Drivers searching for the perfect balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability often narrow their options down to the Toyo Open Country AT3 and the BFGoodrich KO2. Both tires have earned a strong reputation in the all-terrain category, yet each offers distinct strengths that appeal to different types of adventures.
The Toyo Open Country AT3 focuses on delivering a smoother ride with enhanced tread life and wet traction, while the BFGoodrich KO2 stands out for its rugged durability and proven off-road grip.
Tire performance plays a huge role in safety, confidence, and overall driving experience, so understanding the differences helps make a smarter investment. From tread design to road noise and long-term reliability, every detail counts.
This comparison breaks down both options, making it easier to see which tire fits your driving style, whether you prioritize daily comfort or extreme terrain challenges.
Toyo Open Country AT3 vs BFGoodrich KO2
All-terrain tires need to perform on highways, gravel, mud, snow, and sometimes even rocky trails. Two of the most popular names are the Toyo Open Country AT3 and the BFGoodrich KO2. Both have strong reputations. Both promise a mix of durability, traction, and comfort.
But they are not the same. One focuses more on load handling and highway comfort. The other is built for year-round off-road performance and harsh winter use.
This detailed comparison will help you see the difference between them. Let’s go step by step.
Toyo Tires OPEN COUNTRY AT III
Product Details
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Brand: Toyo Tires
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Size: 35X12.5R20
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Section Width: 35 mm
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Load Capacity: 3195 lbs
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Tread Depth: 16.9 inches
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Tread Type: Asymmetrical
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Max Pressure: 65 PSI
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Rim Width: 12.5 inches
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Tire Diameter: 35 inches
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Rim Size: 20 inches
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Tire Aspect Ratio: 12.5
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Load Index: 121
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Speed Rating: R
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Item Dimensions: 34 x 34 x 12 inches
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Country of Origin: United States
Features
The Toyo Open Country AT3 is a tire made for balance. It works well on the highway but also handles dirt, gravel, and mud. Its asymmetrical tread pattern spreads the load across the tire evenly.
This design helps the tire grip well on wet and dry surfaces. The 16.9-inch tread depth is deeper than many competitors. That depth gives the tire a longer life.
It also means better grip when roads get loose or muddy. The tire can handle up to 3195 pounds, which makes it a good match for heavy trucks, lifted SUVs, and vehicles used for towing.
What is the good?
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Very high load capacity. Great for large vehicles and heavy cargo.
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Deep tread depth increases both durability and traction.
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Good highway manners for an all-terrain tire.
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Balanced handling across many surfaces.
What is the bad?
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Size and weight may feel too much for smaller pickups or SUVs.
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Road noise grows noticeable at higher speeds.
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Not designed for extreme winter use like dedicated snow-rated tires.
Overall Opinion
Toyo Open Country AT3 is built for strength and balance. It gives confidence on dirt roads and trails, while still staying comfortable on daily drives.
Its main advantage is the ability to carry heavy loads and last for many miles. Drivers who use their truck for towing, hauling, or long road trips will like this tire.
BFGoodrich All Terrain TA KO2
Product Details
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Brand: BFGoodrich
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Size: LT265/70R17/C 112/109S
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Section Width: 265 mm
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Load Capacity: 2470 lbs
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Tread Depth: 15/32 inches
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Tread Type: Non-directional
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Max Pressure: 50 PSI
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Rim Width: 8.5 inches
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Tire Diameter: 31.7 inches
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Rim Size: 17 inches
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Tire Aspect Ratio: 70.0
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Load Index: 112
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Speed Rating: S
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Item Dimensions: 31.7 x 10.7 x 31.7 inches
Features
The BFGoodrich KO2 is one of the most trusted all-terrain tires worldwide. Its design focuses on toughness and versatility. It carries the three-peak mountain snowflake rating, which means it meets the standard for severe winter conditions. That makes it an excellent all-season choice.
Its tread uses interlocking blocks that add stability to the center. This design improves traction on mud, snow, and even rocky ground.
The sidewalls are reinforced to resist cuts and punctures. The tread pattern is non-directional, which means it wears evenly no matter the rotation.
What is the good?
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Severe snow rating, strong performance in winter conditions.
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Great grip on mud, sand, gravel, and rocky terrain.
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Reinforced sidewalls make it tough against punctures.
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Balanced ride comfort for both off-road and highway use.
What is the bad?
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Lower load capacity than Toyo AT3.
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Less tread depth compared to AT3.
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Price can be high compared to budget options.
Overall Opinion
BFGoodrich KO2 is a legend in the all-terrain market. It is not just strong off-road, but also capable in snow and wet weather.
The tire feels at home on rough trails but still gives a smooth ride on highways. It is a good match for drivers who need reliable year-round traction and off-road strength.
Details Comparison for Toyo Open Country AT3 vs BFGoodrich KO2
The Toyo Open Country AT3 and the BFGoodrich KO2 aim at the same audience but differ in their strongest areas.
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Load Capacity: Toyo AT3 can handle more weight, up to 3195 lbs compared to KO2’s 2470 lbs. For heavy trucks and towing, Toyo has the upper hand.
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Tread Depth: Toyo AT3 has 16.9 inches versus KO2’s 15/32 inches. This gives Toyo a slight edge in lifespan and grip on loose terrain.
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Winter Use: BFGoodrich KO2 is severe snow rated, while Toyo AT3 is not. For snowy climates, KO2 is safer and more reliable.
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Road Comfort: Both ride well for all-terrain tires, but Toyo AT3 feels a bit quieter on highways.
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Off-Road Grip: KO2 is built for mud, sand, and rocks. Its interlocking tread blocks and reinforced sidewalls give it a toughness advantage.
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Fitment: KO2 comes in more sizes for SUVs, crossovers, and smaller trucks. Toyo AT3’s larger sizes fit heavy-duty vehicles better.
FAQs
Which tire is better for towing heavy loads?
Toyo Open Country AT3. Its higher load capacity makes it the better option.
Which tire works best in snow?
BFGoodrich KO2. It has the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol for winter use.
Which lasts longer?
Both have long tread lives, but the deeper tread of Toyo AT3 may last longer if used mostly on highways.
Which is more comfortable for daily driving?
Toyo AT3 tends to ride smoother and quieter, especially on long road trips.
Which is tougher off-road?
BFGoodrich KO2. Its reinforced sidewalls resist damage better on rocks and trails.
Conclusion
The choice between Toyo Open Country AT3 vs BFGoodrich KO2 depends on what you need most.
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Pick Toyo Open Country AT3 if you drive a heavy truck, tow often, or want long tread life with highway comfort.
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Pick BFGoodrich KO2 if you need year-round traction, live in snowy areas, or spend more time on mud, sand, and rocky trails.
Both are excellent all-terrain tires. The right decision depends on your vehicle and driving conditions.