4x4 Tyres

4x4 tyres come in a number of different types and sizes and are designed for use on SUVs (Sports Utility Vehicles) and other all-terrain vehicles.

SUV ownership in the UK has increased in recent years, as has demand for tyres that have been specifically designed for vehicles intended for more challenging terrain and road surfaces.

4x4 tyres at Kwik Fit

Kwik Fit stocks a range of 4x4 tyres suitable for SUVs for both on-road and off-road use from some of the most well-known tyre brands.

The benefits of 4x4 tyres

Here are some of the advantages of using 4x4 tyres on your SUV:

• Superior traction in extreme conditions - 4x4 tyres are designed for off-road use and are excellent on difficult terrains like soft ground and steep inclines where normal tyres aren’t up to the task and can get stuck. 4x4 tyres also demonstrate better grip in adverse weather conditions like snow and ice than conventional summer tyres.
• Tough construction to hold increased loads - 4x4 tyres typically feature a higher load index than conventional summer tyres and a rigid sidewall. This means they can safely handle heavy loads with ease – ideal for transporting bulky goods or large families.
• Specially designed for 4x4 vehicles - 4x4 vehicles have two differentials, which means that power from the engine is distributed to all four wheels rather than just two on a front or rear wheel drive vehicle. As all four wheels are sharing the job of providing propulsion, it is important to fit tyres intended for specific 4x4 use – 2-wheel drive tyres mixed with 4-wheel drive tyres may suffer from grip issues and rapid wear.

Do 4x4 need special tyres?

Yes, 4x4 vehicles require special tyres. SUVs, 4x4s, and Crossovers, by definition, require particular tyres. SUVs require specific tyres due to their increased kerb weight and raised position. Their centre of gravity is higher than that of a standard passenger car, putting additional pressure on the shoulder and outside tread area of their tyres when cornering, especially at high speeds. When fitted to vehicles, SUV tyres are specifically engineered and tested to deliver a safe, pleasant, and quiet driving experience.

What does 4x4 tyre mean?

A 4x4 tyre is one that is designed to be used on 4x4 vehicles. 4x4 tyres are intended for vehicles that go off-road occasionally. They have a wider tread design than standard automobile tyres, as well as a larger tread block and deeper tyre grooves. This design helps 4x4 tyres to function better in situations such as muddy ground.

How do 4x4 tyres work?

4x4 tyres have a tread pattern that is more widely spaced than conventional car tyres and feature a larger tread block and deeper tyre grooves. This allows the tyres to get a better purchase on tough terrains like mud, grass, and snow without the tread area becoming clogged. Even if the tread does fill up, the increased surface area in contact with the ground will usually provide enough friction to keep the vehicle moving. Conventional tyres perform poorly on surfaces like boggy ground because the tread fills with mud and grass quickly and the wheel begins to spin, digging the tyre into a deeper and deeper hole.

Which 4x4 tyres should I use?

The type of 4x4 tyre you choose depends a great deal on its intended usage.

On road tyres

If the vehicle is to be used almost solely for road and motorway use then a 4x4 On Road tyre will provide the greatest benefits. These tyres look very much like standard car tyres but are larger and have a tread pattern ideal for occasional off-road use. They provide a smooth, quiet ride and improved fuel efficiency over more rugged off-roaders.

Off road tyres

On the other end of the scale, Off Road tyres will provide the best grip and handling on the most extreme terrains but are not intended for road usage. As a result, when used on regular tarmac roads, these tyres are loud, wear much faster than normal tyres, and increase fuel consumption due to increased rolling resistance. However, Off Road tyres can tackle practically any road surface and incredibly steep inclines. Off Road tyres are ideal for recreational use and agricultural vehicles where they are unlikely to be used on public roads.

All terrain tyres

All Terrain tyres offer a balance between these extremes with a tread pattern more suited to regular off-road usage and are able to deal with tough situations like muddy and hilly terrain but are designed to be used on roads without excessive wear and fuel consumption. They are great all-rounders for any 4x4 owner who doesn't want to change their tyres between standard and recreational activities.

Need to change your tyres?

If your tyres are in need of a change, or whether you just want them inspected, get in touch with your local Kwik Fit.

Search For Tyres