Looking for a premium all-season tire for your SUV that offers strong performance across the board? The Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra could be the right fit. But does it truly deliver on its promises of versatility and comfort, or do its limitations make it a less appealing option in this crowded category?
The Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra has excellent wet and dry traction, a firm yet stable ride, and reasonable winter capability in light snow. However, it falls short in deeper snow and icy conditions and has noticeable road noise at highway speeds, which could be a drawback for drivers prioritizing a quiet, smooth experience.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra. You’ll see how it compares side-by-side with recommended alternatives like the premium-priced Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive, the average-priced Continental CrossContact LX25, and the budget-friendly Cooper Endeavor Plus. We’ll also address common issues mentioned by owners and provide a detailed performance breakdown to help you decide if the Alenza AS Ultra is the right choice for your SUV.
Side-By-Side Comparison
Price Comparison
| Tire | Price Category |
|---|---|
| Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra | Premium |
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | Premium |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | Average |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | Budget |
Wet Performance
| Tire | Hydroplaning Resistance | Wet Traction |
|---|---|---|
| Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra | 8.9 | 9.0 |
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.4 | 9.5 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 9.1 | 9.2 |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | 8.9 | 8.9 |
Dry Performance
| Tire | Corner Stability | Dry Traction | Steering Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra | 9.1 | 9.3 | 9.1 |
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.5 | 9.6 | 9.4 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 9.3 | 9.5 | 9.2 |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | 9.2 | 9.3 | 9.2 |
Winter/Snow Performance
| Tire | Light Snow Traction | Deep Snow Traction | Ice Traction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra | 8.2 | 7.8 | 7.5 |
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.4 | 9.1 | 8.7 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 8.8 | 8.2 | 7.9 |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | 8.3 | 8.0 | 7.4 |
Comfort Performance
| Tire | Ride Quality | Noise |
|---|---|---|
| Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra | 8.7 | 8.3 |
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.3 | 9.0 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 9.2 | 8.9 |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | 8.9 | 8.6 |
Treadwear Performance
| Tire | Treadwear |
|---|---|
| Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra | 8.1 |
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.2 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 9.1 |
| Cooper Endeavor Plus | 8.8 |
Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.5 of 10
Wet Weather
8.9 of 10
Winter Weather
7.8 of 10
Tread Wear
8.1 of 10
Dry Weather
9.2 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.5 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 800
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: B
Mileage Warranty
5 Years / 80,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.9 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.0 of 10
Cornering: 9.1 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.3 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.1 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.2 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 7.9 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.5 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.7 of 10
Road Noise: 8.4 of 10
The Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra aims to deliver premium all-season performance for SUVs and crossovers. It’s tailored for drivers seeking reliable handling, comfort, and versatility in mild weather conditions. While it promises solid performance in dry and wet environments, it has some areas where it falls short, especially in harsher climates or on rough roads.
Dry Performance
Rating: Above Average
The Alenza AS Ultra performs well in dry conditions, with strong traction and responsive steering. It provides reliable corner stability and predictable handling, making it a good choice for daily commutes and highway travel. However, it doesn’t stand out significantly compared to other premium options in this category, leaving room for improvement in overall grip.
Wet Performance
Rating: Average
While the Alenza AS Ultra offers decent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, it doesn’t quite match the performance of some of its competitors, like the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive. Drivers have noted its reliability in light rain, but cornering stability and water evacuation under heavier rainfall could be better.
Ride Comfort and Noise Level
Rating: Average
Comfort and noise levels are areas where the Alenza AS Ultra struggles to impress. While the ride is stable and firm, some drivers have reported noticeable road noise at highway speeds, which could detract from the overall driving experience. For those seeking a quiet, plush ride, this tire may not meet expectations.
Winter/Snow Performance
Rating: Below Average
The Alenza AS Ultra handles light snow reasonably well but struggles in deeper snow and icy conditions. Its ice traction score of 7.5 highlights its limitations in severe winter weather. Drivers in regions with harsh winters should strongly consider dedicated winter tires for better safety and performance.
Treadwear and Longevity
Rating: Average
With a treadwear score of 8.1, the Alenza AS Ultra offers adequate longevity but doesn’t excel in this category. While some drivers report satisfactory mileage, others have noted faster-than-expected tread wear, particularly under heavier use. Regular maintenance is crucial to maximizing its lifespan.
Pros
- Strong dry performance
- Responsive steering
- Stable handling
Cons
- Noticeable road noise at highway speeds
- Limited ice and deep snow traction
- Adequate but unremarkable treadwear
- Doesn’t outperform competitors in wet conditions
Value Analysis
Rating: Average
The Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra offers solid performance in dry and mild wet conditions, but its drawbacks, particularly in comfort and winter capabilities, make it less competitive for its premium price point. Compared to higher-rated alternatives like the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive, it doesn’t deliver the same level of value.
However, for drivers in moderate climates who prioritize dry performance and stability, the Alenza AS Ultra remains a viable option.
The Verdict
The Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra is a dependable tire for mild climates and regular driving needs. It excels in dry conditions and provides stable handling but falls short in terms of road noise and winter performance.
If you’re looking for a more well-rounded option, consider alternatives like the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive for premium performance, the Continental CrossContact LX25 for balanced value, or the Cooper Endeavor Plus for a budget-friendly option.
While it has its strengths, the Alenza AS Ultra may not justify its premium price tag for drivers seeking top-tier all-season performance.
Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra Problems
While the Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra is a solid performer in many areas, it’s not without its share of potential issues. Some drivers have raised concerns about road noise, winter traction, and treadwear longevity. These problems, while not universal, are worth considering before making a purchase.
Understanding these potential drawbacks can help you decide whether this tire aligns with your needs or if one of our recommended alternatives might be a better fit.
Winter Performance
The Alenza AS Ultra struggles in harsh winter conditions. While it handles light snow reasonably well, its performance on icy roads is below average, with an ice traction rating of 7.5 out of 10. Drivers in regions with frequent snowstorms or icy roads may find this tire less reliable and should consider dedicated winter tires for better safety.
Ride Comfort and Noise
Road noise has been a common complaint, especially at highway speeds. The firmer ride quality, while stable, doesn’t absorb bumps as well as some other tires in its class. If a quiet, smooth ride is a top priority, this could be a drawback.
Treadwear and Longevity
With a treadwear rating of 8.1, the Alenza AS Ultra falls short of some competitors in its premium category. Some drivers have reported faster-than-expected tread wear, particularly under heavier use or on poorly maintained roads. Proper tire maintenance, like regular rotations and keeping alignment in check, is crucial to maximizing its lifespan, but even with care, it may not last as long as other premium options.
Wet Performance
Although it performs decently in wet conditions, the Alenza AS Ultra doesn’t outshine its competitors. With a hydroplaning resistance score of 8.9, it lags behind options like the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive, which offers superior wet traction and water evacuation. Drivers in areas with heavy rainfall might prefer a tire with stronger wet-weather handling.
The Bottomline
While the Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra is a dependable tire in many ways, it’s not perfect. Road noise, limited winter capabilities, and moderate treadwear longevity are areas of concern. If these issues give you pause, consider exploring alternatives like the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive for better wet and winter performance, the Continental CrossContact LX25 for balanced value, or the Cooper Endeavor Plus for a budget-friendly option.
Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra Alternatives
While the Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra is a good tire overall, some drivers have raised concerns about its road noise, winter performance, and treadwear longevity. If any of these issues seem worrisome, consider exploring our recommended alternatives, which address some of these shortcomings while offering unique advantages.
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive
Overall: A premium all-season tire designed for SUVs and crossovers, the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive stands out for its excellent wet and winter performance. It outclasses the Alenza AS Ultra in key areas such as wet traction, hydroplaning resistance, and winter handling.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Top-tier wet traction and hydroplaning resistance with scores of 9.5 and 9.4, significantly outperforming the Alenza’s scores of 9.0 and 8.9.
- Dry Weather: Excellent dry traction and corner stability with a dry traction score of 9.6, edging out the Alenza’s 9.3.
- Winter Performance: Exceptional in snow and ice, with a winter performance rating of 9.1, compared to the Alenza’s 7.8.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Provides a comfortable ride with minimal noise and boasts excellent treadwear at 9.2, making it a great long-term investment.
Continental CrossContact LX25
Overall: Positioned as an average-priced alternative, the Continental CrossContact LX25 offers a balanced mix of performance, comfort, and durability. While its winter capabilities are modest, it surpasses the Alenza AS Ultra in ride comfort and treadwear.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Strong wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, with scores of 9.2 and 9.1, closely matching the Alenza.
- Dry Weather: Excellent dry traction at 9.5, slightly outperforming the Alenza’s 9.3.
- Winter Performance: Decent in light snow but not ideal for ice or deep snow, with a winter rating of 8.3, slightly better than the Alenza’s 7.8.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Offers a smoother, quieter ride and better treadwear with a score of 9.1, surpassing the Alenza’s 8.1.
Cooper Endeavor Plus
Overall: For budget-conscious drivers, the Cooper Endeavor Plus delivers solid all-around performance at a much lower price point. While it doesn’t match the premium features of the Alenza AS Ultra, it performs well in everyday driving conditions.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Reliable wet traction and hydroplaning resistance with scores of 8.9 each, comparable to the Alenza in mild conditions.
- Dry Weather: Strong dry traction and handling, with scores of 9.3 and 9.2, matching the Alenza’s performance.
- Winter Performance: Handles light snow adequately but struggles with ice, with a winter rating of 7.9, slightly better than the Alenza’s 7.8.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Decent comfort and treadwear at 8.8, making it a cost-effective alternative for drivers on a budget.
Each of these alternatives addresses specific concerns with the Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra:
- The Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive is an excellent choice for superior wet and winter performance.
- The Continental CrossContact LX25 offers a great balance of comfort, durability, and dry handling.
- The Cooper Endeavor Plus provides a budget-friendly option with dependable all-around performance.
Depending on your driving conditions and priorities, these tires can be strong alternatives to the Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra.
What Are SUV Touring All-Season Tires?
SUV Touring All-Season tires are specifically engineered to meet the diverse needs of modern SUV drivers, providing a balanced blend of performance, comfort, and durability throughout the year. These tires are designed to handle a variety of road conditions, making them an ideal choice for those who seek versatility without compromising on safety or driving experience.
Key Features and Benefits:
- Versatile Performance:
- All-Weather Capability: Engineered to perform reliably in dry, wet, and light snowy conditions, ensuring consistent traction and handling regardless of the season.
- Enhanced Traction: Advanced tread patterns and rubber compounds improve grip on both highways and city streets, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and enhancing overall stability.
- Comfort and Quietness:
- Smooth Ride: Designed with comfort in mind, these tires absorb road imperfections, providing a quieter and more comfortable driving experience.
- Noise Reduction Technology: Incorporates features that minimize road noise, making long drives more pleasant and less fatiguing.
- Durability and Longevity:
- Extended Tread Life: Built to withstand the demands of daily driving, SUV Touring All-Season tires offer longer tread life, delivering excellent value over time.
- Robust Construction: Reinforced sidewalls and durable materials enhance resistance to punctures and impacts, ensuring the tires maintain their integrity when supporting heavier vehicles.
- Fuel Efficiency:
- Low Rolling Resistance: Optimized to reduce energy loss as the tire rolls, contributing to better fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
- Responsive Handling:
- Precision Steering: Provides accurate and responsive steering feedback, allowing drivers to navigate curves and turns with confidence.
- Stability Control: Enhances vehicle stability during sudden maneuvers or adverse conditions, promoting safer driving.
Ideal For:
- Daily Commuters: Perfect for those who drive frequently on highways and urban roads, offering a smooth and efficient ride.
- Family Vehicles: Suitable for SUVs that transport families, ensuring safety and comfort for all passengers.
Choosing SUV Touring All-Season tires means investing in a tire that delivers dependable performance, exceptional comfort, and long-lasting durability, all while adapting seamlessly to the changing seasons.
Alternative Tire Types for SUV Owners
In addition to SUV Touring All-Season tires, SUV owners have several other tire options to consider based on their driving needs and preferences. These alternatives cater to different performance aspects, ensuring that you can find the perfect match for your vehicle and lifestyle.
Grand Touring All-Season Tires
- Description: Primarily marketed for sedans, Grand Touring All-Season tires offer superior comfort, quietness, and extended tread life. They provide excellent handling and stability on both dry and wet roads.
- Benefits for SUVs:
- Enhanced Comfort: Smooth and quiet ride quality ideal for long drives and daily commuting.
- Long Tread Life: Durable construction ensures longevity, providing excellent value over time.
- Reliable Performance: Consistent traction and handling in various weather conditions.
- Considerations: Ensure compatibility with your SUV’s size and load requirements, as these tires are optimized for lighter vehicles.
Standard Touring All-Season Tires
- Description: Designed mainly for sedans, Standard Touring All-Season tires focus on delivering a balanced performance with good traction in multiple conditions while maintaining affordability.
- Benefits for SUVs:
- Cost-Effective: More affordable option without compromising essential all-season performance.
- Versatile Performance: Suitable for everyday driving on highways and city streets.
- Comfortable Ride: Provides a smooth and stable driving experience with minimal road noise.
- Considerations: Verify that the tires can handle the additional weight and potential off-road use of an SUV, as they may not be as robust as specialized SUV tires.
Performance All-Season Tires
- Description: Built for enhanced handling, responsiveness, and higher speed capabilities while maintaining all-season traction.
- Benefits for SUVs:
- Sporty Handling: Improved cornering and stability for a more engaging driving experience.
- Responsive Steering: Precise control and feedback, ideal for drivers who enjoy spirited driving.
- All-Season Versatility: Maintains performance across various weather conditions without the need for seasonal changes.
- Considerations: May wear out faster than standard All-Season tires and could be noisier. They might also offer a stiffer ride compared to comfort-oriented tires.
All-Terrain Tires
- Description: Engineered for both on-road and off-road performance, All-Terrain tires feature more aggressive tread patterns and stronger sidewalls to handle rough terrains.
- Benefits for SUVs:
- Versatile Traction: Excellent grip on dirt, gravel, mud, and light snow, making them ideal for adventurous drivers.
- Durable Construction: Reinforced sidewalls resist punctures and impacts from off-road obstacles.
- Balanced Performance: Suitable for both daily commuting and off-road excursions.
- Considerations: May produce more road noise and have a slightly rougher ride compared to Touring All-Season tires. Tread wear on paved roads might be shorter due to the aggressive tread design.
Choosing the Right Tire for Your SUV
Selecting the appropriate tire type involves balancing your driving habits, the typical road conditions you encounter, and your performance preferences. Whether you prioritize comfort, off-road capability, fuel efficiency, or sporty handling, understanding the different tire categories ensures you make an informed decision that enhances your SUV’s performance and longevity.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires:
Final Thoughts
The Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra is a dependable all-season tire that delivers solid performance in dry and wet conditions. It offers stable handling, responsive steering, and good traction, making it a strong option for drivers in moderate climates who prioritize dry-road performance and stability. These strengths make it a suitable choice for regular commuting and highway driving.
However, the tire has its limitations. Its winter performance is below average, particularly on ice and in deeper snow. Some drivers have also noted noticeable road noise at higher speeds and treadwear that doesn’t match the longevity of some competing premium options. While these concerns aren’t universal, they are worth considering based on your driving conditions and expectations.
Overall, the Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra offers a good balance of performance for dry and wet roads, but it may not justify its premium price tag for drivers who need superior winter capabilities or a quieter ride. If these issues are a concern, you might want to explore alternatives like the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive for its exceptional wet and winter performance, the Continental CrossContact LX25 for a more balanced approach, or the budget-friendly Cooper Endeavor Plus for dependable everyday driving at a lower cost. Ultimately, the right tire depends on your specific needs and priorities.
Good luck and happy motoring.
