When you choose an OEM tire, you are getting a tire that the manufacturer decided was a great option for this vehicle while it was created in the factory. For the Toyota Highlander, one of the most popular OEM tire choices is the Bridgestone Alenza Sport A/S tire, and for good reason!

This tire was made for crossovers or SUVs and provides great traction all year long, and look very good in the process! If the appearance of your tire is something you are passionate about, then choosing this tire will give you a high functioning and good-looking option. From traction in snow or ice to a quiet and comfortable drive, this tire does it all.

With a 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating, you can trust that the Bridgestone Alenza Sport A/S tire can handle the most extreme winter weather and will be a safe tire for navigating these intense weather conditions.

Bridgestone has been a trustworthy company that many people are brand loyal to because of the reliable and dependable tires they create. The Bridgestone Alenza Sport A/S tire is an overall great pick for your Toyota Highlander.

Specifications

• Warranty: N/A
• Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
• Tread Depth: 10”
• Tire Weight: 40 lbs
• Load Index: 110
• UTQG Tread Wear: 500
• UTQG Traction: A
• UTQG Temperature: A

 FAQ

What is the road noise like?

These tires are very comfortable for passengers inside while the vehicle is in motion. You will not experience much road noise or distracting bumps or vibrations.

What sizes are available?

This tire comes in sizes 19”-21”.

Buyer’s Guide

What to Know Before Buying Tires

There are several key things that will help you to narrow down your search for the perfect tires for the Toyota Highlander. Here are a few things that we suggest you know before you begin your tire hunt.

• Driving Climate - The temperature where you plan to spend the majority of your time on the roads will determine whether or not you are needing a summer or winter tire. If the temperatures regularly drop below 40degrees Fahrenheit, then you need to stay away from several summer tires on the market. For driving through deep snow conditions, winter tires are always the best option.
• Driving Style - If you are more of an aggressive driver and enjoy taking risks behind the wheel, then chances are you will need a performance tire that can keep up with your short braking distances, quick turns and driving at faster speeds.
• Driving Mileage - People who spend a lot of time on long road trips or long commutes to and from work will find that a tire that has great tread wear and is long lasting is the best option. One of the worst things that could happen while out on a long road trip is the tread not being able to keep up and you needing to spend several hours at a tire shop. Planning ahead is key to having a great experience with your tires.
• Comfort - The road noise is a huge factor in which tires you will end up purchasing. Having a quiet and comfortable drive is crucial to making sure you are relaxed and not distracted while out on the roads. Most of the tires listed above scored great on the road noise test and will not create issues for you while you are out driving.
• Tire Size - Each tire comes in at least a few different size options, so before you purchase (especially if you are shopping online) make sure you know exactly what size you are needing for your vehicle. If you are unsure of what size your Toyota Highlander needs, always ask a tire professional for their help.
• Terrain - The type of road you plan to drive on will also dictate which tire you should purchase. Several all-season and touring tires might appear to be able to handle anything, but they are not for all-terrains. Most of these tires are built for driving on paved surfaces and will potentially get punctured or damaged if you try to take them off-roading.

Knowing the Tire Categories

• All-Season - All-Season tires are designed to handle any season of the year and will thrive best in summer, spring, and fall. While most of these tires can handle light snow or ice, it is not a good option if you are dealing with intense snowy situations. All-season tires have great traction in rain or shine and typically wear well over time.
• Summer - Summer tires provide drivers with great handling and can drive great on both dry or wet roads. If you are talking about winter weather, they are typically not able to handle any temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, so make sure you are living in an area that can handle these tires. Summer tires allow drivers to enjoy driving back roads on warm summer days.
• Winter - Winter tires are there for people who live in areas that experience a lot of snow and ice. The tread on these tires is designed to bite through the layer of ice on the roads to increase your traction in these less than ideal situations. Winter tires are built with directional tread meaning they can only be rotated forwards and backwards on the original side they were installed on. These tires are almost always purchased in sets of four to maximize traction in these slick conditions.
• Performance Street - Performance tires are a lot like summer tires in that they allow drivers to take more risks and are able to keep up with the driver’s demands. Usually these tires are best in only wet or dry conditions and are not recommended for winter weather.
• Touring - Touring tires are made for customers seeking a long tread life with fuel efficiency features alongside. These tires are typically very quiet and comfortable for passengers and allow customers to embark on long road trips without worrying about the status of the tires on their vehicle.
• Highway - Highway tires are also able to deliver a long tread life and will be very comfortable for passengers while in transit. These tires are typically designed for people who spend a long time on the paved roads for their commute or for long trips in the car.
• Off-Road - Off-Road tires are more durable than your everyday tire and will allow drivers to take their vehicle off of the paved roads and onto any terrain they desire. Traction with the terrain beneath is present and will keep drivers safe while navigating these rough terrains.
• OEM - OEM tires are the original equipment chosen by the manufacturer. Some times customers choose to purchase the OEM tires again and again because they enjoy knowing that the manufacturer finds it to be a reliable and good choice for their particular vehicle.

Regardless of the tire you choose, understanding the different categories and what each tire offers will allow you the time to consider the best option and the perfect fit for you and your Toyota Highlander. Also, it is always helpful to know what you are looking for before you get too deep in the process. Tire hunting is often looked at with disdain and dread, but when you have a plan going in to the process, it will not only speed things along but also allow you to have a little bit of fun in the process.

As previously mentioned, the above tires are all great choices as they have been regarded as the top choice for the Toyota Highlander. Choosing any of these tires will set you up for success and good times with your vehicle. While we tried to handle any questions you might have regarding each individual tire, you can always feel free to seek additional assistance if necessary. Talking to your tire shop salesman will be a good place to look if you need help to answer these questions and help steer you in the right direction. We hope you enjoy your Toyota Highlander and find the perfect tire for your driving future!