Which All-Season Tyres Are Best for South African Roads in 2025? Top Picks, Deals, and Proven Safety Insights

Did you know the right all-season tyre could slash your stopping distance by over five metres? Discover this year’s safest, value-driven options—plus how to spot crucial winter certification and the smartest ways to save on your next set.

Which All-Season Tyres Are Best for South African Roads in 2025? Top Picks, Deals, and Proven Safety Insights

Overview of All-Season and SUV Tyres, Current Deals, and Selection Tips

In 2025, all-season tyres that demonstrate balanced wet and dry grip, certified winter capabilities (often marked by the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol), and competitive value are highly rated. Tyre Reviews’ recent tests list well-regarded options for both cars and SUVs, and dealers such as Minty’s are running specials on major brands. For drivers using SUVs or regularly travelling off-road, all-terrain tyres like the Falken Wildpeak AT4W and BFGoodrich KO2 have been positively reviewed for their performance and cost-effectiveness. It is advisable to check directly with retailers for the latest promotions on new models, such as the Michelin Primacy 5 and Pirelli Cinturato C3.


Key Features of Quality All-Season Tyres in 2025

Effective all-season tyres are designed to provide reliable safety and comfort throughout the year, handling diverse conditions from summer heat to occasional winter weather. Important qualities include:

  • Performance in all weather: Modern all-seasons are assessed for dry and wet grip, snow handling, and aquaplaning resistance.
  • 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certification: This indicates the ability to perform in moderate winter conditions, as confirmed by industry tests. Many new premium all-seasons display this symbol.
  • Tread life and warranties: Evaluating the tyre on cost per kilometre helps in assessing overall value, not just initial price.
  • Noise and comfort: Important for frequent highway use and family vehicles.
  • Rolling resistance: Lower ratings are associated with improved fuel efficiency.

Test Results from 2025: All-Season Tyres for Passenger Cars and SUVs

Passenger Car Tyres (Tyre Reviews 2024/25 Test)

  • Extensive testing: The Tyre Reviews All Season Tyre Test evaluated six leading 235/35 R19 all-season tyres on a VW Golf GTI across dry, wet, snow, and ice conditions.
  • Leading brands: Models from brands like Michelin, Continental, Pirelli, and Hankook generally scored highly for balanced performance and dependable winter handling.

SUV All-Season Tyres (Auto Bild AllRad 2024/25)

  • Braking and handling: The Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF3 recorded the shortest dry braking distance (37.7m), while Hankook Kinergy 4S2 achieved strong dry handling, approaching the performance of a summer tyre.
  • Differences among brands: Certain models, such as Minerva All Season Master, showed longer braking distances in testing; this underlines the importance of choosing tyres based on independent test results.

All-Terrain Tyres for Off-Road Driving (Tyre Reviews Test)

For those regularly transitioning between urban, highway, and rugged terrain—such as SUV or 4x4 drivers—the following all-terrain (A/T) tyres were positively reviewed:

  • Falken Wildpeak AT4W: Noted for its balance of on- and off-road performance and value, with an extended treadwear warranty.
  • BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2: Recognized for strong off-road grip in dirt and snow conditions.
  • Toyo Open Country AT: Praised for quietness and comfort alongside winter certification.
  • Kumho Roadventure AT52: Offers a lower initial price and good wet grip, though handling at extremes can vary.
  • Nitto Recon Grappler AT: Noted for aquaplaning resistance; this model does not have snow certification.

Focusing on Affordability and Long-Term Value

While upfront pricing is important, tyre durability and warranty support can make some mid-range or premium options more affordable in the long term. Results from 2025 indicate:

  • Cost-effectiveness: The Falken Wildpeak AT4W is highlighted for long-term value on SUVs due to its treadwear guarantee.
  • Budget options: Brands like Kumho and Nitto have lower initial prices, but may have shorter overall lifespans or less winter functionality.
  • Safety considerations: Lower-priced options such as Minerva All Season Master exhibited longer stopping distances in tests, emphasizing the benefit of considering safety as well as price.

Understanding the 3PMSF Snowflake Marking

The 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol indicates that a tyre meets designated performance standards in snow, based on standardized industry tests. Most major all-season tyres released for 2025 now display this mark, supporting suitability for moderate winter conditions typical in certain South African regions.

Note: For frequent or extreme winter driving, dedicated winter tyres are recommended, but for typical South African needs, a quality all-season tyre with 3PMSF certification offers practical all-weather capability.


New Models for 2025 and Verified Promotions

New 2025 launches such as the Michelin Primacy 5 (reported by the manufacturer to have over 20% longer wear than its predecessor) and Pirelli Cinturato C3 have been released, focusing on comfort and longevity. Availability may vary, so it is advisable to check with local tyre dealers.

Current deals (as at February 2025):

  • Minty’s Tyres advertises ongoing promotions for selected brands, a price-beat offer (subject to presenting a competitor’s quote), and in-store fitment. Offers are listed as valid through 27 February 2025, with final details and availability confirmed in-store.
  • Additional tip: Larger national retailers often stock the newest premium models and organize periodic specials. Confirm current pricing and in-stock sizes directly before planning your visit.

How Tyre Testing Is Conducted and Why It Matters

Tyre Reviews and Auto Bild evaluate products across categories including:

  • Braking and handling on dry, wet, snow, and ice surfaces
  • Noise and ride comfort
  • Rolling resistance (affecting fuel consumption)
  • Treadwear and value over time

Comparative testing using summer, winter, and all-season tyres enables drivers to assess year-round performance and select options most appropriate for their requirements.


Recommendations for South African Drivers

  • Look for the 3PMSF snowflake symbol on all-season and all-terrain tyres, especially if driving in variable or winter weather conditions.
  • Consult established retailers for the latest verified deals, fitment services, and model availability.
  • Prioritize long-term value and safety by comparing treadwear warranties, independent test results, and comprehensive performance characteristics.

Choosing Tyres for 2025

South African motorists have a range of independently verified all-season and SUV tyres to choose from in 2025, with brands such as Pirelli, Hankook, Falken, BFGoodrich, and Michelin offering reviewed year-round performance and value. Take time to explore current specials from trustworthy dealers, verify the presence of the 3PMSF snowflake marking for all-weather capability, and use third-party test data to make an informed, safety-focused tyre selection.


Sources

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