Are you looking for a tire that can tackle rough trails and smooth highways alike? The Falken WildPeak A/T4W might be just what you need. But how does it stack up against other top all-terrain options, and what compromises might you face if you choose it?
The Falken WildPeak A/T4W offers strong off-road grip, solid wet and dry traction, and dependable treadwear for confident driving in many conditions. Yet, its shorter track record and higher price tag might give some drivers pause.
In this article, we take a closer look at the Falken WildPeak A/T4W. We will compare it side-by-side with top alternatives like the premium BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, the average-priced General Grabber A/TX, and the budget-friendly Sumitomo Encounter AT. We will also discuss common issues and share detailed performance stats so you can decide if it is the right tire for you.
Side-By-Side Comparison
Price Comparison
| Tire | Price Category |
|---|---|
| Falken WildPeak A/T4W | Mid-Range |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | Premium |
| General Grabber A/TX | Average |
| Sumitomo Encounter AT | Budget |
Wet Performance
| Tire | Hydroplaning Resistance | Wet Traction |
|---|---|---|
| Falken WildPeak A/T4W | 9.2 | 9.2 |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | 8.8 | 8.7 |
| General Grabber A/TX | 8.8 | 8.8 |
| Sumitomo Encounter AT | 8.7 | 8.8 |
Dry Performance
| Tire | Corner Stability | Dry Traction | Steering Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Falken WildPeak A/T4W | 9.1 | 9.4 | 9.1 |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | 9.1 | 9.4 | 9.1 |
| General Grabber A/TX | 9.0 | 9.3 | 8.9 |
| Sumitomo Encounter AT | 9.0 | 9.3 | 9.0 |
Winter/Snow Performance
| Tire | Light Snow Traction | Deep Snow Traction | Ice Traction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Falken WildPeak A/T4W | 9.0 | 9.1 | 8.3 |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | 9.1 | 9.0 | 8.0 |
| General Grabber A/TX | 9.1 | 8.9 | 8.0 |
| Sumitomo Encounter AT | 8.9 | 8.7 | 7.9 |
Comfort Performance
| Tire | Ride Quality | Noise |
|---|---|---|
| Falken WildPeak A/T4W | 8.8 | 8.6 |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | 8.6 | 8.3 |
| General Grabber A/TX | 8.5 | 8.1 |
| Sumitomo Encounter AT | 8.8 | 8.4 |
Treadwear Performance
| Tire | Treadwear |
|---|---|
| Falken WildPeak A/T4W | 9.0 |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | 8.7 |
| General Grabber A/TX | 8.7 |
| Sumitomo Encounter AT | 8.7 |
Falken WildPeak A/T4W
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.9 of 10
Wet Weather
9.2 of 10
Winter Weather
8.6 of 10
All Terrain
8.8 of 10
Tread Wear
8.9 of 10
Dry Weather
9.2 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.6 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: N/A
UTQG Traction Rating: N/A
UTQG Temperature Rating: N/A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 65,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Dirt Grip: 9.1 of 10
Mud Grip: 8.6 of 10
Sand Grip: 8.7 of 10
Rock Grip: 8.8 of 10
Hydroplaning: 9.2 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.2 of 10
Cornering: 9.2 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.4 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.1 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.9 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.9 of 10
Ice Grip: 8.2 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.7 of 10
Road Noise: 8.5 of 10
The Falken WildPeak A/T4W is built for drivers who crave both off-road capability and reliable on-road performance. It is designed to tackle rugged terrain, wet roads, and snowy conditions with confidence. If you enjoy adventures that take you off the beaten path, this tire may be the right choice for your SUV or truck.
Dry Performance
Rating: Well Above Average
On dry roads, the WildPeak A/T4W shows great grip and responsive steering. Its excellent corner stability and dry traction give you a solid, confident feel behind the wheel. Whether you’re cruising on highways or winding through country roads, you’ll enjoy steady handling and precision.
Wet Performance
Rating: Well Above Average
This tire performs impressively in wet conditions. With high ratings for hydroplaning resistance and wet traction, it efficiently channels water away to lower the risk of skidding. You can drive safely in heavy rain, knowing the tire has been designed to keep you on track.
Ride Comfort and Noise Level
Rating: Above Average
The WildPeak A/T4W offers a comfortable ride for most drivers. However, some users have noticed that the tire produces a slightly higher level of road noise, especially on paved surfaces. While the ride remains smooth, this extra noise might be noticeable on longer highway trips.
Winter/Snow Performance
Rating: Average
In snowy conditions, the tire does well, especially in deep snow where it shows strong traction. However, its performance in light snow or on icy roads isn’t as robust, and you might experience occasional slipping during cornering. If you often drive in mild winter conditions with icy patches, extra caution is advised.
Treadwear and Longevity
Rating: Above Average
The WildPeak A/T4W has a strong treadwear rating, which means it should last for many miles when maintained properly. Its durable design is built to handle rough terrain, although factors like driving style and road conditions can impact its overall longevity.
Pros
- Excellent dry and wet traction
- Responsive steering and stable handling
- Great performance in deep snow and off-road conditions
- Durable treadwear for long-lasting use
Cons
- Increased weight can slow acceleration and affect fuel economy
- Slightly elevated road noise on paved surfaces
- Less effective traction in light snow and icy conditions
- Some reports of balancing and installation issues
Value Analysis
Rating: Above Average
The Falken WildPeak A/T4W delivers strong performance for off-road and challenging conditions. Its high ratings in dry and wet performance, along with good treadwear, offer solid value for drivers who need a tire that can handle varied terrain. While the extra weight and some noise concerns might be a drawback for some, its overall benefits make it a dependable choice for adventure seekers.
The Verdict
The Falken WildPeak A/T4W is a strong option if you value off-road capability and robust performance. It excels on dry and wet roads and shows good durability in rough conditions. 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 is a worthy pick for those who need a reliable tire that performs well across a range of challenging environments.
Falken WildPeak A/T4W Problems
While the Falken WildPeak A/T4W is a capable tire, some drivers have reported a few issues that might affect their overall experience. These include a heavier weight compared to other models, a bit more road noise, and challenges in light snow or icy conditions. 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.
Weight and Its Impact
Some drivers have noticed that the WildPeak A/T4W is heavier than previous models or some of its competitors. This extra weight can lead to slower acceleration and may lower fuel economy by a couple of miles per gallon.
Road Noise
While many say the tire is quiet for an all-terrain 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 and Icy Conditions
The tire performs very well in deep snow, but some drivers have found that it does not grip as well in light snow or on icy roads. This can sometimes lead to slipping or less stable cornering in those conditions.
Balancing and Installation Issues
A few reports mention problems during mounting or balancing the tire. Some drivers experienced vibrations or a wobbling feeling when the tires were new, which might require extra adjustments to get a smooth ride.
The Bottomline
While the Falken WildPeak A/T4W is a strong tire overall, it is not without its concerns. Issues such as increased weight, higher road noise, and reduced traction in light snow or icy conditions have been noted by some drivers. If these problems worry you, consider looking into our recommended alternatives.
Falken WildPeak A/T4W Alternatives
While the Falken WildPeak A/T4W is a strong tire overall, some drivers have noted its heavier weight, extra road noise, and lower performance in light snow or icy conditions. If these issues are a concern for you, consider these recommended alternatives.
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
Overall: A premium all-terrain tire known for its proven durability and high performance, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is built for drivers who need a tire that has been tested over millions of miles. It offers a robust performance package that can address some of the WildPeak’s concerns.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides solid wet traction and effective hydroplaning resistance, even though its ratings are a bit lower than the WildPeak’s wet scores.
- Dry Weather: Excels in dry traction, corner stability, and steering response, making it a reliable choice for everyday driving.
- Winter Performance: Performs well in winter conditions with strong light snow traction, though its ice traction is slightly lower.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for good tread life and durability; while the ride may be a bit firmer, its long-term reliability is proven.
General Grabber A/TX
Overall: The General Grabber A/TX is a well-balanced, average-priced tire that offers a good mix of performance and value. It delivers solid traction in most conditions and has a proven track record with millions of miles behind it.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides reliable wet traction and effective water dispersion, making it safe on rainy roads.
- Dry Weather: Offers consistent dry traction and stable handling, closely matching the performance of the WildPeak.
- Winter Performance: Performs adequately in snow and on icy roads, though it might not match the best premium options.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Delivers a comfortable ride with lower road noise and has solid treadwear for long-lasting use.
Sumitomo Encounter AT
Overall: A budget-friendly option, the Sumitomo Encounter AT offers good value for drivers who want reliable performance without a high price tag. While it may not match the WildPeak in every area, it stands out as a strong performer for its cost.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Delivers effective wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, keeping you safe on wet roads.
- Dry Weather: Provides dependable dry traction and stable handling for everyday driving.
- Winter Performance: Offers good performance in light winter conditions, though its ice traction is lower compared to premium alternatives.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for a comfortable ride and long-lasting tread, making it a smart choice for budget-minded drivers.
Each of these alternative tires brings its own strengths to the table.
- The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is a premium choice with proven durability and strong performance in many conditions.
- The General Grabber A/TX offers a balanced blend of performance and comfort at a solid average price.
- The Sumitomo Encounter AT is a budget-friendly option that delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Depending on your driving needs and what matters most to you, these tires can be great alternatives to the Falken WildPeak A/T4W.
Falken WildPeak A/T3W Vs A/T4W
The Falken WildPeak A/T4W is the new successor to the trusted A/T3W. Early feedback shows that while the A/T4W is about 7 pounds heavier per tire, it offers several notable improvements that have impressed drivers right out of the gate.
Key Improvements
- Enhanced Durability: The A/T4W now features a 3-ply DURASPEC sidewall design, which Falken says helps keep the bead cooler and improves overall tire strength.
- Extended Tread Life: With a treadwear warranty extended from 55,000 miles on the A/T3W to 65,000 miles on the A/T4W, drivers can expect a longer-lasting tire.
- Improved Handling: Falken claims that the A/T4W offers better dry road handling and braking performance, which early reviews have backed up.
- Towing Capability: Increased tread rigidity in the new model enhances towing performance, addressing a key need for off-road and utility drivers.
- Smoother Ride: Despite the extra weight, early feedback indicates that the A/T4W rides smoother and quieter on highways compared to its predecessor.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | A/T3W | A/T4W |
|---|---|---|
| Treadwear Warranty | 55,000 miles | 65,000 miles |
| Sidewall Design | Standard construction | 3-ply DURASPEC design |
| Dry Road Handling | Proven performance | Improved responsiveness and braking |
| Ride Comfort | Reliable | Smoother and quieter |
| Towing Performance | Good | Enhanced due to increased tread rigidity |
| Weight | Lighter | Approximately 7 lbs heavier per tire |
Early Feedback & Summary
Early driver impressions are very promising. Many praise the A/T4W for its improved dry handling, quieter highway performance, and better braking and towing capabilities compared to the A/T3W. Although the extra weight may slightly affect acceleration and fuel economy, the benefits—such as enhanced durability and extended tread life—seem to outweigh this drawback. However, since the A/T4W is still new to the market, more real-world testing over time will determine if it can consistently surpass the well-regarded A/T3W.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
Final Thoughts
The Falken WildPeak A/T4W is a robust all-terrain tire that offers great value with its strong dry and wet traction, dependable treadwear, and solid off-road capabilities. It is built for drivers who need a tire that performs well on paved roads and rough trails alike.
However, it’s important to note some of its drawbacks. The tire’s extra weight can lead to slower acceleration and a slight drop in fuel economy. Some drivers have also reported increased road noise and less reliable traction in light snow or on icy roads. While these issues are not widespread, they are worth considering if you have specific performance needs.
In the end, the Falken WildPeak A/T4W offers a balanced mix of performance and value. If you enjoy off-road adventures and need a tire that can handle varied conditions, it is a strong choice. But if you are concerned about its performance in light winter conditions or prefer a quieter ride, you might want to look at alternatives like the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, General Grabber A/TX, or Sumitomo Encounter AT. Your decision should reflect your driving style and priorities.
Good luck and happy motoring.
