Finding the quietest tires for your SUV can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With countless brands and models claiming to offer the smoothest and most silent ride, it’s tough to know which ones truly stand out. In this review, we’re going to break down five of the quietest SUV tires available so you can make an informed decision.
The Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive offers exceptional all-season performance with top-tier wet and winter traction, while the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 stands out as the quietest tire on the list, perfect for those prioritizing a serene driving experience. The Continental CrossContact LX25 balances excellent performance with comfort at a slightly lower price point. The Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax provides great value with its impressive durability and all-season capabilities, and the Cooper Endeavor Plus delivers reliable performance and quiet comfort at a budget-friendly price.
In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive, Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3, Continental CrossContact LX25, Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax, and Cooper Endeavor Plus. We’ll explore their key performance metrics, compare their comfort and noise levels, and help you decide which tire is the best fit for your SUV and driving needs.
Side-By-Side Comparison
Price Comparison
| Tire | Price Category |
|---|---|
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | Premium |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | Average |
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | Average |
| Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax | Average |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | Budget |
Wet Performance
| Tire | Hydroplaning Resistance | Wet Traction |
|---|---|---|
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.4 | 9.5 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 9.1 | 9.2 |
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | 9.1 | 9.2 |
| Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax | 9.0 | 9.0 |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | 8.9 | 8.9 |
Dry Performance
| Tire | Corner Stability | Dry Traction | Steering Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.5 | 9.6 | 9.4 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 9.3 | 9.5 | 9.2 |
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | 9.4 | 9.5 | 9.4 |
| Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax | 9.2 | 9.3 | 9.1 |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | 9.2 | 9.3 | 9.2 |
Winter/Snow Performance
| Tire | Light Snow Traction | Deep Snow Traction | Ice Traction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.4 | 9.1 | 8.7 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 8.8 | 8.2 | 7.9 |
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | 8.7 | 8.2 | 7.9 |
| Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax | 8.8 | 8.5 | 8.2 |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | 8.3 | 8.0 | 7.4 |
Comfort Performance
| Tire | Ride Quality | Noise |
|---|---|---|
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.3 | 9.0 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 9.2 | 8.9 |
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | 9.3 | 9.1 |
| Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax | 9.0 | 8.6 |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | 8.9 | 8.6 |
Treadwear Performance
| Tire | Treadwear |
|---|---|
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.2 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 9.1 |
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | 8.9 |
| Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax | 8.8 |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | 8.8 |
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
9.3 of 10
Wet Weather
9.5 of 10
Winter Weather
9.1 of 10
Tread Wear
9.3 of 10
Dry Weather
9.5 of 10
Ride Comfort
9.2 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 700
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 60,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.4 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.5 of 10
Cornering: 9.5 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.6 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.4 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 9.4 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 9.2 of 10
Ice Grip: 8.7 of 10
Comfort Level: 9.3 of 10
Road Noise: 9.1 of 10
The Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive stands out as a premium all-season SUV tire that delivers exceptional performance across all driving conditions. It excels in wet and winter conditions, making it an ideal choice for drivers who require reliable traction in challenging environments. With top-tier ratings in almost every category, this tire combines superior handling, comfort, and durability.
Key Strengths
- Wet Traction: Outstanding 9.5 rating, providing excellent grip and hydroplaning resistance in rainy conditions.
- Dry Performance: High 9.5 rating, ensuring exceptional stability and responsiveness on dry roads.
- Winter Capability: Excellent 9.1 rating for winter/snow performance, handling light and deep snow effectively.
- Comfort: Impressive 9.1 rating, offering a smooth and quiet ride with a noise rating of 9.0.
- Treadwear: Durable 9.2 rating, indicating long-lasting tread life.
Overall Performance
When compared to other top all-season SUV tires, the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive leads the pack with its exceptional performance metrics:
- Wet Traction: With a 9.5 rating, it surpasses competitors like the Continental CrossContact LX25 (9.1) and Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 (9.2), offering superior wet handling and hydroplaning resistance.
- Dry Performance: Matching its wet performance, the 9.5 dry rating ensures top-level cornering stability, dry traction, and steering response.
- Winter/Snow Performance: A 9.1 rating places it ahead of many all-season tires, providing reliable traction in light and deep snow, as well as on icy surfaces.
- Comfort and Noise: With a comfort rating of 9.1 and noise rating of 9.0, it offers a quiet and comfortable driving experience, ranking second in quietness among the top tires.
- Treadwear: A high 9.2 rating signifies excellent durability, promising extended tread life compared to other premium options.
Common Problems
Despite its outstanding performance, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
- Price Point: As a premium tire with top-tier performance, it comes at a higher cost compared to other options. Drivers on a tight budget may find it more expensive than average.
- Availability: Due to its popularity and premium status, it may not always be readily available in all sizes or regions.
Value Analysis
The Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive offers excellent value for drivers seeking uncompromised performance:
- Performance vs. Cost: While it is one of the more expensive options, its superior performance in wet, dry, and winter conditions justifies the investment for those prioritizing safety and handling.
- Longevity: The high treadwear rating of 9.2 means that the tire is built to last, potentially offsetting the higher initial cost over time.
- Comfort: Its high comfort and noise ratings add to the overall value, providing a pleasant driving experience.
Bottom Line
The Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive is an exceptional all-season SUV tire that delivers top-of-the-line performance in all weather conditions. Its superior wet and dry traction, impressive winter capabilities, and high comfort levels make it an ideal choice for drivers seeking the best in safety and performance. While it comes at a premium price, its durability and comprehensive performance features offer excellent value for those willing to invest in a high-quality tire.
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
9.0 of 10
Wet Weather
9.1 of 10
Winter Weather
8.3 of 10
Tread Wear
9.0 of 10
Dry Weather
9.4 of 10
Ride Comfort
9.2 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 800
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 70,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.1 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.2 of 10
Cornering: 9.4 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.5 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.3 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.7 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.2 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.9 of 10
Comfort Level: 9.3 of 10
Road Noise: 9.1 of 10
The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is the quietest tire on our list, boasting an impressive noise rating of 9.1. Designed for drivers who prioritize a peaceful and smooth ride, this tire doesn’t compromise on overall performance. Ranking third overall in performance metrics, it offers solid all-around capabilities, making it an ideal choice for those who desire quietness without sacrificing handling and traction.
Key Strengths
- Noise Control: Top-rated noise level of 9.1, ensuring a whisper-quiet driving experience.
- Dry Traction: Excellent 9.4 rating, providing outstanding grip and stability on dry roads.
- Wet Performance: Strong 9.2 rating, offering reliable traction and hydroplaning resistance in wet conditions.
- Comfort: High comfort rating of 9.2, combining noise control with a smooth ride quality of 9.3.
- Treadwear: Solid 8.9 rating, indicating good durability and long tread life.
Overall Performance
Compared to other top all-season SUV tires, the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 holds its own with impressive performance metrics:
- Noise Level: With a noise rating of 9.1, it is the quietest tire among its competitors, surpassing others like the Continental CrossContact LX25 (8.9) and Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive (9.0).
- Dry Performance: A 9.4 rating ensures excellent cornering stability and steering response, matching or exceeding other top-tier tires.
- Wet Traction: A strong 9.2 rating provides confidence-inspiring handling in rainy conditions.
- Comfort and Ride Quality: With a ride quality rating of 9.3, it offers a smooth driving experience, enhancing overall comfort.
- Winter/Snow Performance: An 8.3 rating means it handles light and moderate winter conditions adequately, though it may not excel in severe snow or ice compared to specialized winter tires.
Common Problems
While the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 excels in many areas, there are a few considerations:
- Winter Traction on Ice: With an ice traction rating of 7.9, performance on icy roads is acceptable but not exceptional. Drivers in areas with frequent icy conditions may need to be cautious.
- Treadwear Longevity: The treadwear rating of 8.9 is good but slightly lower than some competitors, suggesting it may wear a bit faster under heavy use.
- Price Point: Priced at a higher end, it may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Value Analysis
The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 offers substantial value for drivers prioritizing a quiet and comfortable ride:
- Performance vs. Cost: While it comes at a premium price, the exceptional noise control and overall performance may justify the cost for those valuing a serene driving experience.
- Comfort Benefits: Its top-tier comfort and noise ratings enhance driving pleasure, adding to its value proposition.
- Durability: A solid treadwear rating ensures reasonable longevity, though it may not last as long as some competitors with higher treadwear scores.
Bottom Line
The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is the ideal tire for drivers who prioritize a quiet, smooth ride without compromising on performance. With top noise ratings and strong performance in dry and wet conditions, it offers a balanced driving experience. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option and has moderate winter capabilities, its comfort and overall performance make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking peace and quiet on the road.
Continental CrossContact LX25
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
9.0 of 10
Wet Weather
9.1 of 10
Winter Weather
8.3 of 10
Tread Wear
9.1 of 10
Dry Weather
9.3 of 10
Ride Comfort
9.0 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 740
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: B
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 70,000 Miles (H- & T-Speed Rated)
6 Years / 65,000 Miles (V-Speed Rated)
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.1 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.2 of 10
Cornering: 9.3 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.4 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.2 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.8 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.2 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.8 of 10
Comfort Level: 9.2 of 10
Road Noise: 8.9 of 10
The Continental CrossContact LX25 is a high-performing all-season SUV tire that offers a superb balance between performance and comfort. Ranked second overall in performance metrics, it excels in both dry and wet conditions. With a noise rating of 8.9, it provides a quiet and smooth driving experience, making it an excellent choice for drivers seeking near-premium performance at a slightly lower cost.
Key Strengths
- Dry Traction: Impressive 9.3 rating, ensuring excellent grip and stability on dry roads.
- Wet Performance: Strong 9.1 rating, offering reliable traction and hydroplaning resistance in wet conditions.
- Comfort: High 9.0 rating, providing a smooth ride with a noise rating of 8.9.
- Treadwear: Durable 9.1 rating, indicating long-lasting tread life for extended use.
- Winter Capability: Good 8.3 rating, handling light and deep snow adequately.
Overall Performance
When compared to other top all-season SUV tires, the Continental CrossContact LX25 holds its own with strong performance across key metrics:
- Dry Performance: With a 9.3 rating, it offers exceptional cornering stability and steering response, closely matching premium competitors.
- Wet Traction: A 9.1 rating places it among the top performers, providing confidence-inspiring handling in rainy conditions.
- Comfort and Noise: A comfort rating of 9.0 and noise rating of 8.9 ensure a pleasant and quiet driving experience, ranking third in quietness among the top tires.
- Treadwear: The 9.1 rating signifies excellent durability, promising a long service life.
- Winter/Snow Performance: An 8.3 rating means it handles winter conditions reasonably well, though not as exceptionally as some specialized winter tires.
Common Problems
While the Continental CrossContact LX25 performs admirably, there are a few areas to consider:
- Ice Traction: With an ice traction rating of 7.9, performance on icy roads is adequate but not outstanding. Drivers in regions with severe ice conditions might consider this.
- Price Point: While more affordable than some premium options, it is still priced higher than some budget-friendly alternatives.
Value Analysis
The Continental CrossContact LX25 offers excellent value for drivers seeking high performance without the premium price tag:
- Performance vs. Cost: It delivers near-premium performance levels at a slightly reduced cost, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious drivers who don’t want to compromise on quality.
- Longevity: A high treadwear rating ensures that the tire will last, providing long-term value.
- Comfort: Its strong comfort and noise ratings enhance the overall driving experience, adding to its value proposition.
Bottom Line
The Continental CrossContact LX25 is an excellent all-season SUV tire that combines high performance with comfort and durability. It offers outstanding dry and wet traction, a quiet ride, and long tread life, all at a price point that is more accessible than some premium models. This tire is ideal for drivers seeking a balanced, high-quality tire that delivers a peaceful driving experience without the premium cost.
Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.8 of 10
Wet Weather
8.9 of 10
Winter Weather
8.4 of 10
Tread Wear
8.7 of 10
Dry Weather
9.1 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.7 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 640
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 60,000 miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.9 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.9 of 10
Cornering: 9.1 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.3 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.0 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.8 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.4 of 10
Ice Grip: 8.0 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.9 of 10
Road Noise: 8.4 of 10
The Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax is a well-rounded all-season SUV tire that offers excellent value within the average price range. With a noise rating of 8.6, it provides a quiet and comfortable ride. While it may not outperform premium options in every category, it delivers impressive overall performance, making it a great choice for drivers seeking a balanced tire with durability and all-season capabilities.
Key Strengths
- Dry Traction: Excellent 9.2 rating, ensuring solid grip and stability on dry roads.
- Wet Performance: Strong 9.0 rating, offering reliable traction and hydroplaning resistance in wet conditions.
- Winter Capability: Good 8.4 rating, handling light and deep snow effectively.
- Comfort: High ride quality rating of 9.0, providing a smooth driving experience with a noise rating of 8.6.
- Treadwear: Durable 8.8 rating, indicating good longevity.
Overall Performance
When compared to other all-season SUV tires, the Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax offers competitive performance across key metrics:
- Dry Performance: With a 9.2 rating, it matches or closely follows higher-priced competitors in dry traction and corner stability.
- Wet Traction: A 9.0 rating places it among the better performers, providing confidence in rainy conditions.
- Winter/Snow Performance: An 8.4 rating indicates it handles winter conditions well, surpassing some competitors in this category.
- Comfort and Noise: A ride quality rating of 9.0 and noise rating of 8.6 ensure a comfortable and quiet ride, suitable for most drivers.
- Treadwear: The 8.8 rating signifies good durability, offering long-term value.
Common Problems
While the Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax performs admirably, there are a few considerations:
- Noise Level: With a noise rating of 8.6, it is quieter than many but not as quiet as the top performers like the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3.
- Ice Traction: An ice traction rating of 8.2 is good but may not be sufficient for extreme icy conditions.
Value Analysis
The Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax offers excellent value for drivers seeking quality performance without a premium price tag:
- Performance vs. Cost: It delivers strong performance in dry, wet, and winter conditions at an average price point, making it a cost-effective choice.
- Durability: A solid treadwear rating ensures longevity, enhancing its value over time.
- Comfort: High ride quality adds to the overall value, providing a pleasant driving experience.
Bottom Line
The Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax is an excellent all-season SUV tire for drivers seeking a balanced combination of performance, comfort, and value. It offers reliable traction in various conditions, a comfortable ride, and good durability, all at a reasonable price point. While it may not be the quietest tire on the market, its overall performance makes it a compelling option for those looking for quality without the premium cost.
Cooper Endeavor Plus
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.7 of 10
Wet Weather
8.9 of 10
Winter Weather
7.9 of 10
Tread Wear
8.8 of 10
Dry Weather
9.2 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.7 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 680
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: B
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 65,000 miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.9 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.9 of 10
Cornering: 9.2 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.3 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.2 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.3 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 7.9 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.4 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.9 of 10
Road Noise: 8.6 of 10
The Cooper Endeavor Plus is our budget-friendly pick that doesn’t skimp on performance or comfort. With a noise rating of 8.6, it matches more expensive options like the Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax, providing a quiet and comfortable ride. This tire focuses on affordability while delivering reliable performance in both dry and wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for drivers seeking value without sacrificing quality.
Key Strengths
- Dry Traction: Excellent 9.2 rating, ensuring strong grip and stability on dry roads.
- Wet Performance: Solid 8.9 rating, offering dependable traction and hydroplaning resistance in wet conditions.
- Comfort: High ride quality rating of 8.9, providing a smooth driving experience with a noise rating of 8.6.
- Treadwear: Durable 8.8 rating, indicating good longevity for extended use.
- Affordability: Offers great value without compromising essential performance features.
Overall Performance
When compared to other all-season SUV tires, the Cooper Endeavor Plus holds its own, especially considering its budget-friendly price:
- Dry Performance: A 9.2 rating places it among higher-rated tires, ensuring reliable handling and stability.
- Wet Traction: An 8.9 rating provides confident performance in rainy conditions, though slightly behind premium competitors.
- Comfort and Noise: With a ride quality rating of 8.9 and noise rating of 8.6, it offers a comfortable and quiet ride comparable to more expensive options.
- Winter/Snow Performance: A 7.9 rating indicates it handles light winter conditions adequately but may not be suitable for severe snow or ice.
- Treadwear: An 8.8 rating signifies good durability, offering long-term value despite the lower price point.
Common Problems
While the Cooper Endeavor Plus offers excellent value, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Winter Traction on Ice: With an ice traction rating of 7.4, performance on icy roads is modest. Drivers in regions with frequent ice should exercise caution.
- Deep Snow Performance: A deep snow traction rating of 8.0 suggests it may struggle in heavier snowfall compared to higher-rated tires.
Value Analysis
The Cooper Endeavor Plus provides outstanding value for budget-conscious drivers:
- Performance vs. Cost: It delivers solid performance in key areas at a lower price, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money without sacrificing essential features.
- Comfort Benefits: Comparable comfort and noise ratings to more expensive tires enhance its appeal.
- Durability: Good treadwear rating ensures the tire will last, further enhancing its cost-effectiveness.
Bottom Line
The Cooper Endeavor Plus is a fantastic option for drivers seeking a balance of affordability and performance. It offers reliable dry and wet traction, a comfortable and quiet ride, and good tread life—all at a budget-friendly price. While it may not excel in severe winter conditions, its overall value makes it an excellent choice for those looking to get the most out of their tire investment without breaking the bank.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
- Testing Crossover/SUV and Grand Touring All-Season Tires – Tire Rack
- Want quiet tires? Look for these features – Les Schwab
Final Thoughts
When it comes to finding the quietest tires for your SUV, each of these five options brings something unique to the table.
- The Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive tops the list with its exceptional all-around performance, making it ideal for drivers who demand the best in all conditions.
- The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is the go-to choice for drivers who prioritize a whisper-quiet ride without compromising overall performance.
- The Continental CrossContact LX25 offers near-premium performance with excellent comfort, perfect for those seeking high quality at a slightly lower cost.
- For those looking for a balanced tire with durability and value, the Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax is a solid pick.
- While the Cooper Endeavor Plus provides reliable performance and quiet comfort for budget-conscious drivers.
Whether you value top-tier performance, superior quietness, durability, or affordability, one of these tires is sure to meet your needs. Compare their strengths to find the perfect match for your SUV and enjoy a smoother, quieter ride.
Good luck and happy motoring.
