General Tires Review: Welcome to our in-depth General Tires review, one of the most trusted names in the tire industry. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive review of eight General Tire models, taking a close look at their performance, durability, and suitability for different driving conditions. But before we get to the reviews, let’s take a brief journey into the history of General Tires.
Founded in 1915, General Tires began as a venture with an initial investment from William F. O’Neil and his partner, Winfred E. Fouse, in Akron, Ohio, a city often referred to as the “Rubber Capital of the World”. From the beginning, the company was dedicated to producing quality tires designed to meet the needs of all drivers. Over the years, General Tires has earned a reputation for combining innovative technology with exceptional performance, leading to a wide array of patents and firsts in the tire industry.
One key event in the company’s history was its acquisition by the Continental AG in 1987. Continental, one of the top automotive suppliers worldwide, saw the value in General Tires’ commitment to quality and their technological advancements. This strategic acquisition served as an avenue for Continental to strengthen its footprint in the North American market. Since then, General Tires has functioned as part of the Continental family, carrying forward its legacy of innovation and excellence under the umbrella of Continental’s global reach.
As we embark on this comprehensive review, remember that choosing the right tire can significantly enhance your vehicle’s performance and safety. Whether you’re facing the rigors of daily commuting, the thrill of sporty driving, or the challenges of off-road trails, there’s a General Tire designed for your needs. Stay tuned as we delve into the features and performance of the AltiMAX RT45, AltiMAX 365 AW, G-MAX AS-05, G-Max RS, Grabber ATX, Grabber APT, Grabber X3, and the AltiMAX Arctic 12. Let’s roll!
Table of Contents
Grand touring all season tires (M+S):
General AltiMAX RT45
A Reliable All-Season Grand Touring Tire
Introduced in 2022, the General AltiMAX RT45 is a recent entry in the tire market, and an excellent example of a grand touring all-season tire (M+S) designed specifically for passenger vehicles, minivans, SUVs, and crossovers. This tire is a testament to General’s dedicated research and development efforts, exemplifying their commitment to crafting products tailored for specific regional needs, in this case, the North American market.
When it comes to performance, the AltiMAX RT45 particularly excels in wet conditions. Its advanced rubber compound and intelligent tread design deliver superior braking ability, significantly reducing stopping distances on wet roads. For drivers who frequently encounter rainy weather conditions or require reliable stopping power, the AltiMAX RT45 provides an extra level of safety and control.
However, while this model boasts many advantageous features, it’s worth noting that it may produce higher noise levels compared to some other tires. Although this doesn’t compromise the tire’s safety or performance, it could impact ride comfort, particularly on lengthy journeys. Drivers who highly value a quiet ride might want to take this factor into account when considering the AltiMAX RT45.
Nevertheless, General’s AltiMAX RT45 stands as a compelling choice in the grand touring all-season tire segment. Given its tailored design for the North American market, superior wet braking performance, and the assurance of the General Tires brand, it could be a suitable choice for many drivers. Its advantages may indeed outweigh the slightly higher noise level for those who prioritize performance in wet weather and reliable braking. It’s an all-season tire that offers reliable year-round performance, making it a strong consideration for drivers across a range of vehicle types.
- AltiMAX RT45
- Launch: 2022
- Press test wins: 0/1
- Strength: Strong wet.
Check out our head to head comparison of AltiMAX RT45 against its competitors.
AltiMAX RT45 vs
Price
- 225/40R18 : $180
Grand touring all season tires (3 peak mountain)
General AltiMAX 365 AW
3 peak mountain certified tireline
The tire industry is a competitive landscape, with many brands vying to produce the ultimate all-season tire. In this competitive market, General Tires made a significant advancement with their AltiMAX 365 AW grand touring all-season tire line. Introduced in 2021, this line is a step above from the brand’s previous all-season offerings, making it an exciting addition to General Tire’s portfolio. Notably, the AltiMAX 365 AW has earned the highly coveted 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certification, recognizing them as qualified winter tires – a key feature for drivers navigating harsh winter conditions.
Crafted for the grand touring all-season segment, the AltiMAX 365 AW is a versatile choice for a diverse range of vehicles. It caters to an impressive size range, from 15 to 20 inches, underlining General Tires’ commitment to accommodate a wide array of vehicle types and driver requirements.
Test results indicate that the AltiMAX 365 AW demonstrates considerable strength in dry braking and handling. Thanks to its specially engineered tread compound and innovative tread design, it ensures superior grip on dry roads, leading to reliable, responsive braking and precise handling. Drivers who value secure handling and dependable performance would find these attributes of the AltiMAX 365 AW particularly appealing.
However, it’s worth mentioning that although the AltiMAX 365 AW showcases praiseworthy dry performance, it may not lead the pack when it comes to wet traction. While it delivers satisfactory performance in wet conditions, some drivers might find its level of grip and handling in heavy rain or on slippery roads to be less than exceptional. Nevertheless, the General AltiMAX 365 AW stands as a robust contender in the all-season tire category, particularly for those prioritizing winter performance and dry handling. Its balanced capabilities and the added advantage of the 3PMSF certification make it a strong consideration for all-season driving requirements.
- AltiMAX 365 AW
- Launch: 2021
- Press test wins: 0/1
- Strength: Strong dry performer
Check out our head to head comparison of AltiMAX 365 AW against its competitors.
AltiMAX 365 AW vs
Price
- 225/40R18 : $190
Ultra High Performance All-Season:
General G-MAX AS-05
A Player in the Ultra High Performance All-Season Category
Bold and uncompromising, the General G-MAX AS-05 makes a clear statement in the ultra high-performance all-season tire segment. This tire is unabashedly sporty, designed with an assertive personality that clearly underscores its purpose: to deliver exceptional performance and handling in a range of conditions.
A key strength of the G-MAX AS-05 is its responsive and direct steering. This feature imparts an extra sense of control and urgency to a street-driven vehicle’s reflexes, potentially elevating the driving experience. In dry track conditions, the G-MAX AS-05’s athletic nature comes to the fore, though an increase in outright traction could help make the grip more proportional to the tire’s responsive nature. When it comes to wet conditions, the G-MAX AS-05 navigates with agility and delivers very good overall grip. However, the tire’s assertive front-end response can occasionally outpace the available traction, creating a slight discrepancy between the promised and actual performance.
Despite its many strengths, the G-MAX AS-05 isn’t without its weaknesses. There’s a degree of stiffness in the ride quality, which, although within the acceptable range for its category, may be felt as a slight discomfort for some drivers. Moreover, some distinct medium-volume tread noise can be heard across different surfaces, which might be a point of concern for drivers sensitive to sound quality. Lastly, the G-MAX AS-05’s performance in light snow conditions leaves room for improvement. While this tire exhibits many commendable characteristics, its snow traction falls short of the mark, suggesting a potential area for General Tires to enhance in the future.
In conclusion, the General G-MAX AS-05 is a tire with a clearly defined character and purpose. Its ultra high-performance qualities are evident in its responsive handling and sporty nature. While it exhibits certain shortcomings in ride comfort, noise level, and snow traction, it remains a competitive offering for drivers seeking a tire with an overtly sporty personality and robust all-season performance.
- G-MAX AS-05
- Launch: 2017
- Press test wins: 0/2
- Strength: Good handling.
Check out our head to head comparison of G-MAX AS-05 against its competitors.
G-MAX AS-05 vs
Price
- 225/40R18 : $151
Ultra High Performance Summer:
General G-Max RS
A Competitive Entrant in the Ultra High-Performance Summer Segment
Stepping into the spotlight of the ultra high-performance summer tire segment is the General G-Max RS. Known for being a value-for-money offering from the Continental subsidiary, General Tires, this model holds its own as a formidable competitor in its category. One of the key strengths of the G-Max RS is its impressive performance in wet conditions, outpacing many of its rivals. It’s also on par with competitors when it comes to dry braking, ensuring that drivers can count on it for responsive, reliable stops. This combination of wet handling and dry braking performance gives the G-Max RS a competitive edge in a market where these attributes are highly prized.
Another notable advantage of the G-Max RS is its ride quietness. While many high-performance tires compromise comfort for performance, the G-Max RS manages to offer a quieter ride, making it a more enjoyable choice for drivers who spend considerable time behind the wheel. Furthermore, it stands out in terms of fuel efficiency, a feature that enhances its overall value. Despite its commendable qualities, it’s worth noting that the G-Max RS, like many others in its class, compromises on ride comfort for heightened performance. This characteristic is typical of max performance summer tires and might not be ideal for drivers seeking a softer, more comfortable ride.
Additionally, while the G-Max RS is a more affordable option within the performance segment, it might not be the top pick for those seeking superior longevity. Although it offers considerable value for its cost, especially when backed by the premium General Tires brand, drivers who prioritize tire lifespan might want to explore other options. In conclusion, the General G-Max RS is a potent competitor in the ultra high-performance summer tire market. Offering notable wet performance, equal dry braking, a quieter ride, and better fuel efficiency, it stands as a value-packed option. The choice, ultimately, would depend on individual driver preferences and specific driving requirements.
- General G-Max RS
- Launch: 2017
- Press test wins: 0/2
- Strength: Wet & Noise.
Check out our head to head comparison of G-Max RS against its competitors.
G-Max RS vs
Price
- 225/40R18 : $163
All Terrain:
General Grabber A/TX
A Strong Contender in the All-Terrain Segment
As we delve into the all-terrain segment, the General Grabber A/TX emerges as a noteworthy candidate worth considering. Known for its impressive capabilities, this tire is well-suited for anyone seeking a high-quality, all-terrain tire. The General Grabber A/TX has proven itself with its excellent overall performance. It shines in various critical areas, such as snow handling and acceleration, dry handling, and noise, comfort, and ride quality. This comprehensive performance suite underlines its superiority in diverse driving scenarios.
In terms of braking, the Grabber A/TX might not take the crown for ice and dry surface braking when pitted against some of its competitors. However, the difference is small and unlikely to drastically affect the overall driving experience. Adding to its merits, the Grabber A/TX has earned the coveted Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, signifying its capability to manage severe snow conditions. This certification is achieved by passing standardized traction tests on medium-packed snow, and it’s a testament to the Grabber A/TX’s reliability in snowy conditions – a critical consideration for drivers in colder climates.
Your final decision should ultimately be based on your specific driving needs and the conditions you frequently encounter. If performance in snowy conditions and ride quality are your primary considerations, the General Grabber A/TX could be an excellent choice. However, it’s crucial to consider all aspects of performance – from dry and wet conditions to noise and comfort – before making a final decision. The right tire can not only enhance your vehicle’s performance but also contribute to the safety and comfort of your journey. We recommend you read our in-depth review of the General Grabber A/TX for a more comprehensive understanding of this tire’s capabilities and performance. Choose wisely!
- General Grabber A/TX
- Launch: 2018
- Press test wins: 0/2
- Strength: Wet & Noise.
Check out our head to head comparison of Grabber A/TX against its competitors.
Grabber A/TX vs
Price
- 265/65R17 : $225
Light truck/SUV All Terrain:
General Grabber APT
A Robust All-Purpose Terrain Tire for Light Trucks/SUVs
Stepping into the spotlight of the Light Truck/SUV All-Terrain tire segment is the General Grabber APT. Launched in 2017, the Grabber APT was carefully designed to cater to the North American market’s diverse driving conditions and demands. General describes it as a “strong and durable all-purpose-terrain tire, providing competent all-terrain off-road capability, balanced with excellent on-road performance.” It’s not just the performance that stands out; the APT also boosts the aesthetic appeal of trucks or SUVs with its aggressive design.
One of the Grabber APT’s key selling points is its notable dry performance. Its unique tread design and compound enhance traction and handling on dry surfaces, making it a reliable choice in a variety of conditions. The tire’s continuous center rib and interlocking tread blocks contribute to improved stability and responsiveness, ensuring drivers can navigate various terrains with confidence. When compared against its sibling, the General Grabber A/TX, which is lauded as the “next-generation, aggressive all-terrain tire,” the APT sets itself apart with its balance of on-road performance and all-terrain off-road capabilities. While the A/TX is known for exceptional off-road prowess and durability with added grip for loose surfaces, the APT shines with its on-road performance and ability to handle diverse terrains adeptly.
However, a potential drawback of the Grabber APT is its performance on wet surfaces. It may not exhibit the same level of grip and hydroplaning resistance as some of its competitors within the ATR segment. As a result, it might not be the top choice for drivers who frequently face rainy or damp conditions.
In conclusion, the General Grabber APT stands as a compelling choice within the Light Truck/SUV All-Terrain tire segment. While its wet performance might not outshine all competitors, its strong dry performance, combined with its tailored design for the North American market, make it a viable option for those prioritizing dry handling and adaptability across a range of conditions. For a deeper dive into the APT’s capabilities, stay tuned for our detailed review.
- General Grabber APT
- Launch: 2017
- Press test wins: 0/2
- Strength: Dry
Check out our head to head comparison of Grabber APT against its competitors.
Grabber APT vs
Price
- 265/65R17 : $217
Mud Terrain:
General Grabber X3
A Dominant Force in the Mud-Terrain Segment
Within the mud-terrain tire segment, the General Grabber X3 emerges as a noteworthy contender. Its design and functionality have been crafted with precision to meet the demands of challenging terrains and weather conditions, making it a favored choice among off-road enthusiasts.
The Grabber X3 excels in various conditions – be it wet, dry, or snowy terrains. This versatility points to the tire’s comprehensive design strategy, aiming to deliver robust performance across the board. Although it was not specifically tested off-road in this particular instance, the excellent snow performance can give potential users a solid hint about its capabilities in muddy conditions. One of the standout features of the Grabber X3 is its exceptional grip. Regardless of whether the road is dry or wet, this tire offers a reliable and secure driving experience. Furthermore, the tire’s performance in snowy and icy conditions underscores its adaptability and resilience in challenging weather scenarios.
However, one potential limitation to consider with the Grabber X3 is that it does not carry the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. This symbol is an indication of a tire’s capability to handle severe snow conditions, and the absence of it might be a drawback for drivers who often encounter heavy snow. Even with this in mind, the General Grabber X3 stands out as a cost-effective option in the mud-terrain tire category. Its all-rounded performance, coupled with its competitive price point, make it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and resilient mud-terrain tire. Please stay tuned for our detailed review to gain a deeper insight into the General Grabber X3’s performance and capabilities.
- General Grabber X3
- Launch: 2016
- Press test wins: 0/1
- Strength: Wet, Dry & Snow
Check out our head to head comparison of Grabber X3 against its competitors.
Grabber X3 vs
Price
- LT265/60R18 : $333
Snow/Studdable:
General Altimax Arctic 12
An Adaptable, Affordable Winter Tire Solution
The General AltiMAX Arctic 12 makes its entrance as a unique, cost-effective winter tire, providing superior adaptability and value. As a studdable winter tire, it presents drivers with the best of both spheres. It functions impeccably and safely without studs, yet offers enhanced traction with the inclusion of studs. Unveiled in 2016, this tire provides drivers the adaptability to adjust to their specific driving conditions and local regulations, offering a versatile response to winter driving challenges.
Uniquely crafted to allow the addition of studs if necessary, the AltiMAX Arctic 12 is a desirable selection for drivers in areas frequently dealing with harsh winter climates. Should conditions or regulations shift, studs can be easily removed, bestowing a degree of versatility not found in numerous other winter tires. It’s essential for drivers to be aware of and follow their local laws concerning the use of studded tires. The AltiMAX Arctic 12 is notable for delivering excellent value. Despite its affordable cost, it guarantees consistent performance in wintery conditions and a smooth driving experience. This makes it an outstanding option for drivers on a budget who are unwilling to sacrifice safety or comfort.
To conclude, the General AltiMAX Arctic 12 shines as a flexible, studdable winter tire that provides an unparalleled combination of adaptability, performance, and affordability. Whether dealing with a mild winter or facing severe ice and snow, this tire ensures the flexibility to suit your needs while delivering great value for your money.
- Altimax Arctic 12
- Launch: 2016
- Press test wins: 0/2
- Strength: Value for money.
Check our head to head comparison of Altimax Arctic 12 against its competitors.
Altimax Arctic 12 vs
Price
- 235/45R18 : $195
Conclusion
Through this comprehensive review of various tire offerings from General Tires, we have explored the strengths and weaknesses of each product in different contexts. From the all-season Grand Touring options like AltiMAX RT45 and AltiMAX 365 AW to the Ultra High Performance All-Season G-MAX AS-05 and the Summer Performance G-Max RS, General Tires has displayed a wide range of proficiency. This proficiency extends to the All-Terrain and Mud-Terrain offerings of the Grabber series and concludes with the studdable winter tire AltiMAX Arctic 12.
Each tire offers unique features to cater to different driving conditions, preferences, and requirements. Despite minor shortfalls, each product shows a strong commitment to quality, performance, and value for money, which is a testament to General Tires’ dedication to its customers. Whether it’s enhanced wet braking performance, exceptional dry handling, aggressive off-road capability, or flexibility in winter conditions, General Tires seems to have a product for every need. This wide-ranging and high-quality portfolio is a strong indication of General Tires’ ability to cater to a diverse range of customers with varying needs and expectations.
Therefore, based on the performance metrics and user experiences we’ve examined, we can confidently say that General Tires’ offerings should be seriously considered by any prospective tire buyer. Whether you prioritize performance, durability, comfort, or a balance of all these factors, General Tires is likely to have an option that fits your needs.