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The VW Atlas is a family-friendly SUV with an array of features to accommodate drivers. Now let’s learn about the best tires to increase performance even more.

This complete guide will analyze the best tires available for a VW Atlas. Drivers searching for answers can keep reading to learn about all of the top features to look for and where to go for the best tire in each category. After reading this guide, you will have a better understanding of your VW Atlas and which tire will best suit your needs. This will be the only resource you need.

The OEM factory tire on your VW Atlas is a Continental TerrainContact A/T. The VW Atlas is built as a cross sport SUV with all terrain performance capabilities. We will also analyze this factory tire and provide alternatives in different categories for you to consider. If you aren’t sure about this tire, we will help you to decide whether you need an upgrade or not. Allow our team to guide you there.

Tires are put through a 4 part series of road tests by a team of experts. The four tests are for wet traction, dry slalom driving, short distance braking, and wintry weather driving. Tires are tested in each phase and graded based on their overall performance. The tests are similar to real world driving experiences to provide an accurate understanding on how a tire would handle on your vehicle.

Table of Contents

12 Best Tires For VW Atlas

The Volkswagen Atlas is a mid-size crossover SUV first released in 2018. It has been in production since 2017 with no pauses in release. The Atlas can be had as a four-cylinder option or the narrow angle VR6 choice. The new look design is sophisticated yet simple meant to entice drivers comfort and flair.

We have compiled a list of the 12 best tires for your VW Atlas. We even include a breakdown of the factory tire at purchase and a comparison to our recommendations.

All tires included on the list completed a series of tests to qualify for the tire guide. Our team of experts works tirelessly to provide the best information available to make purchasing decisions easier for VW Atlas owners.

Below is the list of top recommended tires for your VW Atlas:  

Tire Type Tire
All Season Michelin Defender LTX M/S
Touring Kumho Crugen HP71
Summer Atturo AZ850
Winter Pirelli Scorpion Ice & Snow
Performance Street Pirelli P Zero
Highway Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus
All-Terrain Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT
Mud-Terrain Firestone Destination A/T2
All-Purpose Nexen NFera RU5
Ribbed CrossContact LX Sport
Sport Truck Falken Ziex CT60 A/S
Temporary Spare Goodyear Convenience Spare
Factory Tire Continental TerrainContact A/T

Michelin Defender LTX M/S - Best All Season

{{tire-info-with-links="/tire/michelin-defender-ltx-m-s"}}

The Michelin Defender LTX M/S is one of the most popular and widely used all season tires available. Not only do you get four season driving capabilities, but the treadwear life and quiet drivin features are phenomenal.

Michelin uses an Evertread compound to improve durability in tougher conditions. The tread compound is a symmetric design across wider yet stable tread blocks. Wet and winter traction is supported by 3D sipe technology and extra biting edges.

The four circumferential grooves help to handle water, slush, and snow with ease and create a better traction area for the tire. Michel refers to this as MaxTouch Construction. It creates a wider area for the tire to create dryer traction for better handling, short distance braking, and hydroplaning resistance.

The interior support relies on a pair of twin steel belts for high speed durability, steering responsiveness, and elite cornering features.  

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: Up to 70,000 miles
  • Max Load Capacity: 2,039 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 44 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 10.5/32’’
  • Tire Weight: 30 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: 720
  • UTQG Traction: A
  • UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes does this tire come in?

This is a popular market tire and sizes available range between 15” and 22” in rim diameter.

What is the warranty on this tire?

The warranty is a 6 year / 70,000 mile warranty for T and H speed rated tires. Coverage drops a bit to 6 years / 50,000 miles for R speed rated tires. There is also a 60 day satisfaction policy and a 3 year flat changing guarantee. Michelin has got you covered.

Kumho Crugen HP71 - Best Touring

{{tire-info-with-links="/tire/kumho-crugen-hp71"}}

The best touring tire is the Kumho Crugen HP71 because of longevity, reliability, and comfort. This all season touring tire provides drivers with winter weather handling, highway comfort, and luxurious riding.

Kumho created the tread with Variable Pitch Technology. It is a five rib, symmetric tread design to increase driving comfort and better wear resistance. This unique pattern is different from other touring tires because of how strongly it performs in snow and ice too.

The center rib and wid outboard shoulders work together to provide the best handling and cornering features. Not only does it keep highway driving smooth, but street performance is top notch too. It is one of the most stable touring tires you can find.

Wet performanced is aided by four circumferential grooves, a pair of sipes, independent tread blocks, and extra biting edge technology. The Crugen HP71 handles slippery conditions without concern.    

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: 65,000 miles
  • Max Load Capacity: 2,039 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 51 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 11/32’’
  • Tire Weight: 33 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: 640
  • UTQG Traction: A
  • UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes does this tire come in?

Kumho produces a variety of sizes ranging between 16” and 22” in rim diameter to accommodate VW Atlas drivers appropriately.

What is the warranty on this tire?

The warranty on this tire is a 6 year / 65,000 mile warranty for tread life coverage. There is also a uniformity warranty for additional coverage on the first 2/32” of wear.

Atturo AZ850 - Best Summer

As far as summer tires are concerned, the Atturo AZ850 is the best choice on the market because of the performance driving and cornering capabilities. Drivers can expect top notch handling in the rain too.

The rubber tread Atturo uses in their designs is an asymmetric pattern that sticks on the road with stability. The compound also reduces the heat of the tire making it a perfect option for the summer in hot temperatures. With lower heat, the tire tends to last longer and perform better.

There is a support center rib to aid drivers at higher speeds and cornering. The rib provides steering responsiveness, short distance braking, and quicker acceleration.

Wet grip is supported by four main grooves, lateral grooves, and a thin inner tread block to disperse water quickly.

The one true negative feature about the AZ850 is the loud road noise. It is a high performance tire and feels like one when you drive it. Bumps and potholes are a bit louder than other competing summer tires.  

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: None
  • Max Load Capacity: 2,271 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 10/32’’
  • Tire Weight: 32 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: 320
  • UTQG Traction: A
  • UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes does this tire come in?

Atturo makes the AZ850 to serve the SUV, crossover, and sport truck market. Sizes are available between 18” and 22” in rim diameter.

What is the warranty on this tire?

Atturo does not offer a treadwear warranty on this summer seasonal tire.

Pirelli Scorpion Ice & Snow - Best Winter

{{tire-info-with-links="/tire/pirelli-scorpion-ice-snow"}}

The VW Atlas is known for being one of the better choices for winter and snow performance, but with the Pirelli Scorpion Ice & Snow tire it can be even better. The tire is most popularly used by crossovers and SUVs to improve snow handling, braking, and traction in wintry conditions.

The tread compound is made of rubber to optimize pliability features in colder weather. It can remain flexible despite the near freezing temperatures to allow for better grip and handling despite the conditions.

The multi-edged tread blocks create better traction on snow and ice on downhill drives. There are 4 layers to these blocks and they lay across the tire horizontally. The tire sidewalls are extremely secure and stable too for more controlled steering and handling.

Pirelli has built a set of 4 longitudinal grooves along the tire to help water flow away easily with better hydroplaning resistance. Drivers are always in control.  

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: None
  • Max Load Capacity: 2,271 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 10/32’’
  • Tire Weight: 35 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: N/A
  • UTQG Traction: N/A
  • UTQG Temperature: N/A
  • Winter tires are not UTQG Rated

FAQ

What sizes does this tire come in?

Pirelli sells the Scorpion Ice & Snow in sizes ranging between 17” and 21” in rim diameter for interested buyers.

What is the warranty on this tire?

There is no treadwear warranty offered on this winter tire. Pirelli does offer a uniformity warranty to cover 1 year or the first 2/32” of wear.

Pirelli P Zero - Best Performance Street

{{tire-info-with-links="/tire/pirelli-p-zero"}}

The top performance street tire is the Pirelli P Zero. This is a max performance summer tire built from the motosport development team at Pirelli. They have extensive experience creating the best street performance racing tires and the P Zero is another example.

The tread is a silica carbon black mixture compound for long treadwear and better traction performance. The Pirelli S-treme asymmetric pattern is a unique tread design unlike competing performance street tires.

For better wet surface performance, there is a set of four circumferential grooves for water flow and lateral grooves too. The cross functional grooves add an extra layer of protection for hydroplaning resistance and braking.

There is more to this thread. Pirelli uses a set of special case nano-composites within the tread. It adds a layer of strength and support to minimize the risk of deterioration due to higher heat without sacrificing performance street cornering.

The internal section is crafted together by a pair of twin steel belts and cords. Both hold together firmly and provide increased responsiveness at high speeds.  

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: None
  • Max Load Capacity: 2,271 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 50 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 10/32’’
  • Tire Weight: 33 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: 220
  • UTQG Traction: AA
  • UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes does this tire come in?

The Pirelli P Zero performance street tire is available in sizes between 17” and 22” for curious shoppers.

What is the warranty on this tire?

There is no tread life warranty available for this tire. For a layer of coverage, there is a uniformity warranty for 1 year or the first 2/32” of wear coverage.

Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus - Best Highway

{{tire-info-with-links="/tire/bridgestone-dueler-h-l-alenza-plus"}}

Highway driving requires a stable tire for responsive steering, durable treads, and low road noise. The Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus is the perfect tire to accomplish all of these features best.

The symmetric tread pattern enhances ride comfort while creating thicker treads to absorb road noise. Outboard shoulder blocks chive better highway stability and more accurate steering. These highway specific features also rely on a strong continuous center rib for support.

This is an all season tire too with rain, snow, and ice driving capabilities. The four wide circumferential grooves and sipes create channels for water and slush to escape. The sipes add extra biting edges too for better traction on snow and ice.

Tire sidewalls are strong because of the polyester cords and twin steel belts. Stronger sidewalls mean smoother rides.  

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: Up to 80,000 miles
  • Max Load Capacity: 1,984 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 44 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 11/32’’
  • Tire Weight: 33 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: 800
  • UTQG Traction: A
  • UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes does this tire come in?

Bridgestone releases this tire in a long list of sizes ranging between 15” and 20”.

What is the warranty on this tire?

The warranty available is a 5 year / 80,000 mile warranty for T, H, and V speed rated tires. The warranty drops to 55,000 miles in coverage for W speed rated tires.

The special warranty is a 90 day “Buy and Try” guarantee to ensure customer satisfaction.

Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT - Best All-Terrain

{{tire-info-with-links="/tire/goodyear-wrangler-trailrunner-at"}}

The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT is an optimal choice for drivers in need of a versatile on-road and off-road tire choice. Not only does it handle the elements well, but it provides some of the best tread wear and lasting durability.

The chip and tear resistance tread is aggressive to handle tougher elements without high risks of flat tires. The asymmetric pattern contributes to the interlocking blocks and block edges for better strength.

Wet performance is supported by multi-angle sipes that increase the traction on off-road surfaces equally as well as on-road wet surfaces. The multi-angle approach allows the tire to handle in dirt, mud, rain, and snow.

This is also one of the quietest all-terrain tires with low road noise despite so many aggressive features.

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: 65,000 miles
  • Max Load Capacity: 2,039 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 51 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 12/32’’
  • Tire Weight: 33 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: 580
  • UTQG Traction: A
  • UTQG Temperature: B

FAQ

What sizes does this tire come in?

This tire is available in many different sizes including LT sizes. Rim diameter sizes available range between 15” and 22”.

What is the warranty on this tire?

The warranty offered by Goodyear is a 6 year / 55,000 mile warranty. The special warranty is a 30 day test drive trial period for drivers to ensure this is the tire they want to keep.

Firestone Destination A/T2 - Best Mud-Terrain

{{tire-info-with-links="/tire/firestone-tire-destination-a-t-2"}}

The Firestone Destination A/T2 tire is our top pick for best mud-terrain tire available on the market. We chose this tire because of all surface comfort, durability, and excellent wet traction performance.

The special treads are made into a symmetric pattern for a more comfortable driving experience. The pattern uses a HydroGrip technology for better wet surface handling, braking, and hydroplaning resistance. Firestone uses this technology to add another layer of performance and versatility to their off-road tires.

Outboard shoulder blocks use a Stone Rejector technology to avoid implements from rocks and boulders during mud driving. This added layer of durability reduces flat tires and extends the overall tread life.

It can handle the snow too thanks to a set of highly functionable sipes notched into the independent tread blocks. There is a better grip on ice and biting edges increase traction even more.    

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: 55,000 miles
  • Max Load Capacity: 1,984 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 44 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 12/32’’
  • Tire Weight: 31 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: 540
  • UTQG Traction: A
  • UTQG Temperature: B

FAQ

What sizes does this tire come in?

This tire is available in sizes ranging between 14” and 20” in rim diameter to fit different VW Atlas models.

What is the warranty on this tire?

The warranty is a 5 year / 55,000 mile warranty to protect wear and tread life for drivers.

The special warranty gives a new driver the chance to test drive the tire for 90 days with the chance to return for a full refund if they are not satisfied.

Nexen NFera RU5 - Best All-Purpose

{{tire-info-with-links="/tire/nexen-nfera-ru5"}}

The Nexen NFera RU5 is the best all purpose tire because of all season handling, reliable treadwear durability, and tire technologies to accommodate driver needs correctly. Nexen creates dependable tires for crossover and SUV vehicles.  

The tread design uses a wave pattern and additional grooves to provide the ultimate traction in rain, snow, on ice, and on dry roads too. The micro-grooves create an additional outflow channel for water to promote hydroplaning resistance.

The pair of ribs across the tire create support and strength. The second rub is an asymmetric rib for more stability and cornering support. The Nexen Nfera RU5 turns a traditional vehicle into a high performance SUV.

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: 65,000 miles
  • Max Load Capacity: 1,984 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 44 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 11/32’’
  • Tire Weight: 30 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: 500
  • UTQG Traction: A
  • UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes does this tire come in?

This tire has 20 different oem factory sizes available. You can find each size available between 18” and 20”.

What is the warranty on this tire?

The treadwear warranty is a 65,000 mile warranty to cover traditional wear. The road hazard warranty lasts for 2 years or the first 3/32” in wear. Nexen also offers 36 months of road assistance with your purchase.

Continental CrossContact LX Sport - Best Ribbed

{{tire-info-with-links="/tire/continental-crosscontact-lx-sport"}}

The best ribbed tire is the Continental CrossContact LX Sport. This is an all season tire to fit crossover and SUV vehicles for better traction, quiet driving, and extreme comfort.

The asymmetric tread pattern is a perfect ingredient in an all season tire focused on mixing traction, handling, and performance. This tire will give your crossover a more sporty driving feel too.

The outer shoulder blocks use a circumferential rib and grooves to expel water while maintaining optimal cornering stability. With more responsive steering, the tire performances excellent on street and highway drives.

For winter performance, a set of sipes covers the independent tread blocks for snow rides. In the snow, the sipes give off biting edges to grip the road better in slippery conditions.

Internal structure is held together by a pair of twin steel belts for more strength and support.  

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: 50,000 miles
  • Max Load Capacity: 1,356 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 51 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 10/32’’
  • Tire Weight: 22 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: 560
  • UTQG Traction: AA
  • UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes does this tire come in?

This tire is available in sizes between 16” and 22” to fit all VW Atlas models.

What is the warranty on this tire?

There is no treadwear warranty offered on this tire. There is a special warranty for 60 days or the first 2/32” of wear as a trial driving period to determine if you like the tire.

Falken Ziex CT60 A/S - Best Sport Truck

{{tire-info-with-links="/tire/falken-ziex-ct60-a-s"}}

The Falken Ziex CT60 A/S is our best sport truck tire pick because this tire provides premium driving combined with long tread life and four season handling. It is one of our favorite picks on this list and provides an incredible amount of versatility for drivers to consider.  

It provides exceptional wet surface performance thanks to a set of 3D Canyon Sipes and four wide circumferential grooves. The sipes create an interlocking motion with tread blocks for better resistance against wear. They also produce biting edges for added traction.

The asymmetric tread pattern provides a more direct contact between tire and pavement for smoother driving, better handling, and cornering. With all season safety, the treads have pliability at colder temperatures to remain flexible.

This tire can performan in all of the weather elements you will ask it to handle with ease.  

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: 65,000 miles
  • Max Load Capacity: 2,039 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 51 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 10/32’’
  • Tire Weight: 35 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: 740
  • UTQG Traction: A
  • UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes does this tire come in?

This tire is available in sizes ranging between 16” and 20” in rim diameter.

What is the warranty on this tire?

The warranty on this tire is a 65,000 mile limited treadwear warranty to cover basic wear and tear deficiencies.

Goodyear Convenience Spare - Best Temporary Spare

{{tire-info-with-links="/tire/goodyear-convenience-spare"}}

The Goodyear Convenience Spare is a lightweight spare tire option to protect you in the event of an emergency. The design is light to avoid adding extra weight into your vehicle. It is also a compact spare tire to fit best in the trunk without losing any space.

The temporary spare is the best option for temporary road mobility at a low cost. Remember, the ultimate goal of a temporary spare is to get you back onto the road but it is not a permanent replacement option. Be sure to switch out the tire as soon as possible.

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: None
  • Max Load Capacity: 2,403 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 60 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 4/32’’
  • Tire Weight: 19 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: N/A
  • UTQG Traction: N/A
  • UTQG Temperature: N/A

FAQ

How many miles can this last?

This temporary spare is built to last up to 70 miles. We do not recommend driving the entire 70 because the longer you drive your vehicle with the temporary spare, the higher the risk of internal damage or another flat.

What is the top speed I can drive?

The top speed to drive your temporary spare is 50 MPH. Any faster is extremely risky that could cause a tire blow out or transmission issues with your vehicle.

Continental TerrainContact A/T - Factory Tire

{{tire-info-with-links="/tire/continental-terraincontact-a-t"}}

VW Atlas drivers will see a set of the Continental TerrainContact A/T tires on their new vehicle. This is an all-terrain tire emphasizing the off-road focus that Volkswagen has placed on the Atlas vehicle.

The tread is made with a +Silane enhancement for better off road performance. The tread pattern is an open design to improve traction and maintain stable driving on different surfaces.

Wet surface performance relies on full-depth sipes, traction grooves, and extended out tread blacks all to improve water and snow extraction.

The internal structure is made to absorb more punishment from rocks and dirt without worry of flat tires. This can happen because of a pair of twin steel belts to support the tire structure.  

Specifications

Some specifications may vary based on the exact tire size selected.

  • Warranty: 60,000 miles
  • Max Load Capacity: 1,039 lbs
  • Max Inflation Pressure: 44 PSI
  • Tread Depth: 12/32”
  • Tire Weight: 34 lbs
  • UTQG Treadwear: 680
  • UTQG Traction: A
  • UTQG Temperature: A

FAQ

What sizes does this tire come in?

This tire is available in sizes ranging between 16” and 22” in rim diameter.

What is the warranty on this tire?

The warranty is coverage for 6 years and 60,000 miles.

How to Read a VW Atlas Tire Correctly

When searching for a new tire upgrade, you will need to understand how to read a tire sidewall correctly. It may not make sense at first, but it includes all necessary specifications about a tire.

We have created a chart with each element and what it means to help you match the best tire with your VW Atlas.

Symbol Example
Tire Type P or LT "P" means Passenger vehicle
Tire Width 3 Digits Tire measured in millimeters
Aspect Ratio 2 Digits Tire height to width ratio
Construction R, D, or B "R" means Radial construction
Wheel Diameter 2 Digits Tire measured end to end in inches
Load Index 2 Digits The max. weight the tire can hold
Speed Rating M, N, P, Q, R, S, T, H, V, W, Y, or Z The max speed the tire can drive

What Are the Different Available VW Atlas Tire Sizes & Models?

Every vehicle varies in the size required and the different sizes that can be used on each model. The VW Atlas is a newer release and much simpler with only two different OEM tire sizes to choose from.

  • 245/60R18
  • 255/50R20

Below is a full length chart of every VW Atlas model released since 2018 along with the corresponding tire sizes to match. If you didn’t know what your tire was before, this will help.

Year Model Primary Size Secondary Size
2018 Launch Edition 245/60R18
2018 S 245/60R18
2018 SE 245/60R18
2018 SE with Technology 245/60R18 255/50R20
2018 SEL 245/60R18 255/50R20
2018 SEL Premium 255/50R20
2019 S 245/60R18
2019 SE 245/60R18
2019 SE R-Line with Technology 255/50R20
2019 SE with Technology 245/60R18 255/50R20
2019 SEL 245/60R18 255/50R20
2019 SEL Premium 255/50R20
2019 SEL R-Line 255/50R20
Best Tires For VW Atlas: Complete Guide

About The Author

Matt Meurer

Matt Meurer

Matt is a VW Master Technician since 2009 after proceeding through the ranks as a Team Leader and Shop Foreman. He has developed software to increase car dealership efficiency, managed 10+ techs, and instructed students at multiple high-performance driving events since 2011. He is also the lead mechanic, engineer, and driver for Blue Goose Racing.

Read More About Matt Meurer