Nitto Nomad Grappler vs BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A: Introduced in 2022, the Nitto Nomad Grappler is the latest addition to Nitto’s dynamic lineup of all-terrain road (ATR) tires. Nitto has gained reputation in the industry for its unique dual sidewall design and the Nomad Grappler does not disappoint. Crafted for a blend of 70% on-road and 30% off-road performance, it showcases high scores on off-road and wet performance, while ensuring a comfortable and quieter ride on highways. Notably, the tire features exceptional all-weather compatibility, excellent wet and dry traction, and a promising 60,000-mile limited treadwear warranty, which highlights its longevity and reliability.
On the other hand, the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A, launched earlier in 2021, has set a high standard in the ATR segment. It is also design for this ATR segment with 70% on road & 30% off road usage. This BFGoodrich offering is appreciated for its balanced blend of comfort, durability, and off-road prowess. The comparison between the Nitto Nomad Grappler and the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A reveals the evolving trends in the ATR tire market, showcasing the commitment of both companies to meet the changing demands of consumers. Let’s begin this duel!
Table of Contents
Results: Nitto Nomad Grappler vs BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A
Results below were taken from tire rack’s “Testing On-Road All-Terrain Tires 2023” test. A total of 3 tires were tested this time around. The graph below shows the comparison between Nitto Nomad Grappler vs Falken WildPeak A/T Trail based on the relevant performance category. The Nomad Grappler was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
As both tires are categorized as all season tires, Tire Rack has planned the snow & ice in its testing portfolio. A detailed testing on snow including acceleration, braking & handling will be available only at the end of the 2023 winter season. The tire size of interest is a 255/65R18 which is a common tire size for GMC Savana 1500. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle for this tire test is a SUV in the form of 2022 Ford Explorer ST.
Wet
Based on the provided data, we can see a clear distinction in wet performance between the Nitto Nomad Grappler and the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A.
When it comes to wet braking, the Nitto Nomad Grappler exhibits superior performance, needing only 110.90 feet to stop completely. In contrast, the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A requires a significantly longer distance, 134.00 feet, to achieve the same result. This difference could be critical in sudden braking situations, particularly on slippery surfaces, which makes the Nitto Nomad Grappler a more desirable option in terms of safety and control under wet conditions.
For wet handling, the subjective score further emphasizes Nitto’s lead in this aspect. The Nomad Grappler has been rated at 7.06 out of 10, while the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A scored a bit lower at 5.84. This indicates that drivers may find the Nomad Grappler more predictable and easier to handle under wet conditions. Lastly, the lap time under wet conditions further attests to Nitto Nomad Grappler’s superiority in wet performance. With a lap time of 34.20 seconds, it outperforms the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A, which clocks in at 36.36 seconds. This suggests that not only does the Nomad Grappler provide better control, but it also allows for faster speeds on wet terrains.
Below are an in depth look on wet handling evaluation by the test drivers:
Nomad Grappler:
The Nitto Nomad Grappler offered a distinct approach to wet cornering, contrasting sharply with the Falken. Instead of nuanced communication and coordinated utilization of all four tires, the Nitto’s handling was more about confronting the corner head-on with a forceful, rapid response. This approach made it feel significantly swifter and more responsive than the other tested tires. Despite lacking some of the Falken’s finesse and occasionally pushing beyond its grip limits, the Nitto Nomad Grappler was still gratifying to drive. It demonstrated its effectiveness as a unique strategy for quick circuit navigation.
Test driver feedback on Nomad Grappler
Trail-Terrain T/A:
The BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A lagged noticeably in comparison to the other tires in the group, evidently playing the role of the least performing participant. Its lateral traction was markedly lower, and its braking distances stretched out a significant 21% longer than the closest rival. The diminished levels of objective grip led to considerably slower cornering and, consequently, prolonged lap times. Braking with this tire demanded preemptive effort from the drivers, who quickly had to adjust their grip expectations mid-corner to avoid severe understeer. This necessitated corrective actions that impeded momentum and extended the lap.
Test driver feedback on Trail-Terrain T/A
In summary, across the three key wet performance parameters—wet braking, subjective wet handling, and wet lap time—the Nitto Nomad Grappler outperforms the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A, making it a more appealing choice for those who frequently encounter wet driving conditions.
Trail-Terrain T/A :
- -17.2% in wet braking
- -6.1% in wet handling (subj)
- -5.9% in wet handling (lap time)
Dry
When it comes to dry performance, the Nitto Nomad Grappler and the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A display different strengths.
In terms of dry braking, the Nitto Nomad Grappler emerges as the clear winner. It requires only 88.90 feet to come to a complete stop, whereas the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A necessitates a longer distance of 96.70 feet. This difference in braking distance underlines the superior stopping power of the Nitto tire on dry surfaces, which could potentially enhance the overall safety and control during driving.
However, in the subjective handling department, the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A outperforms the Nitto Nomad Grappler, scoring 6.31 out of 10 compared to Nomad’s 7.19. This suggests that drivers might find the BFGoodrich tire more comfortable or more responsive when maneuvering on dry roads. Lastly, considering the lap time on dry terrain, the Nitto Nomad Grappler takes the lead again, clocking in at 31.79 seconds, while the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A trails slightly behind with a lap time of 32.91 seconds. This indicates that the Nomad Grappler allows for faster speeds on dry terrains.
Below are an in depth look on dry handling evaluation by the test drivers:
Nomad Grappler:
Our team observed that the Nomad Grappler’s crisp and decisive steering felt precise and reactive, especially given the increased corner traction that bolstered its input.
Test driver feedback on Nomad Grappler
Trail-Terrain T/A:
Once more, the Trail-Terrain T/A fell short in terms of traction objectively, though the general increase in grip did somewhat conceal the difference. Although the BFGoodrich tire was inherently less quick to react and its understeer was less evident than earlier, merging inputs would still result in slow yet secure understeer. This could be beneficial in dealing with unexpected maneuvers on the road.
Test driver feedback on Trail-Terrain T/A
In conclusion, the Nitto Nomad Grappler stands out in dry braking and lap time, while the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A has a slight edge in terms of subjective handling. Both tires offer unique strengths, and the choice between the two may ultimately come down to the individual preferences and priorities of the drivers.
Trail-Terrain T/A :
- -8.1% in dry braking
- -4.4% in dry handling (subj)
- -3.4% in dry handling (lap time)
Noise/Comfort/Ride Quality
NVH, or noise, vibration, and harshness, are key indicators of a tire’s comfort level and ride quality. When comparing the Nitto Nomad Grappler with the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A in these aspects, we find a close competition.
Both the Nitto Nomad Grappler and the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A score equally in ride quality, each earning a solid 7 out of 10. This demonstrates that both tires offer a comparable level of comfort when driving. In terms of noise levels, the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A marginally outperforms the Nitto Nomad Grappler, scoring a 7.13 compared to Nomad’s 6.75. This indicates that the BFGoodrich tire might provide a slightly quieter ride, which could be an important consideration for drivers who prioritize a serene driving experience. When we consider steering and road handling, the Nitto Nomad Grappler takes the lead, scoring 7.13 over the BFGoodrich’s 6.63. This shows that the Nomad Grappler may provide a smoother handling and a more responsive steering experience, contributing to a more pleasant and controlled driving experience.
Looking at the overall NVH score, which is an average of noise, comfort, and ride quality, both tires perform very closely. The Nitto Nomad Grappler scores slightly higher with a 6.96, while the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A comes in at 6.92. In conclusion, while the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A offers marginally less noise, the Nitto Nomad Grappler provides superior steering and road handling, and edges out slightly in overall NVH performance. Both tires, however, offer quite a similar level of comfort and ride quality. Thus, the choice between the two could come down to specific driver preferences.
Trail-Terrain T/A:
- -0.2% in average of Noise, Comfort & Ride Quality.
Ice & Snow
Both the Nitto Nomad Grappler and the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A proudly bear the distinguished 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake emblem, signifying their superior capability to perform under harsh snow and ice conditions. This certification demonstrates that these tires have successfully passed stringent testing for snow traction, affirming their readiness to tackle severe snowy weather.
While their accredited prowess in snow and ice performance is unquestionable, the real-world winter performance comparison between these two contenders promises to be a riveting display. A direct face-off under frosty and snowy environments will undoubtedly make for a fascinating contest, and we anticipate a tough battle.
So, dear auto enthusiasts and avid readers, be prepared for an exciting showdown! With the 2023 winter season fast approaching, Tire Rack will be conducting comprehensive tests on these two winter-ready giants, bringing you the most detailed results. Who will claim the crown for the best snow and ice performance? The excitement is palpable, and we’re eagerly waiting to unveil the results to you!
UTQG rating
The Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) standards give consumers valuable information regarding the treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance of tires. Comparing the UTQG values for the Nitto Nomad Grappler and the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A, we observe some differences.
| Brand | Tireline | Size | Tread Wear | Traction | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nitto | Nomad Grappler | All | 540 | A | B |
| BFGoodrich | Trail-Terrain T/A | All | 660 | A | A |
In terms of treadwear, which is a relative measure of a tire’s lifespan, the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A performs better, with a rating of 660 compared to the Nitto Nomad Grappler’s 540. This suggests that the BFGoodrich tire may offer a longer life under similar driving conditions. However, it’s important to remember that both tires come with a 60,000-mile warranty, ensuring their longevity.
For traction, which measures a tire’s ability to stop on wet surfaces, both tires have an “A” grade, suggesting that they both provide excellent wet traction. Regarding temperature resistance, which rates a tire’s ability to dissipate heat, the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A outperforms the Nitto Nomad Grappler with an “A” rating compared to the Nomad Grappler’s “B”. This means the BFGoodrich tire may be better at resisting heat build-up, which can extend tire life and ensure safety at high speeds.
In summary, while the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A has a higher UTQG treadwear rating and better temperature resistance, the Nitto Nomad Grappler matches it in traction and both have the same 60,000-mile warranty. This means the choice between the two will likely depend on the specific needs and driving conditions of the consumer.
Price
The Nitto Nomad Grappler and the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A, both sized at 235/60R18, are priced identically at $213. This indicates that cost would not be a differentiating factor when deciding between these two tires. Instead, your decision should be based on their respective performances, features, and the specific driving conditions you anticipate. Despite the same price point, each tire offers unique strengths in various performance categories that might make one more suitable for your needs than the other.
Tire size: 235/60R18
- Nomad Grappler: $213
- Trail-Terrain T/A : $213
Difference: Same price.
Summary
In conclusion, after an extensive comparison in various performance categories, the Nitto Nomad Grappler clearly takes the upper hand in this tire showdown against the BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A. With its superior wet and dry performance, outstanding steering and road handling, and exceptional all-weather compatibility, the Nomad Grappler truly stands out as an all-terrain tire.
While both tires share the same price point and offer an impressive 60,000-mile warranty, the Nomad Grappler’s edge in various performance tests makes it a more appealing choice. However, it’s important to note that the off-road performance has not yet been compared, an aspect that could further highlight the Nomad Grappler’s capabilities.
But, the duel isn’t over just yet! As we eagerly await the arrival of the 2023 winter season, we will be conducting rigorous testing of these two tires under icy and snowy conditions. Who will come out on top in the ultimate winter performance test? Stay tuned for these exciting results and find out if the Nitto Nomad Grappler can further solidify its reigning position. The thrill continues, and we can’t wait to share these insights with you!