Continental TerrainContact H/T vs Continental TerrainContact A/T: In this article, we delve into the comparison between two distinguished tire models from Continental: the TerrainContact H/T and the TerrainContact A/T. Emerging from separate tire segments—Highway Terrain (H/T) and All Terrain (A/T) respectively—these tires cater to different driving conditions and preferences.
Despite their distinct characteristics, the similarity in the tire sizes offered by both models often leads to confusion among consumers unsure of which tire suits their needs best. Our goal is to elucidate the differences and similarities between the TerrainContact H/T and TerrainContact A/T, providing clear insights to help you make an informed decision tailored to your driving requirements.
Table of Contents
Results: Continental TerrainContact H/T vs Continental TerrainContact A/T
Ideally you would like to have a 1 v 1 test results to show its clear performance difference. However this time around as there is clear segmentation, there are no test results which ran these 2 products simultaneously. Lucky for us, consumer report has tested both tires separately and we would be able to use their ratings to judge how well both tires fared. Do note that the consumer report uses a maximum rating of 5 which means that a rating of 5/5 is the best possible achievement.
The graph above shows the comparison between Continental TerrainContact H/T vs Continental TerrainContact A/T based on the relevant performance category. The tire size of interest for this test is a 265/70R17 which is a common tire size for Toyota FJ Cruiser. For further insights into various tire sizes, feel free to consult our latest tire size table.
Wet
When comparing the wet performance of the Continental TerrainContact H/T and the Continental TerrainContact A/T tires, it’s important to note that both tires exhibit similar capabilities in some areas while differing in others. Starting with wet braking, both the TerrainContact H/T and A/T are rated equally, achieving a score of 3 out of 5. This indicates that when it comes to reducing speed from 60 to 0 mph on wet surfaces, both tires are expected to perform comparably, with no significant difference in stopping distance.
Wet Braking:
- TerrainContact H/T : 3/5
- TerrainContact A/T : 3/5
In terms of wet handling, which assesses performance during an avoidance maneuver and steering feel on a wet circuit, both tires again share the same rating of 4 out of 5. This suggests that drivers can expect a reliable and consistent handling experience from either tire in wet conditions, with neither tire outperforming the other in these specific tests.
Handling (Wet) :
- TerrainContact H/T : 4/5
- TerrainContact A/T : 4/5
However, the two tires start to diverge when we look at their hydroplaning performance. The Continental TerrainContact A/T outperforms the H/T in this regard, scoring a 4 out of 5 compared to the H/T’s 3 out of 5. This higher rating for the A/T tire indicates a better ability to maintain contact with the road surface in wet conditions, particularly at higher speeds or in deeper water, reducing the risk of hydroplaning.
Hydroplaning :
- TerrainContact H/T : 3/5
- TerrainContact A/T : 4/5
In summary, while the TerrainContact H/T and A/T tires are closely matched in wet braking and handling, the A/T tire offers a slight advantage in hydroplaning resistance, making it potentially a safer choice for drivers frequently encountering heavy rain or standing water on their routes.
Dry
In terms of dry performance, specifically focusing on dry braking, the Continental TerrainContact H/T and Continental TerrainContact A/T tires both score equally, with a rating of 4 out of 5. This indicates that when it comes to stopping performance on dry surfaces, from a speed of 60 to 0 mph, both tires offer comparable efficiency. There is no distinguishable difference in the distance required to come to a complete stop between the two, suggesting that either tire could be a reliable choice for drivers prioritizing strong braking performance in dry conditions.
Dry Braking :
- TerrainContact H/T : 4/5
- TerrainContact A/T : 4/5
MIleage
When examining the mileage performance of the Continental TerrainContact H/T and A/T tires, there is a noticeable difference in their longevity. The TerrainContact H/T has an actual tested mileage of 70,000 miles, which surpasses that of the TerrainContact A/T, which is tested to last up to 65,000 miles.
This indicates that the H/T tire offers an additional 5,000 miles of use compared to the A/T tire. This difference highlights the H/T’s slightly superior durability and lifespan, making it a potentially more cost-effective choice for drivers who prioritize mileage and the longevity of their tires.
Actual tested mileage:
- TerrainContact H/T : 70,000 miles
- TerrainContact A/T : 65,000 miles
Snow
In evaluating snow performance between the Continental TerrainContact H/T and the Continental TerrainContact A/T tires, the most significant difference observed in the overall test emerges. The TerrainContact H/T excels with a perfect score of 5 for snow traction, indicating superior performance in snow conditions compared to the TerrainContact A/T, which scores a 3.
This notable gap demonstrates that the H/T tire provides considerably better traction in snowy environments, ensuring enhanced grip and stability. The difference suggests that for drivers who frequently encounter snow-covered roads, the H/T tire would offer a more reliable and safer driving experience, marking the most pronounced distinction in performance across all tests conducted between these two tires.
Snow Traction :
- TerrainContact H/T : 5/5
- TerrainContact A/T : 3/5
Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH)
When examining the NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) performances of the Continental TerrainContact H/T and A/T tires, differences and similarities become apparent. In terms of noise, the TerrainContact H/T stands out with a perfect score of 5, indicating it produces less noise compared to the TerrainContact A/T, which scores a 4. This suggests that the H/T tire offers a quieter driving experience, reducing the amount of road noise that reaches the cabin and making it a more comfortable choice for drivers sensitive to noise.
Noise :
- TerrainContact H/T : 5/5
- TerrainContact A/T : 4/5
However, when it comes to ride comfort, both tires achieve a score of 3, demonstrating that they offer comparable levels of comfort in terms of absorbing road imperfections and providing a smooth ride. There is no distinguishable difference between the two in this aspect, indicating that both tires manage vibration and harshness similarly, ensuring a consistent level of comfort while driving.
Ride Comfort :
- TerrainContact H/T : 3/5
- TerrainContact A/T : 3/5
In summary, while the TerrainContact H/T and A/T tires are equivalent in ride comfort, the H/T tire has a slight advantage in terms of producing less noise, making it the better option for those prioritizing a quieter driving environment.
Rolling Resistance
The Continental TerrainContact H/T tire has a rolling resistance score of 3, indicating it is more efficient than the TerrainContact A/T, which scores a 2. This difference suggests the H/T tire is slightly more fuel-efficient and easier to drive due to its lower energy requirement for rolling. Despite the modest difference, the H/T tire stands out as a better option for those prioritizing fuel economy and smooth driving.
Rolling Resistance :
- TerrainContact H/T : 3/5
- TerrainContact A/T : 2/5
Price
The Continental TerrainContact A/T tire is priced at $260, making it 18% more expensive than the TerrainContact H/T, which costs $214 for the size 265/70R17. This price difference highlights the A/T tire as the higher-priced option between the two.
Tire size: 265/70R17
- TerrainContact H/T : $214
- TerrainContact A/T : $260
Difference: +18% more expensive for TerrainContact A/T.
Summary
As a tire expert, I’ve closely compared the Continental TerrainContact H/T and A/T tires across various performance metrics. The H/T excels in snow traction and has a slight advantage in noise reduction, offering a quieter ride. It also shows a minor edge in fuel efficiency due to its lower rolling resistance. On the other hand, the A/T stands out for its superior hydroplaning resistance, albeit at a higher price point.
It’s important to note that our comparisons did not include off-road testing in conditions like mud and gravel, where the TerrainContact A/T would likely have a distinct advantage due to its all-terrain design. This factor could significantly influence the preference for consumers seeking versatility in off-road capabilities.
Choosing between these tires depends on specific driving requirements. For those primarily driving in snowy conditions or valuing a quieter and slightly more fuel-efficient ride, the TerrainContact H/T is an excellent choice. However, for drivers anticipating regular encounters with wet conditions or requiring the added durability and performance of an all-terrain tire, despite a higher cost, the TerrainContact A/T emerges as the preferable option. Additionally, if off-road performance is a priority, the A/T’s design inherently suggests it would better suit your needs, keeping in mind its potential benefits in off-road scenarios that were not covered in our testing.
Dr Edwin Pang