In a recent trip to Carefree, AZ, I had the opportunity to drive BFGoodrich's newest light truck tire.

The Rugged Terrain T/A is built for the enthusiast that wants the ability to venture off the paved road without sacrificing highway comfort and low-noise cruising, and proved to be more than capable of delivering us to our destination across fire roads and through slippery mud. The Rugged Trail has the tread pattern of an all-terrain and the advantages of looking good on a stock or slightly lifted truck, but it isn’t built to take the same abuse as it’s off-road cousin the All-Terrain T/A KO. Instead, the ride is quieter and its sidewall is softer for an improved on-road ride with a low lolling resistance for fuel economy.

Several manufacturing improvements were ushered in on the Rugged Terrain, including a new molding process that allows the tread pattern to better carry into the sidewall, adding to its off-road traction. Further, a new, stronger steel alloy allows the radial belts to be more pliable but just as durable as the Rugged Trail that it will be replacing. Also improved are wet traction and stability. The new tire also benefits from a thicker inner liner that keeps tire pressures more consistent. The Rugged Trail will still be offered in the OE fitments it currently covers, but look for the Rugged Terrain to replace most applications soon. For more information, check out BFGoodrichtires.com