Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. has launched a new rugged-terrain tire, the Open Country R/T Trail, that has applications for light commercial trucks and SUVs.
The on- and off-road rugged terrain tire delivers better off-road grip than a traditional all-terrain tire, most evident in sand, mud, and deep snow, according to a Toyo release. The all-new Toyo Open Country R/T Trail will be available in 47 size and load combinations for light-truck and SUV owners who want more off-road capability, without the extra noise and harshness of a dedicated mud tire.
With the off-road ability to perform in varying terrain and a comfortable and quiet ride, the Open Country R/T Trail is a hybrid tire that is positioned between Toyo Tire’s M/T and A/T product categories and fills a role in between the popular Open Country R/T and the Open Country A/T III. The R/T Trail follows the Open Country R/T, introduced by Toyo Tires in 2014.
Advances were made in tread design for optimized on- and off-road durability, traction, and stability, providing improvements in grip and performance in both wet and dry conditions, according to Toyo. The tire will feature staggered scalloped shoulder blocks and extra-thick sidewall lugs that dig into soft terrain and uneven surfaces. Additional features contributing to its durability and off-road capabilities include wide circumferential grooves, lateral zig zag grooves and stone ejectors, four-way tapered notches, and a rim protector. A heavy gauge sidewall will also help protect from cuts, impacts, and punctures, according to the tire manufacturer.
“This exciting new tire was developed in the USA at our White, Georgia-based R&D facility,” said Todd Bergeson, senior manager of product planning and technical services for Toyo U.S.A. “Our development team and engineers spent an extensive amount of time “wheeling" with off-road enthusiast clubs across the country while testing in the harshest conditions to ensure we exceed the expectations with our design, capability, and durability.”
The Open Country R/T Trail lineup includes sizes for modified light trucks and SUVs from makes including Ford, Jeep, and Toyota. The most popular sizes will start to be available next month with additional sizes/fitments to follow in subsequent months.