Crossover vs SUV Tires: Size and Load Differences

Crossovers and SUVs: Different Vehicles, Different Tires

Crossovers and SUVs are often used interchangeably, but they are engineered differently. A crossover is typically built on a car platform, while an SUV often uses a truck-derived chassis. That distinction affects the tires you need, especially in terms of load capacity. Federal regulations classify tires for vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 pounds or less as passenger car tires, and these can be used on multipurpose passenger vehicles such as SUVs (49 CFR 571.110).

However, larger SUVs and those used for towing may exceed the load capacity of standard P-metric tires. In that case, manufacturers often specify light truck (LT) tires, which are designed for light trucks and multipurpose passenger vehicles (49 CFR 571.110). LT tires have higher load ratings and are built with heavier construction. Learn more about the differences between P-metric and LT tires.

Understanding Load Ratings

Every tire has a load rating, defined as the maximum load it is rated to carry at a given inflation pressure (49 CFR 571.109). The maximum load rating is the load rating at the maximum permissible inflation pressure. For a tire to be safe, the sum of the maximum load ratings of the tires on an axle must be at least the gross axle weight rating (GAWR) of that axle (49 CFR 571.110).

Many crossovers use standard load tires, but if your vehicle is heavy or you carry extra cargo, you may need extra load (XL) tires. An extra load tire is designed to operate at higher loads and higher inflation pressures than the corresponding standard tire (49 CFR 571.139). These are often marked with 'XL' or 'Reinforced' on the sidewall. Understanding load index ratings helps you compare tires.

The load rating is printed on the sidewall as a load index, a number that corresponds to a specific maximum load. For example, a load index of 94 corresponds to 1,477 pounds, while a load index of 100 corresponds to 1,764 pounds. Always compare the load index to the original equipment tire or the vehicle placard to ensure you are not stepping down in capacity. When in doubt, choose a tire with a higher load index rather than a lower one, especially for an SUV that may be loaded near its GVWR.

Size Differences Between Crossover and SUV Tires

Crossover tires often have a lower aspect ratio (shorter sidewall) for better handling, while SUV tires may have a taller sidewall for comfort and off-road capability. The section width and diameter also vary to match the vehicle's weight and braking needs. But the most critical spec is the load index, which correlates with the load rating. A higher load index means a higher maximum load capacity.

Tire size codes like 225/65R17 encode the section width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter. Learn to read tire sizes and how aspect ratio affects ride and load handling. Crossovers often use 17- or 18-inch wheels, while SUVs may use 18- to 20-inch wheels, but the load rating is independent of diameter. The rim width also matters: placing a tire on a rim wider than the recommended range can affect the tire's load capacity and handling. Check the tire rim width range before mounting.

Another size consideration is the overall diameter. Replacing SUV tires with a larger diameter can change the speedometer reading and alter the vehicle's gearing, which is especially important for towing. If you plan to upsize, consult the tire plus sizing guide to maintain the correct load and speed ratings.

Reading Your Vehicle's Tire Placard

The vehicle manufacturer specifies the correct tire size, load rating, and inflation pressure on a placard usually located on the driver's side door jamb. This placard must be followed to ensure the tires can handle the vehicle's maximum loaded weight. Using tires with a lower load rating than specified can lead to overloading and failure.

Always check the placard before buying tires. It lists the original tire size and the cold inflation pressure for normal and maximum loads. For detailed guidance on inflation, see our tire pressure basics. You can also cross-reference the load capacity chart to verify your tire's capability.

The placard also shows the GVWR and the GAWR for each axle. To check if a tire is sufficient, compare the tire's load rating (at the recommended pressure) to the GAWR divided by two (since each axle has two tires). For a vehicle with a GVWR of 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) or less, the regulations require that the sum of the maximum load ratings of the tires on each axle be at least the GAWR (49 CFR 571.110). This is your minimum safety threshold.

Choosing the Right Tires for Your Crossover or SUV

To choose the right tires, first determine your vehicle's GVWR and GAWR from the placard. Then select tires with a load rating that meets or exceeds those values. For crossovers, standard P-metric all-season tires are usually sufficient. For SUVs that tow or carry heavy loads, consider extra load or LT tires. Use the load index to compare tires across sizes.

If you frequently drive with a full passenger load or a heavy cargo, add a safety margin by choosing a tire with a load index a few steps higher than the original. For off-road use, LT tires offer stronger sidewalls and better resistance to impacts, but they may reduce ride comfort. Compare all-season options in our best all-season tires for cars and SUVs guide, or explore LT tires in the best light truck tires guide.

• Check the door placard for the original tire size and load rating.
• Compare the load index on potential replacement tires to the OE requirement.
• If towing, consider a tire with a load rating at least 10% higher than the calculated need.
• Choose XL (extra load) tires if you regularly carry heavy cargo in a crossover.
• For off-road use, select LT tires with an all-terrain tread pattern.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I use crossover tires on an SUV?

It depends. If the load rating meets the SUV's GAWR, you can, but many SUVs require higher-rated tires. Always check the door placard before swapping tires.

What does LT mean on a tire?

LT stands for Light Truck. LT tires are designed for light trucks and multipurpose passenger vehicles and have higher load ratings than P-metric tires (49 CFR 571.110). They are often used on larger SUVs and trucks.

Do crossovers need XL tires?

Only if the vehicle's GVWR requires it. Check the placard. If the load index on the sidewall doesn't meet the requirement, choose XL or LT tires.

How do I know the load rating of my tire?

The load rating is printed on the sidewall as a load index and may also be shown as a maximum load in pounds. Compare it with your vehicle's requirements from the placard.

What happens if I use a tire with a lower load index than recommended?

The tire may overheat and fail, especially under heavy loads or at high speeds. Always meet or exceed the manufacturer's load index specification.