Need a tire that can handle your crossover or SUV with comfort and confidence in all seasons? The Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 is an option, though its ratings suggest some important trade-offs. But how does it compare to other crossover touring options, and what compromises should you consider?
Rated a Tire Grade of 1.7/10, the Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 offers budget-friendly pricing, and wide size availability. However, quicker tread wear and modest snow grip could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
We’ve put together a comprehensive look at the Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 and what it has to offer. We put it head-to-head with competitors including the budget-friendly Continental CrossContact LX25, the average-priced Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3, and the premium Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive. Plus, we address common complaints and dig into the real-world performance data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Below, we compare the against the top-rated alternatives in the category. For a deeper look at each alternative, see the Recommended Alternatives section further down.
Wet Performance
| Tire | Hydroplaning Resistance | Wet Traction |
|---|---|---|
|
Premium Priced
Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 |
5.8 | 6.2 |
|
Budget Priced
Continental CrossContact LX25 |
9.1 | 9.2 |
|
Mid-Priced
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 |
9.1 | 9.2 |
|
Premium Priced
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive |
9.3 | 9.4 |
Dry Performance
| Tire | Corner Stability | Dry Traction | Steering Response |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Premium Priced
Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 |
7.2 | 7.4 | 7.1 |
|
Budget Priced
Continental CrossContact LX25 |
9.3 | 9.5 | 9.3 |
|
Mid-Priced
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 |
9.4 | 9.5 | 9.3 |
|
Premium Priced
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive |
9.5 | 9.6 | 9.4 |
Winter/Snow Performance
| Tire | Light Snow Traction | Deep Snow Traction | Ice Traction |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Premium Priced
Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 |
5.2 | 5.0 | 4.3 |
|
Budget Priced
Continental CrossContact LX25 |
8.8 | 8.3 | 7.9 |
|
Mid-Priced
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 |
8.7 | 8.2 | 7.9 |
|
Premium Priced
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive |
9.2 | 8.7 | 8.5 |
Comfort Performance
| Tire | Ride Quality | Noise |
|---|---|---|
|
Premium Priced
Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 |
6.8 | 6.6 |
|
Budget Priced
Continental CrossContact LX25 |
9.2 | 8.9 |
|
Mid-Priced
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 |
9.2 | 9.1 |
|
Premium Priced
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive |
9.2 | 8.9 |
Treadwear Performance
| Tire | Treadwear |
|---|---|
|
Premium Priced
Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 |
1.9 |
|
Budget Priced
Continental CrossContact LX25 |
9.1 |
|
Mid-Priced
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 |
8.9 |
|
Premium Priced
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive |
8.9 |
Detailed Review
Our ratings are based on aggregated feedback from real-world drivers. Each tire’s Tire Grade reflects thousands of miles of owner-reported data — the more miles driven, the higher our confidence in the score.
Dunlop Grandtrek PT21
Customer Ratings
Wet Weather
6.0 of 10
Winter Weather
4.9 of 10
Dry Weather
7.2 of 10
Ride Comfort
6.7 of 10
Tread Wear
1.9 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 360
UTQG Traction Rating: B
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
Contact manufacturer for warranty details
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 5.8 of 10
Wet Grip: 6.2 of 10
Cornering: 7.2 of 10
Dry Grip: 7.4 of 10
Responsiveness: 7.1 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 5.2 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 5.0 of 10
Ice Grip: 4.3 of 10
Comfort Level: 6.8 of 10
Road Noise: 6.6 of 10
The Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 competes in the crossover/suv touring all-season segment but falls short of top performers in key areas. It may suit budget-conscious drivers willing to accept trade-offs in grip, comfort, or longevity compared to higher-rated alternatives.
Dry Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
On dry roads, the Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 delivers acceptable performance for its category. While it may not match the sharpest-handling competitors, it provides stable, predictable behavior for everyday driving conditions. Within the category though, some competitors do deliver stronger dry traction and handling, so this is worth weighing if it’s a top priority for you.
Wet Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
Wet performance is adequate but not a standout strength of this tire. While it handles light rain reasonably well, extra caution is advised in heavy downpours or standing water situations. Within the category though, most competitors deliver noticeably stronger wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, so keep this in mind if it’s a high priority for you.
Ride Comfort and Noise Level
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
Comfort is acceptable but falls short of the segment leaders. Some road noise and firmness may be noticeable, particularly on rough surfaces or during extended highway driving. Within the category though, some competitors do deliver stronger ride comfort and noise control, so this is worth weighing if it’s a top priority for you.
Winter/Snow Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
Winter performance is limited with this tire. While it can handle light dustings, it struggles in deeper snow and icy conditions. Drivers in areas with regular winter weather should consider dedicated snow tires or a more winter-capable all-season option. Within the category though, most competitors deliver noticeably stronger winter and snow traction, so keep this in mind if it’s a high priority for you.
Treadwear and Longevity
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
Treadwear is a relative weakness of this tire, which is common for high-performance designs that prioritize grip. Expect to replace these sooner than touring-oriented alternatives, though the trade-off is enhanced performance. Within the category though, most competitors deliver noticeably stronger tread life and longevity, so keep this in mind if it’s a high priority for you.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price point
- Widely available tire sizes
- Backed by manufacturer warranty
- Adequate for light-duty driving
Cons
- Slightly elevated road noise on paved surfaces
- Less effective traction in light snow and icy conditions
- Tread life may be shorter than touring alternatives
- Higher price point than budget alternatives
Value Analysis
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 struggles on value when compared to other premium tires in this category. Its performance metrics do not quite justify its price point, with most competitors delivering stronger results for a similar or lower cost. Combined with reasonable longevity when properly maintained, the overall package is difficult to recommend on value alone. Drivers focused on getting the most for their money should strongly consider alternatives in the crossover/suv touring all-season segment.
The Verdict
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 is a budget option with notable trade-offs in balanced performance and reliability. However, if you are sensitive to road noise or often drive in light snow and icy conditions, you might want to consider other alternatives. Overall, this tire may leave you wanting more. Consider the alternatives discussed above before committing, especially if well-rounded performance is a priority.
Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 Problems
While the Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 is a capable tire, some drivers have reported a few issues that might affect their overall experience. These include a bit more road noise, challenges in light snow, ice, or slush, and shorter tread life than touring alternatives. It’s good to know that many of these problems are from isolated reports or can be helped with proper maintenance like keeping the right air pressure, regular rotations, and proper alignment.
Understanding these concerns can help you decide if this tire is the right choice for your driving needs.
Road Noise
Typical
While many say the tire is quiet for its design, a few drivers have reported that it makes more road noise than factory tires or some premium options. This can be especially noticeable on paved roads.
Light Snow, Ice, and Slush Performance
Typical
The tire performs very well in deep snow, but some drivers have found that it does not grip as well in light snow, slush, or on icy roads. This can sometimes lead to slipping or less stable cornering in those conditions.
Tread Life Expectations
Typical
Performance-oriented tires like the Grandtrek PT21 typically wear faster than touring tires due to their softer, grippier compounds. This is a normal trade-off for enhanced grip and handling. Regular rotation and proper inflation help maximize tread life.
Premium Pricing
Typical
As a premium-tier tire, the Grandtrek PT21 comes with a higher price tag than budget alternatives. While the quality and performance generally justify the cost, budget-conscious buyers should weigh this against their specific needs and driving habits.
The Bottomline
While the Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 is a strong tire overall, it is not without its concerns. Issues such as higher road noise, reduced traction in light snow, ice, or slush, shorter tread life have been noted by some drivers. If these problems worry you, consider looking into our recommended alternatives.
Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 Alternatives
While the Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 is a strong tire overall, some drivers have noted its extra road noise, lower performance in light snow or icy conditions, and shorter tread life. If these issues are a concern for you, consider these recommended alternatives.
Continental CrossContact LX25
Continental CrossContact LX25
Overall: A budget-friendly option, the Continental CrossContact LX25 offers good value for drivers who want reliable performance without a high price tag. While it may not match the Grandtrek PT21 in every area, it stands out as a strong performer for its cost.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, matching or exceeding the Grandtrek PT21’s strong wet performance.
- Dry Weather: Excels in dry traction, corner stability, and steering response, matching or surpassing the Grandtrek PT21’s dry performance.
- Winter Performance: Performs well in winter conditions with strong snow traction, matching or exceeding the Grandtrek PT21’s winter capability, though ice traction remains limited.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for excellent comfort and treadwear, offering a quieter ride and longer tread life than the Grandtrek PT21.
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
Overall: The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is a well-balanced, average-priced tire that offers a good mix of performance and value. It delivers solid traction in most conditions and represents a strong alternative at its price point.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, matching or exceeding the Grandtrek PT21’s strong wet performance.
- Dry Weather: Excels in dry traction, corner stability, and steering response, matching or surpassing the Grandtrek PT21’s dry performance.
- Winter Performance: Performs well in winter conditions with strong snow traction, matching or exceeding the Grandtrek PT21’s winter capability, though ice traction remains limited.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for excellent comfort and treadwear, offering a quieter ride and longer tread life than the Grandtrek PT21.
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive
Overall: A premium crossover/suv touring all-season tire known for its proven durability and high performance, the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive is built for drivers who demand the best. It offers a robust performance package that can address some of the Grandtrek PT21’s concerns.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, matching or exceeding the Grandtrek PT21’s strong wet performance.
- Dry Weather: Excels in dry traction, corner stability, and steering response, matching or surpassing the Grandtrek PT21’s dry performance.
- Winter Performance: Performs well in winter conditions with strong snow traction, matching or exceeding the Grandtrek PT21’s winter capability.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for excellent comfort and treadwear, offering a quieter ride and longer tread life than the Grandtrek PT21.
Each of these alternative tires brings its own strengths to the table.
- The Continental CrossContact LX25 is a budget-friendly option that delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank.
- The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 offers a balanced blend of performance and comfort at a solid average price.
- The Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive is a premium choice with proven durability and strong performance in many conditions.
Depending on your driving needs and what matters most to you, these tires can be great alternatives to the Dunlop Grandtrek PT21.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
Final Thoughts
The Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 falls short of category leaders, with its strongest showing in balanced performance across categories. Drivers on a tight budget may find it serviceable, but those who prioritize all-around dependability should weigh the trade-offs carefully.
However, it’s important to note some of its drawbacks. Some drivers have also reported increased road noise less reliable traction in light snow or on icy roads, and Tread life may be shorter than touring alternatives.. While these issues are not widespread, they are worth considering if you have specific performance needs.
In the end, the Dunlop Grandtrek PT21 sits near the bottom of its category in overall ratings. Consider alternatives like the Continental CrossContact LX25, Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3, and the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive before committing, as they offer meaningfully better performance in key areas. If budget is the deciding factor, this tire may still work for light-duty use — but go in with realistic expectations about the issues mentioned above.
Good luck and happy motoring.
