Best Winter Tires for SUVs: The Car Guide's Top Picks for 2025-2026

Published on October 16, 2025 in Tires by The Car Guide

Following our top winter tire picks for cars, The Car Guide is back with a look at the best winter tires for SUVs.

Depending on where you live in Canada, winter tires may or may not be mandatory for a certain part of the year. Regardless, they have proven to outperform all-season and all-weather tires when temperatures drop below 7 degrees Celsius. And if you need a new set, it’s best to shop and book a service appointment early.

Some Useful Tips and Reminders

As we’ve always said, the price is only one factor to consider when shopping for winter tires. Grip, ride quality, noise and durability also must be part of your decision. It often pays off to spend more money on higher-quality winter tires and take good care of them than buying cheap tires from lesser brands and replacing them after a short time. Not to mention you’ll be driving a safer vehicle, too.

Take the time to visit tire retailers, both in person and online, and see what offers are available. Tire manufacturers also have deals. These can change from month to month or week to week. A retailer may be willing to negotiate or match the price if you've found a lower price elsewhere for the same model. Few consumers try this, but you might be surprised by the results.

What Are the Best Winter Tires for SUVs?

The Car Guide has compiled a selection of the best winter tires available for the 2025-2026 season, supported by recommendations from the experts at blackcircles.ca. These tires are typically suitable for most SUVs, crossovers, minivans and some pickups.

We may have left out a few models, but those listed below should all appear near the top of your shopping list. Incidentally, we’ve only identified one model per tire brand in order to cover as much of the market as possible.

1. Michelin X-Ice Snow

Our Opinion

Michelin sometimes draws mixed reviews, but many will tell you that its X-Ice Snow excels with its exceptional grip on snow, slush and ice. Its Flex-Ice 2.0 compound keeps the tire flexible even at extremely low temperatures and ensures a fairly quiet ride, while its full-depth 3D sipes deliver a secure and stable driving experience.

Pro(s)

Excellent braking performance on ice
Strong resistance to hydroplaning
Stable and relatively quiet ride

Con(s)

Dry grip could be better

Specs

Available in sizes ranging from 15-22 inches

2. Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2

Our Opinion

Often regarded as a top pick, the Blizzak DM-V2 provides SUVs and pickups with proven agility, plenty of bite on snow, as well as remarkable stopping power on ice and snow. This is due, among other things, to its exclusive Multicell technology. In addition, the block edges have been increased by 15% for better control.

Pro(s)

Excellent performance on ice
Quick water evacuation
Smooth ride with limited road noise

Con(s)

Limited durability

Specs

Available in sizes ranging from 16-22 inches

3. Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 SUV

Our Opinion

The Hakkapeliitta R5 SUV is a highly recommended studless winter tire for crossovers and SUVs. It is optimized for stability, durability and wear resistance, and can handle heavy loads. Additionally, the unique Arctic Grip crystals deliver fantastic performance on ice, while the aramid-reinforced sidewalls provide durability and increased puncture resistance.

Pro(s)

Excellent performance on snow and ice
Comfortable and EV-friendly
High durability

Con(s)

Dry grip could be better

Specs

Available in sizes ranging from 15-22 inches

4. Continental VikingContact 8

Our Opinion

The VikingContact 8 is a high-quality, reasonably priced winter tire that tackles snow, ice and wet roads with confidence. Its level of grip is hard to beat, resulting in safe handling in all conditions. This tire is compatible with a wide range of SUVs in addition to electric vehicles and sedans.

Pro(s)

Flawless traction on snow, ice and slush
Increased efficiency from low rolling resistance
Solid value

Con(s)

May be prone to hydroplaning

Specs

Available in sizes ranging from 18-23 inches

5. Pirelli Scorpion Winter 2

Our Opinion

This new-generation winter tire delivers high-level performance and is well-suited to premium or sporty SUVs. It excels on wet and snow-covered roads, with variable section grooves that effectively combat hydroplaning. And yet, the Scorpion Winter 2 still manages to be fairly quiet. Beware of the price.

Pro(s)

Excellent traction on snow
Good hydroplaning resistance
Low rolling resistance

Con(s)

Wears out much faster than most

Specs

Available in sizes ranging from 15-22 inches

6. Toyo Observe GSi6

Our Opinion

This tire is suitable for SUVs, minivans and select pickups. Featuring an optimized design for stability and grip, it is known for ensuring safe driving on all surfaces. Silent Wall technology effectively helps reduce noise levels, making for a more comfortable driving experience. Durability is also noteworthy.

Pro(s)

Warranty up to 120,000 km
Reliable performance on dry and wet roads
Comfortable and quiet ride

Con(s)

Handling on ice could be better

Specs

Available in sizes ranging from 16-22 inches

7. Yokohama iceGuard G075

Our Opinion

Another winter tire for SUVs that’s a good fit for Canadian roads, this model combines safe handling with comfort. What’s more, the 3D sipes technology improves traction and braking performance, enhancing safety when driving on snow and ice. Many agree on the fact that it's relatively quiet and durable, too.

Pro(s)

Innovative grooves that enhance grip
Good hydroplaning resistance
Great on dry roads and when braking

Con(s)

Not the best in deep snow