The new BF Goodrich Trail-Terrain T/A + tire targets crossover owners seeking off-road capability without giving up on-road comfort. Released in June as an update to the 2021 model, it suits vehicles like the Subaru Crosstrek, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4. Drivers who need better traction for forest roads and dispersed camping but avoid extreme terrain will find it useful.
What sets the Trail-Terrain T/A + apart
The tire’s rubber compound and tread design reduce “cut-and-chip” damage common on gravel roads. Small cuts in the rubber often lead to larger tread issues over time. BF Goodrich states the new compound improves wet-weather grip by 10% over the original Trail-Terrain while keeping its Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake rating for winter use.
Durability stands out. The company reports the T/A + lasts 25% longer than its predecessor and includes a 65,000-mile warranty, up from 60,000 miles. A 5% reduction in rolling resistance helps fuel efficiency, addressing a frequent complaint about all-terrain tires on daily drivers.
Testing in Colorado showed strong performance. On highways at 75 mph, the tires behaved like standard street tires, with no drag or instability. Rough dirt roads provided secure traction over washboard surfaces and rocky switchbacks.
Who it’s for—and who it’s not
The Trail-Terrain T/A + competes in a niche category of crossover-specific all-terrain tires. Rivals include the Cooper Discoverer Road+Trail AT and Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT. BF Goodrich’s model stands out as the newest, with refinements balancing off-road performance and on-road handling.
Related: Hiker Survives Brutal Colorado Mountain Ordeal
Drivers who mostly stay on pavement but occasionally drive on dirt or snow will appreciate its quiet ride and highway stability. A tester installed a set on a Toyota Sienna minivan and reported no concerns during camping trips or ski outings. The same set handled a 2,000-mile road trip comfortably.
It isn’t designed for serious off-roading. Truck or body-on-frame SUV owners needing rock-crawling ability should consider a more aggressive tire like BF Goodrich’s KO3. For crossover owners wanting extra confidence on rough roads without the drawbacks of traditional all-terrain tires, this model offers a compromise.
The tire’s design reflects that balance. Its chunkier tread blocks create a rugged look without the oversized lugs of dedicated off-road tires.
For those planning extended trips, durability matters.
