Nitto Terra Grappler G2 vs Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+: In the world of all-terrain tires, two names stand out for their exceptional performance, durability, and versatility: Nitto Terra Grappler G2 and Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+. The Nitto Terra Grappler G2 was launched in 2014, while the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ made its debut in 2018. Both tire models are designed to provide a superior driving experience on various terrains, from rocky off-road trails to smooth highways. The Nitto Terra Grappler G2 is a product of Nitto Tire, a brand known for its commitment to off-road performance and innovation. It features a unique tread design, reinforced coupling joints for increased block edge rigidity, and full-depth sipes for improved wet and dry traction. These tires are designed to tackle the most challenging off-road conditions while providing a comfortable ride on the pavement.
On the other hand, the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ is the result of Pirelli’s extensive experience in producing high-quality tires for different driving conditions. This tire features an aggressive tread pattern with deep grooves and an optimized rubber-to-void ratio for maximum grip on various surfaces. The Scorpion All Terrain+ also boasts high resistance to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance. In this head-to-head comparison, we will dive deeper into the performance, features, and suitability of the Nitto Terra Grappler G2 and Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ to help you make the best choice for your off-road adventures.
Table of Contents
Off road segmentation
When it comes to a pick up truck, the main segmentation of tires comes in the form of on/off road terrain groups. However in this class of tires, there is an even further distribution as below:
| Segment | Off road | On road |
| ATR (all terrain road) | 30% | 70% |
| AT (all terrain) | 50% | 50% |
| MT (mud terrain) | 70% | 30% |
In this analysis, both the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ and Nitto Terra Grappler G2 fall under the All Terrain Road (ATR) tire segment. The ATR segment is a relatively new category that emerged primarily due to the R117 regulation in Europe. This regulation enforces a maximum noise level threshold for tires, pushing the industry to adopt lower void designs to meet these requirements. Consequently, ATR tires have a 70% on-road and 30% off-road focus, making them suitable for drivers who require versatile performance without sacrificing on-road comfort and noise levels.
The All Terrain (AT) segment, on the other hand, caters to drivers who enjoy a balance of off-road and on-road activities, with a 50% focus on each. This segment is a popular choice for pickup truck owners who engage in off-road adventures on a monthly basis, as it provides the necessary traction and durability for various terrains. Additionally, there is the Mud Terrain (MT) segment, which prioritizes off-road performance with a 70% off-road and 30% on-road focus. This segment is designed for those who frequently tackle challenging off-road conditions and require maximum traction and control in such environments.
Results
Results below were taken from the 2022/23 Best 9 All Terrain Tyres test. A total of 9 tires were tested this time around. The graph below shows the comparison between Nitto Terra Grappler G2 vs Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ based on the relevant performance category. The Terra Grappler G2 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Thanks to TyreReview, we had the luxury to evaluate the off-road performances of both tires. The tires were tested on gravel & dirt to simulate typical off-road condition at Continental’s Uvalde, Texas proving ground. The tire size of interest is a 275/65 R18 which is a common tire size for Ford Expedition and F-150 . You can check out our latest tire size table for more information.
Dry
Based on the provided results, the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ demonstrates a superior dry performance compared to the Nitto Terra Grappler G2. In dry braking tests, the Scorpion All Terrain+ stopped 0.3 meters shorter when decelerating from 100 km/h to a complete stop. This shorter stopping distance indicates better grip and control on dry surfaces, which contributes to enhanced safety and confidence for drivers.
Furthermore, in dry handling tests, the Scorpion All Terrain+ outperformed the Nitto Terra Grappler G2 by completing lap times 0.92 seconds faster. This achievement placed the Scorpion All Terrain+ 2nd overall in the competition, showcasing its excellent dry handling capabilities.
Overall, the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ offers better dry performance compared to the Nitto Terra Grappler G2, with more effective braking and handling on dry surfaces. Drivers who prioritize dry surface performance should consider the Scorpion All Terrain+ as a top contender for their tire choice.
Scorpion All Terrain+ :
- +0.7% in dry braking
- +1.4% in dry handling
Wet
Wet performance is a crucial aspect of tire evaluation, as it determines a tire’s ability to maintain grip, control, and safety on wet surfaces. In regions with frequent rain or wet road conditions, exceptional wet performance is vital for driver confidence and overall driving experience.
Comparing the wet performance of Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ and Nitto Terra Grappler G2, the Scorpion All Terrain+ demonstrates a significant advantage over its competitor:
- Wet Braking: The Scorpion All Terrain+ stopped 11 meters shorter in wet braking tests when decelerating from 80 km/h to a complete stop. This difference is substantial and highlights the superior grip and control provided by the Scorpion All Terrain+ on wet surfaces.
- Wet Handling: In wet handling tests, the Scorpion All Terrain+ completed lap times 4.4 seconds faster than the Nitto Terra Grappler G2.
- Subjective Wet Handling Evaluation: The Scorpion All Terrain+ scored 3 points higher in subjective wet handling evaluation, placing 1st in the overall competition, showcasing its exceptional wet handling capabilities.
- Wet Circle Test: The Scorpion All Terrain+ was 0.73 seconds faster in the wet circle test, indicating its better grip and stability on wet surfaces.
- Aquaplaning: The Scorpion All Terrain+ registered an aquaplaning slip speed of 83.8 km/h compared to the 82.9 km/h of the Nitto Terra Grappler G2, demonstrating its better resistance to aquaplaning.
- Lateral Aquaplaning: The Scorpion All Terrain+ outperformed the Nitto Terra Grappler G2 with a lateral acceleration that was 2.3 m/s² faster, highlighting its lateral water dispersive capability.
Considering the results, the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ demonstrates outstanding wet performance compared to the Nitto Terra Grappler G2. Drivers who frequently encounter wet road conditions or prioritize wet surface performance should consider the Scorpion All Terrain+ as their top choice.
Scorpion All Terrain+ :
- +18% in wet braking
- +5% in wet handling (lap time)
- +15% in wet handling (subjective)
- +5% in wet circle
- +1% in straight aquaplaning
- +7% in curved aquaplaning
Off-road
Gravel
Gravel surfaces are an essential aspect to consider when evaluating all-terrain tires, as they are commonly encountered during off-road adventures, construction sites, and rural roads. All-terrain tires must provide a balance of performance, durability, and comfort on gravel surfaces to ensure a smooth and controlled driving experience.
Comparing the gravel performance of Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ and Nitto Terra Grappler G2, the Scorpion All Terrain+ demonstrates an advantage in this category:
- Gravel Handling: In gravel handling tests, the Scorpion All Terrain+ completed lap times 0.9 seconds faster than the Nitto Terra Grappler G2, indicating better control and grip on gravel surfaces.
- Subjective Gravel Handling Evaluation: The Scorpion All Terrain+ scored 0.5 points higher in the subjective gravel handling evaluation, showcasing its better handling capabilities and driver confidence on gravel surfaces.
Based on these results, the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ outperforms the Nitto Terra Grappler G2 in terms of gravel performance. The Scorpion All Terrain+ offers improved handling and driver confidence on gravel surfaces, making it a more suitable option for those who frequently encounter gravel roads or off-road conditions.
Scorpion All Terrain+ :
- +1.4% in gravel handling (lap time)
- +2.5% in gravel handling (subjective)
Dirt
Dirt surfaces are a common terrain for all-terrain tires, as they are often encountered during off-road activities, camping trips, and unpaved roads. All-terrain tires must provide reliable performance, traction, and control on dirt surfaces to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
Comparing the dirt performance of Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ and Nitto Terra Grappler G2, we see mixed results:
- Dirt Handling: In dirt handling tests, the Scorpion All Terrain+ completed lap times 0.3 seconds slower than the Nitto Terra Grappler G2, indicating a tiny lower effective control and grip on dirt surfaces.
- Subjective Dirt Handling Evaluation: Despite its slower lap times, the Scorpion All Terrain+ scored 0.5 points higher in the subjective dirt handling evaluation, suggesting that drivers may feel more confident and perceive better handling on dirt surfaces when using the Scorpion All Terrain+.
Based on these results, the Nitto Terra Grappler G2 shows better dirt handling performance in terms of lap times, whereas the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ scores higher in subjective evaluations. This contrast indicates that both tires may offer different advantages on dirt surfaces, and drivers should consider their specific needs and preferences when making a decision.
Scorpion All Terrain+ :
- -0.5% in dirt handling (lap time)
- +2.5% in dirt handling (subjective)
Noise & Comfort
When evaluating all-terrain tires, noise and comfort play a significant role in ensuring a pleasant driving experience, especially during long trips or daily commutes. Comparing the noise and comfort performance of Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ and Nitto Terra Grappler G2, we observe the following results:
- Comfort and Subjective Noise: The Scorpion All Terrain+ scored 0.5 points higher in comfort and subjective noise evaluation. This suggests that drivers may experience a smoother and quieter ride with the Scorpion All Terrain+ compared to the Nitto Terra Grappler G2.
- Exterior Noise: However, the Scorpion All Terrain+ produced 0.8 dB more exterior noise than the Nitto Terra Grappler G2, indicating that it may be louder from an outside perspective.
In summary, the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ offers better comfort and subjective noise performance, which may be more suitable for drivers who prioritize a smooth and quiet ride. However, the Nitto Terra Grappler G2 has the advantage of lower exterior noise, which could be important for those who want to minimize noise pollution or adhere to strict noise regulations in certain areas. Ultimately, drivers should weigh their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two all-terrain tires.
Scorpion All Terrain+ :
- +2.5% in comfort (subjective)
- +2.5% in subjective noise
- -1% in exterior noise (+0.8 dB)
Rolling Resistance
Rolling resistance is a crucial factor in determining a tire’s impact on fuel efficiency, CO2 emissions, and overall sustainability efforts. Lower rolling resistance contributes to reduced fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, making it an essential consideration for environmentally conscious drivers and those aiming to reduce their vehicle’s operational costs.
Comparing the rolling resistance performances of the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ and Nitto Terra Grappler G2, we observe the following results:
- Scorpion All Terrain+: The rolling resistance for the Scorpion All Terrain+ is 8.9 N/kN.
- Nitto Terra Grappler G2: The rolling resistance for the Nitto Terra Grappler G2 is 9.8 N/kN.
Based on these results, the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ demonstrates lower rolling resistance compared to the Nitto Terra Grappler G2, contributing to better fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions. For drivers who prioritize sustainability efforts and lower environmental impact, the Scorpion All Terrain+ offers a more eco-friendly option.
Scorpion All Terrain+ :
- +9.9% in rolling resistance
Price
When comparing the prices of Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ and Nitto Terra Grappler G2, there is a noticeable difference in cost for the specified tire size of 275/65 R18:
Terra Grappler G2 : $247
Scorpion All Terrain+ : $288
Difference: +14% more expensive for Scorpion All Terrain+.
The Nitto Terra Grappler G2 is a more budget-friendly option, with a lower price point of $41 less per tire compared to the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+. It is important to note that Nitto is a subsidiary of Toyo Tire Corporation, a well-established Japanese tire manufacturer known for its high-quality products and innovative designs. This association ensures that Nitto benefits from Toyo’s expertise and resources, contributing to the quality and reliability of the Terra Grappler G2.
While the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ is priced higher, it offers strong performance across various categories, including wet and gravel surfaces. Drivers should consider their specific needs, preferences, and budget when choosing between these two all-terrain tire options.
Summary
In conclusion, both the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain+ and Nitto Terra Grappler G2 are capable all-terrain tires, offering reliable performance on various surfaces. The Scorpion All Terrain+ demonstrates superior wet, gravel, and rolling resistance performance, making it a strong contender for drivers who prioritize safety, traction, and sustainability. However, it comes with a higher price tag compared to the Nitto Terra Grappler G2.
The Nitto Terra Grappler G2, owned by Toyo Tire Corporation, is a more budget-friendly option and provides better lap times on dirt surfaces. While it may not outperform the Scorpion All Terrain+ in certain categories, it still offers satisfactory performance across various conditions.
When deciding between these two all-terrain tire options, drivers should consider their specific needs, preferences, and budget. It is essential to weigh the importance of factors such as wet and dry performance, handling on different surfaces, comfort, noise, rolling resistance, and price in order to make an informed decision that suits individual requirements.