4×4 tyre types: HT vs. AT vs. MT

4×4 tyres come in four broad categories depending on the intended ratio of on- versus off-road usage.

HP: High-performance road tyres (95 per cent on-road bias)

These road tyres have characteristics similar to standard tyres fitted on sedans, but are larger. They tend to be quiet and are rated for high speeds on wet and dry tar. HP tyres are thought not to be particularly well suited to our high temperatures and generally varied road conditions in Southern Africa.

HT: Highway-terrain (80/20)

New vehicles usually have this type of tyre fitted. They’re designed to be quiet with excellent traction on road, but their higher load ratings and heavier tread patterns lend themselves to occasional off-road use. Sidewalls tend to be thin and can be prone to damage from rocks, but HTs offer better ride comfort.

AT: All-terrain 4×4 (50/50)

These are designed to have good overall performance on tar and off, though the speed rating is often lower. AT tread is more aggressive than standard HTs to throw off mud. Sidewalls and tread tend to be thicker than standard to withstand the rigours of off-road gravel, sand and mud driving.

MT: Mud-terrain 4×4 (90/10)

Designed with mainly off-road driving in mind, MTs have especially aggressive wide-gapped tread-patterns for optimal grip on rough and muddy terrain. MTs’ on-road performance tends to be noisy and braking distance on wet tar is greatly increased, making them potentially more dangerous than ATs. Off-road, the extra thick tread and sidewalls provide ultimate puncture resistance.

Also see: How to decrypt the writing on a tyre sidewall