You’re here because you need a tough, reliable tire for your off-road escapades. The BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 and Cooper Evolution M/T both promise great performance, but which one should you pick?
The BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 is better suited for extreme off-road conditions like mud and rocks, while the Cooper Evolution M/T provides excellent traction in dirt and mud but may wear out faster.
In this article, we will dive into the key features, performance metrics, and pros and cons of both the BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 and the Cooper Evolution M/T. We’ll also compare them against other top competitors in the market to give you a comprehensive overview.
BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.5 of 10
Wet Weather
8.5 of 10
Winter Weather
8.0 of 10
All Terrain
9.5 of 10
Tread Wear
8.2 of 10
Dry Weather
8.9 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.0 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: N/A
UTQG Traction Rating: N/A
UTQG Temperature Rating: N/A
Mileage Warranty
None
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Dirt Grip: 9.6 of 10
Mud Grip: 9.7 of 10
Sand Grip: 9.1 of 10
Rock Grip: 9.5 of 10
Hydroplaning: 8.5 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.4 of 10
Cornering: 8.7 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.1 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.9 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.5 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.7 of 10
Ice Grip: 6.9 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.4 of 10
Road Noise: 7.7 of 10
The BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 is designed for off-road enthusiasts who need a tire that can handle extreme conditions. This tire excels in rugged terrains, providing exceptional traction on dirt, mud, sand, and rocks. Its aggressive tread design and robust construction make it a popular choice among off-roaders who demand reliability and performance.
Key Features
- Off-Road Traction: The KM3 is built to tackle tough off-road conditions. Its advanced Krawl-TEK compound enhances grip on rocks and slick surfaces, while the Terrain-Attack tread design offers superior traction in mud and loose soil.
- Durability: With CoreGard Max Technology, the KM3 is designed to resist punctures and splits, ensuring longevity even in harsh environments. The tire’s thick sidewall shields it from sharp rocks and other off-road hazards.
- Mud Performance: The tire’s Mud-Phobic Bars help to clear packed mud, maintaining traction in deep and sticky conditions. This feature ensures that the tire remains effective even in the most challenging muddy terrains.
- Comfort: Despite its aggressive design, the KM3 provides a relatively smooth and comfortable ride, making it suitable for both off-road adventures and everyday driving.
Performance Breakdown
Off-Road (9.5)
- Dirt: 9.6
- Sand: 9.1
- Mud: 9.7
- Rock: 9.5
The KM3 excels in off-road conditions, particularly in mud and rocky terrains. Its high scores in these areas make it a reliable choice for serious off-road enthusiasts.
Wet Performance (8.5)
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.5
- Wet Traction: 8.4
While the KM3 performs decently in wet conditions, it doesn’t match the performance of some competitors. It’s like wearing boots that grip well in most situations but might slip a bit on slick surfaces.
Dry Performance (8.9)
- Corner Stability: 8.7
- Dry Traction: 9.1
- Steering Response: 8.9
On dry roads, the KM3 delivers solid performance. Its stability and traction ensure a controlled and enjoyable driving experience, akin to driving a well-tuned sports car on a dry track.
Winter/Snow Performance (8.0)
- Light Snow Traction: 8.5
- Deep Snow Traction: 8.7
- Ice Traction: 6.9
The KM3 handles light and deep snow reasonably well but struggles on ice. Think of it as wearing decent winter boots – good for snow but not great on icy sidewalks.
Comfort (8.0)
- Ride Quality: 8.4
- Noise: 7.7
The KM3 offers a comfortable ride with moderate noise levels. It’s like driving with a slight hum in the background, noticeable but not overly bothersome.
Treadwear (8.2)
The KM3 is built to last, offering good tread life for an off-road tire. It’s a durable choice, providing value over the long haul.
Pros
- Outstanding off-road traction, especially in mud and rocks
- Durable construction with excellent puncture resistance
- Comfortable ride for an aggressive off-road tire
Cons
- Wet performance could be better
- Struggles on icy surfaces
Cooper Evolution M/T
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.2 of 10
Wet Weather
8.3 of 10
Winter Weather
8.2 of 10
All Terrain
9.4 of 10
Tread Wear
6.6 of 10
Dry Weather
9.0 of 10
Ride Comfort
7.7 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: N/A
UTQG Traction Rating: N/A
UTQG Temperature Rating: N/A
Mileage Warranty
None
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Dirt Grip: 9.8 of 10
Mud Grip: 9.6 of 10
Sand Grip: 8.9 of 10
Rock Grip: 9.3 of 10
Hydroplaning: 8.3 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.4 of 10
Cornering: 8.8 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.3 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.7 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.7 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.3 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.5 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.3 of 10
Road Noise: 7.2 of 10
The Cooper Evolution M/T is a tire that promises to deliver when the going gets tough. Known for its rugged performance and durability, this tire is built for off-road enthusiasts who need reliability in extreme conditions. Whether you’re tackling muddy trails, sandy dunes, or rocky paths, the Evolution M/T aims to keep you moving forward with confidence.
Key Features
- Off-Road Traction: The Evolution M/T boasts a bold tread design that maximizes traction in mud, sand, and rocks. Its large, aggressive tread blocks and deep voids help to maintain grip and keep you moving in even the toughest conditions.
- Durability: This tire features a durable construction with Armor-Tek3 technology, which provides added protection against cuts, chips, and punctures. The robust sidewalls are designed to withstand harsh off-road environments.
- Mud Performance: The Evolution M/T is equipped with mud scoops to expel mud and debris, ensuring that the tire maintains traction and doesn’t get bogged down. This feature is essential for maintaining performance in muddy conditions.
- Comfort: Despite its aggressive tread, the Evolution M/T is designed to offer a smooth and quiet ride. This makes it a versatile choice for both off-road adventures and everyday driving.
Performance Breakdown
Off-Road (9.4)
- Dirt: 9.8
- Sand: 8.9
- Mud: 9.6
- Rock: 9.3
The Evolution M/T excels in off-road conditions, particularly in dirt and mud. Its high scores in these areas make it a reliable choice for serious off-road enthusiasts.
Wet Performance (8.3)
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.3
- Wet Traction: 8.4
The Evolution M/T performs decently in wet conditions, though it doesn’t lead the pack. It’s like wearing sturdy boots that work well in most situations but might feel a bit slippery on slick surfaces.
Dry Performance (9.0)
- Corner Stability: 8.8
- Dry Traction: 9.3
- Steering Response: 8.7
On dry roads, the Evolution M/T delivers solid performance. Its stability and traction ensure a controlled and enjoyable driving experience, similar to driving a well-tuned vehicle that responds smoothly to every turn.
Winter/Snow Performance (8.2)
- Light Snow Traction: 8.7
- Deep Snow Traction: 8.3
- Ice Traction: 7.5
The Evolution M/T handles light snow reasonably well but struggles a bit more with deep snow and ice. Think of it as wearing decent winter shoes – good for moderate snow conditions but not the best for icy surfaces.
Comfort (7.7)
- Ride Quality: 8.3
- Noise: 7.2
The Evolution M/T offers a comfortable ride but can be a bit noisy. It’s like driving with a background hum that’s noticeable but not overly disruptive.
Treadwear (6.6)
The Evolution M/T’s treadwear rating is lower compared to some competitors, which might mean it wears out faster. It’s a trade-off for its aggressive off-road capabilities.
Pros
- Excellent off-road traction, especially in dirt and mud
- Durable construction with good puncture resistance
- Comfortable ride for an aggressive off-road tire
Cons
- Wet performance could be better
- Lower treadwear rating
Comparative Analysis
When choosing the right tire for your off-road adventures, the details make all the difference. Both the BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 and the Cooper Evolution M/T offer robust features for serious off-road enthusiasts, but their strengths cater to slightly different driving preferences and priorities. Let’s break it down to help you decide which tire might be the best fit for your ride.
Off-Road Capabilities
| BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 | Cooper Evolution M/T | |
|---|---|---|
| Dirt | 9.6 | 9.8 |
| Sand | 9.1 | 8.9 |
| Mud | 9.7 | 9.6 |
| Rock | 9.5 | 9.3 |
The BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 and the Cooper Evolution M/T both shine in off-road conditions, but the Cooper Evolution M/T takes a slight lead in dirt performance. However, the KM3 matches up closely in mud and rock traction, making it a strong contender for mixed-terrain adventures.
Performance in Wet Conditions
| BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 | Cooper Evolution M/T | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydroplaning Resistance | 8.5 | 8.3 |
| Wet Traction | 8.4 | 8.4 |
Both tires perform similarly in wet conditions, with the KM3 having a slight edge in hydroplaning resistance. This makes it slightly more reliable in heavy rain, though both tires offer adequate wet traction.
Dry Traction and Handling
| BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 | Cooper Evolution M/T | |
|---|---|---|
| Corner Stability | 8.7 | 8.8 |
| Dry Traction | 9.1 | 9.3 |
| Steering Response | 8.9 | 8.7 |
Both tires perform admirably on dry roads, but the Cooper Evolution M/T edges out slightly with a higher dry traction score. This makes it a better choice for those who want a bit more grip and stability on dry surfaces.
Comfort and Noise
| BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 | Cooper Evolution M/T | |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Quality | 8.4 | 8.3 |
| Noise | 7.7 | 7.2 |
On the comfort front, the KM3 provides a slightly better ride quality and lower noise levels compared to the Evolution M/T. If you value a quieter and smoother ride, the KM3 has a slight edge.
Treadwear and Durability
| BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 | Cooper Evolution M/T | |
|---|---|---|
| Treadwear | 8.2 | 6.6 |
The KM3 scores higher in treadwear, suggesting a longer lifespan compared to the Evolution M/T. If durability and longevity are your priorities, the KM3 is the better choice.
The Verdict
- Choose BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 if: You prioritize top-notch performance in off-road conditions, particularly in mud and rocks. This tire is ideal for drivers who need durability and a slightly more comfortable and quieter ride.
- Opt for Cooper Evolution M/T if: You need excellent dirt and mud traction and don’t mind a bit more noise and potentially shorter tread life. This tire suits drivers who tackle tough terrains and want strong off-road capabilities without breaking the bank.
Other Competitors in the Market
While the BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 and the Cooper Evolution M/T are top contenders, the tire market is bustling with alternatives that might better align with specific needs or budgets. Let’s explore a few other players in the Off-Road Maximum Traction Truck tire category and see how they stack up.
Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003
Performance Ratings:
- Offroad: 9.5 (Dirt: 9.7, Sand: 9.2, Mud: 9.6, Rock: 9.5)
- Wet: 8.9 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.0, Wet Traction: 8.8)
- Dry: 9.1 (Corner Stability: 9.1, Dry Traction: 9.4, Steering Response: 8.9)
- Comfort: 8.2 (Ride Quality: 8.5, Noise: 7.9)
- Treadwear: 8.8
Pros:
- Exceptional off-road traction in dirt and mud.
- Strong wet performance with excellent hydroplaning resistance.
- Solid dry traction and corner stability.
Cons:
- Slightly noisier ride compared to some competitors.
Ideal Usage: Perfect for off-road enthusiasts who demand high performance in various terrains and also need reliable wet traction for occasional on-road driving.
Firestone Destination M/T2
Performance Ratings:
- Offroad: 9.4 (Dirt: 9.5, Sand: 9.2, Mud: 9.3, Rock: 9.4)
- Wet: 8.5 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.6, Wet Traction: 8.4)
- Dry: 8.8 (Corner Stability: 8.6, Dry Traction: 9.3, Steering Response: 8.6)
- Comfort: 8.1 (Ride Quality: 8.5, Noise: 7.6)
- Treadwear: 8.3
Pros:
- Excellent off-road capabilities, particularly in dirt and rocks.
- Good wet traction and hydroplaning resistance.
- Durable with a comfortable ride.
Cons:
- Lower wet performance compared to some other options.
- Slightly noisier on the road.
Ideal Usage: Ideal for those who need a robust off-road tire with strong performance in dirt and rocky terrains, and decent on-road comfort.
General Grabber X3
Performance Ratings:
- Offroad: 9.2 (Dirt: 9.5, Sand: 9.1, Mud: 9.3, Rock: 9.1)
- Wet: 8.7 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.8, Wet Traction: 8.6)
- Dry: 8.8 (Corner Stability: 8.7, Dry Traction: 9.2, Steering Response: 8.5)
- Comfort: 8.0 (Ride Quality: 8.3, Noise: 7.7)
- Treadwear: 8.5
Pros:
- Strong off-road performance in dirt and mud.
- Good wet performance with reliable hydroplaning resistance.
- Decent dry traction and ride quality.
Cons:
- Lower comfort and higher noise levels on the road.
Ideal Usage: Suitable for off-road enthusiasts who require solid performance in various terrains and good wet handling, while accepting some trade-offs in on-road comfort.
Each of these alternatives offers a unique set of features that cater to different driving styles and priorities:
- For Balanced Value and Performance: The Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003 strikes a good balance, offering exceptional off-road traction and reliable wet performance without compromising on comfort too much. It’s ideal for those who drive in varying conditions but demand top-tier off-road capabilities.
- For Robust Off-Road Adventures: The Firestone Destination M/T2 excels in tough off-road conditions, especially dirt and rocky terrains. It’s perfect for drivers who need a durable and comfortable tire for off-road adventures.
- For Versatile Off-Road Performance: The General Grabber X3 provides strong off-road performance across various terrains with good wet handling, making it a solid choice for drivers who prioritize versatility in off-road conditions.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires:
- BFGoodrich Product Page
- Cooper Product Page
- Off-Road Maximum Traction Truck Tire Consumer Ratings – Tire Rack
Final Thoughts
The BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 stands out for its exceptional off-road performance, particularly in mud and rocky terrains. Its robust construction ensures durability and reliability in the toughest conditions. However, it does have some drawbacks, including less effective performance on icy roads and noticeable road noise.
On the other hand, the Cooper Evolution M/T offers strong traction in dirt and mud, making it a formidable competitor. It also provides good dry traction, but it tends to wear out faster and can be noisier than the KM3.
If your adventures frequently take you through extreme off-road conditions, the BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 is the better choice due to its superior off-road capabilities and durability. However, if you are looking for a tire with excellent dirt and mud traction and can handle the faster wear and increased noise, the Cooper Evolution M/T is a solid option.
Good luck and happy motoring.
