Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT vs BFGoodrich All-Terrain TA KO3: The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 has arrived in 2024, replacing the highly successful KO2, a long-standing benchmark in the all-terrain segment. But can the KO3 continue its legacy against the formidable Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT? This battle between two giants promises to redefine off-road dominance, with both tires pushing the limits of durability, traction, and performance on and off the road.
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Results: Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT vs BFGoodrich All-Terrain TA KO3
Results below were taken from Canadian Tire’s Road Rated test with a total of 10 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT vs BFGoodrich All-Terrain TA KO3 based on the relevant performance category. The Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Canadian Tire’s road-rated test consolidates all performance aspects—wet, dry, comfort, fuel economy, offroad, ice, and snow—into a single score for each category. While this approach provides a solid overall assessment, it does not isolate specific metrics like braking distance. However, the combined score still offers a reliable approximation of a tire’s performance across various conditions.
Off-Road dry
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 outperforms the Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT by 15% in dry off-road conditions, offering better traction and stability on loose gravel and hard–packed surfaces. This difference highlights the KO3’s improved grip and control, making it a more reliable option for challenging dry terrain. The DuraTrac RT holds its ground but falls short when compared directly to the KO3’s off-road dry performance.
All-Terrain TA KO3 :
- +15% in Off-Road Dry
Off-Road Wet
The Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT outperforms the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 by 4% in wet off-road conditions, showing better acceleration in deep mud and superior climbing ability on steep, wet, rocky slopes. While the KO3 performs well, the DuraTrac RT’s edge in wet terrain makes it the more capable tire when faced with challenging, slippery off-road environments.
All-Terrain TA KO3 :
- -4% in Off-Road Wet
Ice
The Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT performs slightly better than the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 on ice, with a 1% advantage in braking distance. While the difference is minimal, the DuraTrac RT provides a slight edge in grip and stopping power on icy surfaces, giving it a small but valuable lead in winter off-road conditions.
All-Terrain TA KO3 :
- -1% in ice
Snow
The Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT outperforms the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 by 2% on snow, showing better acceleration, traction, braking, and handling on snow-packed surfaces. While the KO3 remains a strong performer, the DuraTrac RT’s slight advantage makes it a more reliable choice for navigating snowy conditions with improved control and stability.
All-Terrain TA KO3 :
- -2% in snow braking
Wet
The Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT holds a slight 1% advantage over the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 on wet asphalt, demonstrating better resistance to hydroplaning, stronger braking, and improved grip and handling. Although the KO3 performs closely, the DuraTrac RT’s marginal edge provides better confidence and safety in wet conditions.
All-Terrain TA KO3 :
- -1% in wet braking
Dry
The Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT outperforms the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 by 2% on dry asphalt, delivering better braking, cornering, and overall handling during lane changes and high-speed maneuvers. Although the KO3 remains competitive, the DuraTrac RT’s slight edge provides better responsiveness and stability in dry on-road conditions.
All-Terrain TA KO3 :
- -2% in dry braking
Comfort
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 surpasses the Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT by 9% in comfort, providing a quieter and smoother ride over various surfaces. This noticeable difference makes the KO3 a better choice for drivers prioritizing reduced cabin noise and enhanced ride quality, while the DuraTrac RT, although capable, lags behind in overall comfort.
All-Terrain TA KO3 :
- +9% in comfort
Rolling Resistance
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 edges out the Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT by 1% in fuel economy, showing slightly lower rolling resistance. While the difference is minimal, the KO3 offers a small advantage in improving fuel efficiency or extending the range of an electric vehicle. The DuraTrac RT remains close but is marginally less efficient in this category.
All-Terrain TA KO3 :
- +1% in fuel economy
Price
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 is 2% more expensive than the Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT in size LT265/70 R18, with the KO3 priced at $296 compared to the DuraTrac RT at $291.
Tire size: LT265/70 R18
- Wrangler DuraTrac RT : $ 291
Difference: +2% more expensive for All-Terrain TA KO3
Conclusion
As a tire expert, I can confidently say that both the Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT and BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 bring strong advantages to the table. The DuraTrac RT excels in off-road wet, snow, and dry conditions, offering better grip and handling where it matters most for rugged terrain and winter performance. On the other hand, the KO3 stands out with superior comfort, lower rolling resistance, and stronger performance on dry off-road surfaces, making it a great choice for long-distance drives and fuel-conscious users.
Dr Edwin Pang