If you’re an off-road enthusiast looking to conquer the toughest terrains, choosing the right tire can make all the difference. The Firestone Destination M/T2 and Toyo Open Country M/T are two popular choices, but how do they stack up against each other?
The Firestone Destination M/T2 excels in balanced off-road and on-road performance, making it great for varied conditions. The Toyo Open Country M/T, however, shines in extreme off-road scenarios with superior traction in sand and mud.
In this article, we’ll compare the Firestone Destination M/T2 and Toyo Open Country M/T in detail, breaking down their off-road capabilities, performance in wet and dry conditions, comfort, noise levels, treadwear, and overall value. We’ll also look at other top competitors in the market to give you a comprehensive view.
Firestone Destination M/T2
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.6 of 10
Wet Weather
8.5 of 10
Winter Weather
8.5 of 10
All Terrain
9.4 of 10
Tread Wear
8.3 of 10
Dry Weather
8.8 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.1 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: 9.5 of 10
Mud Grip: 9.3 of 10
Sand Grip: 9.2 of 10
Rock Grip: 9.4 of 10
Hydroplaning: 8.6 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.4 of 10
Cornering: 8.6 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.3 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.6 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.8 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 9.0 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.6 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.5 of 10
Road Noise: 7.6 of 10
The Firestone Destination M/T2 is crafted for drivers who crave adventure off the beaten path. Designed to handle the toughest terrains, this tire offers durability, traction, and performance, making it a go-to choice for off-road enthusiasts. Whether you’re tackling mud, sand, rocks, or dirt, the Destination M/T2 aims to keep you moving with confidence.
Key Features
- Aggressive Tread Design: The tire features a deep, aggressive tread pattern that enhances grip on various off-road surfaces.
- Durability: Built with a strong carcass and advanced rubber compound, the Destination M/T2 is designed to withstand harsh conditions.
- Mud and Stone Ejectors: These features help to prevent mud and stones from getting lodged in the tread, maintaining traction and preventing damage.
- Enhanced Traction: The tire’s design includes additional biting edges and sipes to improve traction on both wet and dry surfaces.
- Winter Performance: Rated for winter use, providing good performance in light snow and on icy roads.
Performance Breakdown
Off-Road (9.4)
- Dirt: 9.5
- Sand: 9.2
- Mud: 9.3
- Rock: 9.4
The Destination M/T2 excels off-road, especially on dirt and rocks. It’s like having a reliable hiking boot that grips well no matter where you step.
Wet Performance (8.5)
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.6
- Wet Traction: 8.4
Wet roads can be tricky, but this tire handles them decently. It’s comparable to wearing rain boots—not perfect, but they get you through the puddles without much hassle.
Dry Performance (8.8)
- Corner Stability: 8.6
- Dry Traction: 9.3
- Steering Response: 8.6
On dry pavement, the Destination M/T2 performs reliably, offering solid traction and decent steering response. Think of it as a sturdy, everyday shoe that’s comfortable and dependable.
Winter/Snow Performance (8.5)
- Light Snow Traction: 8.8
- Deep Snow Traction: 9.0
- Ice Traction: 7.6
In snowy conditions, this tire holds its own, especially in light to moderate snow. It’s like wearing winter boots that handle slush well but might slip a bit on pure ice.
Comfort (8.1)
- Ride Quality: 8.5
- Noise: 7.6
The ride quality is decent, but it does generate some noise. It’s akin to driving a sturdy vehicle that handles bumps well but can be a bit loud inside.
Treadwear (8.3)
Built to last, the Destination M/T2 offers good tread life, ensuring you get your money’s worth over time.
Pros
- Excellent off-road traction on various terrains
- Good performance in light to moderate snow
- Durable construction for harsh conditions
- Decent ride quality
Cons
- Noisy, especially on highways
- Wet traction could be better
- Ice traction is not as strong as competitors
Toyo Open Country M/T
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.3 of 10
Wet Weather
8.1 of 10
Winter Weather
8.4 of 10
All Terrain
9.7 of 10
Tread Wear
7.7 of 10
Dry Weather
8.4 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: 9.9 of 10
Rock Grip: 9.5 of 10
Hydroplaning: 8.2 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.1 of 10
Cornering: 8.0 of 10
Dry Grip: 8.6 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.5 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.5 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.8 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.8 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.3 of 10
Road Noise: 7.2 of 10
The Toyo Open Country M/T is built for serious off-road enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance. Known for its exceptional durability and impressive traction, this tire is designed to conquer extreme terrains, from muddy trails to sandy dunes. With a focus on aggressive off-road capabilities, the Open Country M/T is engineered to keep you moving, no matter the conditions.
Key Features
- Aggressive Tread Design: The deep, open tread pattern is perfect for digging into loose surfaces like mud and sand, providing superior grip.
- Durability: Constructed with a high-strength rubber compound and reinforced sidewalls, the Open Country M/T is designed to resist punctures and abrasions.
- Mud and Snow Rated: The tire’s design and compound ensure good performance in muddy and snowy conditions, making it versatile for year-round use.
- Enhanced Traction: Features hook-shaped blocks and scalloped shoulder blocks for improved traction on uneven surfaces.
- Stone and Mud Ejectors: These help to keep the tread clear of debris, maintaining optimal performance.
Performance Breakdown
Off-Road (9.7)
- Dirt: 9.8
- Sand: 9.9
- Mud: 9.6
- Rock: 9.5
The Open Country M/T excels in off-road conditions, particularly on sand and dirt. It’s like having specialized off-road shoes that grip superbly on loose and uneven terrain.
Wet Performance (8.1)
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.2
- Wet Traction: 8.1
While the tire performs adequately in wet conditions, it doesn’t quite match the best in class. Think of it as a decent rain jacket—not the best, but it’ll keep you dry.
Dry Performance (8.4)
- Corner Stability: 8.0
- Dry Traction: 8.6
- Steering Response: 8.5
On dry roads, the Open Country M/T provides reliable traction and handling, although corner stability is a bit lower. It’s like a sturdy, reliable boot that offers comfort but could use a bit more finesse in tight corners.
Winter/Snow Performance (8.4)
- Light Snow Traction: 8.5
- Deep Snow Traction: 8.8
- Ice Traction: 7.8
This tire performs well in snowy conditions, especially in deeper snow. It’s similar to having good winter boots that handle most snowy conditions well but may slip a bit on ice.
Comfort (7.7)
- Ride Quality: 8.3
- Noise: 7.2
The ride quality is good, but the tire can be noisy, especially on highways. Imagine driving a rugged vehicle that handles bumps well but is a bit noisy inside.
Treadwear (7.7)
While the Open Country M/T is durable, its treadwear rating is on the lower side compared to its competitors, indicating it might not last as long.
Pros
- Superior off-road performance, especially in sand and dirt
- Excellent traction in deep snow
- Durable construction with reinforced sidewalls
- Good ride quality
Cons
- Higher noise levels, particularly on highways
- Wet performance could be improved
- Treadwear is not as high as some competitors
Comparative Analysis
When choosing the right tire for your truck, the devil is in the details. Both the Firestone Destination M/T2 and the Toyo Open Country M/T offer robust features for the discerning driver, 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
| Firestone Destination M/T2 | Toyo Open Country M/T | |
|---|---|---|
| Dirt | 9.5 | 9.8 |
| Sand | 9.2 | 9.9 |
| Mud | 9.3 | 9.6 |
| Rock | 9.4 | 9.5 |
The Toyo Open Country M/T takes the lead in off-road terrain with a score of 9.7, compared to the Firestone Destination M/T2’s 9.4. This higher score means the Toyo offers better traction in sand and dirt, making it more suitable for areas prone to loose and uneven terrain challenges or those who need extreme traction capabilities in adverse trail environments.
Performance in Wet Conditions
| Firestone Destination M/T2 | Toyo Open Country M/T | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydroplaning Resistance | 8.6 | 8.2 |
| Wet Traction | 8.4 | 8.1 |
The Firestone Destination M/T2 takes the lead in wet conditions with a score of 8.5, compared to the Toyo Open Country M/T’s 8.1. This higher score means the Firestone offers better traction and hydroplaning resistance, making it more suitable for areas prone to heavy rains or those who prioritize safety and control in wet environments.
Dry Traction and Handling
| Firestone Destination M/T2 | Toyo Open Country M/T | |
|---|---|---|
| Corner Stability | 8.6 | 8.0 |
| Dry Traction | 9.3 | 8.6 |
| Steering Response | 8.6 | 8.5 |
Both tires perform admirably on dry roads, but the Firestone edges out slightly with a score of 8.8 against the Toyo’s 8.4. The Firestone offers sharper corner stability and steering response, ideal for those who enjoy a spirited drive. If you find joy in taking curves with confidence and need a tire that keeps up with aggressive steering, Firestone might be your go-to.
Comfort and Noise
| Firestone Destination M/T2 | Toyo Open Country M/T | |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Quality | 8.5 | 8.3 |
| Noise | 7.6 | 7.2 |
On the comfort front, both tires offer a decent driving experience, but the Firestone’s higher scores in ride quality provide a slightly better environment for long drives. If you spend significant time in your vehicle and prefer a tranquil journey, the Firestone has a slight advantage.
Treadwear and Durability
| Firestone Destination M/T2 | Toyo Open Country M/T | |
|---|---|---|
| Treadwear | 8.3 | 7.7 |
This is where the Firestone might catch some eyes, despite its treadwear score of 8.3 compared to Toyo’s 7.7. The higher score suggests a longer lifespan, making the Firestone a more durable option for those who want their tires to go the extra mile.
The Verdict
- Choose Firestone Destination M/T2 if: You prioritize a balanced performance with slightly better wet and dry traction, along with better comfort and durability. This tire is ideal for drivers who need reliable performance in a variety of conditions and prefer a quieter ride.
- Opt for Toyo Open Country M/T if: You need superior off-road capabilities, especially in sand and dirt, and are willing to sacrifice a bit of on-road comfort and tread life. This tire suits drivers who frequently tackle extreme off-road conditions and need the best traction on loose surfaces.
Other Competitors in the Market
While the Firestone Destination M/T2 and the Toyo Open Country M/T hold their ground as 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)
- Winter/Snow: 8.5 (Light Snow Traction: 9.0, Deep Snow Traction: 9.1, Ice Traction: 7.3)
- Comfort: 8.2 (Ride Quality: 8.5, Noise: 7.9)
- Treadwear: 8.8
Pros:
- Outstanding off-road performance
- Excellent wet and dry traction
- Good treadwear rating
Cons:
- Noise levels could be better
- Ice traction is not the best
Ideal Usage: Suitable for drivers who need a robust tire for extreme off-road conditions but still want reliable performance on wet and dry roads.
BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3
Performance Ratings:
- Offroad: 9.5 (Dirt: 9.6, Sand: 9.1, Mud: 9.7, Rock: 9.5)
- Wet: 8.5 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.5, Wet Traction: 8.4)
- Dry: 8.9 (Corner Stability: 8.7, Dry Traction: 9.1, Steering Response: 8.9)
- Winter/Snow: 8.0 (Light Snow Traction: 8.5, Deep Snow Traction: 8.7, Ice Traction: 6.9)
- Comfort: 8.0 (Ride Quality: 8.4, Noise: 7.7)
- Treadwear: 8.2
Pros:
- Exceptional mud traction
- Strong off-road capabilities
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Lower ice traction
- Noisier on highways
Ideal Usage: Perfect for serious off-road enthusiasts who need excellent mud performance and can handle a bit of noise on the road.
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)
- Winter/Snow: 8.5 (Light Snow Traction: 8.9, Deep Snow Traction: 9.1, Ice Traction: 7.5)
- Comfort: 8.0 (Ride Quality: 8.3, Noise: 7.7)
- Treadwear: 8.5
Pros:
- Well-rounded off-road performance
- Good wet and dry traction
- Reasonable noise levels
Cons:
- Slightly lower treadwear compared to top competitors
Ideal Usage: A versatile option for drivers who need reliable off-road performance with balanced wet and dry capabilities.
Each of these alternatives offers a unique set of features that cater to different driving styles and priorities:
- For Extreme Off-Road Performance: The Yokohama Geolandar M/T G003 strikes a good balance, offering excellent off-road and wet performance. It’s ideal for those who drive in extreme conditions but still want reliable on-road traction.
- For Mud Enthusiasts: The BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 shines in mud traction, making it perfect for drivers who frequently encounter muddy trails. While noisier, its off-road durability is top-notch.
- For Balanced Off-Roading: The General Grabber X3 provides a well-rounded performance across various terrains, with decent noise levels and good wet traction. It suits drivers who need versatile capabilities without focusing on a specific extreme condition.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires:
- Firestone Product Page
- BFGoodrich Product Page
- Off-Road Maximum Traction Truck Tire Consumer Ratings – Tire Rack
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Firestone Destination M/T2 and Toyo Open Country M/T depends on your specific needs. The Firestone Destination M/T2 is a solid all-around performer, offering good traction in various off-road conditions and reliable on-road comfort. It’s a great choice for drivers who want a tire that can handle a mix of terrains and weather conditions without sacrificing comfort and longevity.
On the other hand, the Toyo Open Country M/T is designed for those who push the limits off-road, excelling in sandy and muddy terrains. If your adventures frequently take you through loose and challenging off-road conditions and you’re willing to trade a bit of on-road comfort and tread life for superior off-road performance, the Toyo Open Country M/T is the way to go.
Good luck and happy motoring!
