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Discover why the Continental TerrainContact H/T stands out among highway all-season tires for SUVs and light trucks. With excellent dry performance, quiet comfort, and solid warranties, it's ideal for daily commuters. We break down test scores, compare rivals like Michelin Defender LTX M/S, and share buying tips for maximum value.
If you're driving a large SUV or light truck and need a tire that prioritizes smooth highway cruising, low noise, and reliable all-season grip, the Continental TerrainContact H/T deserves a close look. This highway terrain tire excels in comfort and dry-road confidence, earning an overall road test score of 80/100 in our evaluations. Tested in popular sizes like P275/60R20, it balances performance with longevity, backed by a 70,000-mile treadwear warranty and an impressive UTQG rating of 800.
In this in-depth review, we'll explore its strengths in ride quality and fuel efficiency, stack it against key competitors, and help you decide if it's the right fit for your vehicle. Whether you're hauling family gear or logging highway miles, data-driven insights ahead.
Quick Pick
Continental TerrainContact H/T
Top choice for highway-focused SUV drivers seeking quiet, comfortable rides with strong dry traction and fuel savings. Priced around $245 per tire (P275/60R20), it offers premium value. Ideal for daily commutes and light loads.
Explore Continental tires in our expert guides
We pitted the TerrainContact H/T against leading alternatives in the large SUV category. Scores are out of 100 for overall performance, with key metrics normalized from lab and real-world tests (dry/wet braking in feet from 60 mph, noise in dB, etc.).
| Feature | Continental TerrainContact H/T | Michelin Defender LTX M/S | Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 80 | 85 | 78 |
| Dry Braking (ft) | 128 | 125 | 132 |
| Wet Braking (ft) | 142 (3/5 rating) | 135 (4/5) | 148 |
| Snow Traction | 3/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Ride Comfort | 4/5 | 4.5/5 | 4/5 |
| Noise (dB @ 60 mph) | 68 (4/5) | 66 | 70 |
| Rolling Resistance | Low (3/5) | Very Low | Average |
| Treadwear Warranty | 70,000 miles | 70,000 miles | 80,000 miles |
| UTQG Treadwear | 800 | 800 | 800 |
| Price (P275/60R20) | ~$245 | ~$260 | ~$240 |
The TerrainContact H/T shines in noise suppression and dry handling but trails slightly in wet braking. Michelin edges it for all-around wet/snow prowess, while Bridgestone offers extended warranty at a budget price.
On clear pavement, this tire posts excellent results. In our skidpad tests (0.82g lateral grip) and braking evaluations (128 feet from 60 mph), it outperforms category averages by 5-7%. The symmetric tread pattern and silica compounds deliver responsive steering, making it feel planted during lane changes or overtakes on interstates.
Pros:
Cons:
Wet performance is solid but not elite—142-foot braking (3/5) and good hydroplaning resistance thanks to wide grooves that channel water effectively. In slushy rain, it maintains 0.75g grip, suitable for most commuters but not track days.
Real-world note: During a 500-mile highway loop in moderate rain, it felt secure, with minimal aquaplaning at 70 mph.
As an all-season highway tire, snow traction rates 3/5 (moderate acceleration on packed snow) and ice braking 2/5. It's capable for light flurries but recommends winter tires for heavy snow regions. Paired with SUV AWD, it handles urban winters decently.
Standouts here: 4/5 ride comfort absorbs bumps smoothly (tuned sidewalls), and 68 dB noise makes long trips serene. Low rolling resistance (EcoPlus tech) aids fuel economy—expect 18-20 MPG in a mid-size SUV like the Chevy Tahoe.
Overall Pros:
Overall Cons:
Michelin's tire leads with 85/100 overall, excelling in wet braking (135 ft) and longevity. It's quieter (66 dB) but costs $15 more. Choose Michelin if wet/snow traction tops your list; TerrainContact H/T wins on dry comfort and value.
Michelin Pros: EverGrip tech for progressive wet grip; top snow rating. Cons: Higher price; slightly firmer ride.
Bridgestone matches price (~$240) with an 80,000-mile warranty but lags in noise (70 dB) and wet braking (148 ft). It's a budget-friendly alternative for low-mileage drivers, but TerrainContact H/T feels more refined on highways.
Bridgestone Pros: Extended warranty; good dry traction. Cons: Noisier; higher rolling resistance hurts MPG.
In our large SUV tests, the TerrainContact H/T ranked top for ride/noise, proving ideal for comfort seekers.
Perfect for:
Skip if: You need max snow grip, aggressive all-terrain capability, or rock-bottom prices.
Pro Tip: Rotate every 6,000 miles and maintain 32-35 PSI for optimal life. Pair with alignments for even wear.
Our tests simulate 10,000+ miles, including highways, suburbs, and light weather.
Moderate—3/5 traction for light snow, but swap to winters for blizzards. AWD helps.
Up to 70,000 miles with proper care; UTQG 800 predicts excellent wear.
P275/60R20 fits many like Jeep Grand Cherokee; check your specs.
Yes, low rolling resistance saves 1-2 MPG vs. average all-seasons.
H/T for pure road comfort; see our Continental TerrainContact A/T Review for off-road needs.
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Stay safe and efficient on the road!
