The Land Rover Defender is one of the most capable production off-road vehicles in the world. The new-generation Defender (2020 to present) combines that legendary capability with a modern platform, air suspension, and a level of interior refinement that would have seemed impossible in an old Defender. Tires can either honor that dual capability or undermine one side of it.
Land Rover Defender tire sizes
The Defender 90 and 110 base models use 265/70R18 on 18-inch wheels. The Mid option pack with 20-inch wheels uses 275/45R20. The Black Pack or larger wheel options use 275/40R22 on 22-inch wheels. The Defender 130 shares these wheel packages.
The 265/70R18 is the most off-road-capable size — more sidewall height means better absorption of rocks and debris, more room for airing down. The 22-inch package with 275/40R22 has minimal sidewall and significantly limits off-road tire options.
Best all-terrain tires for the Defender
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 (265/70R18) — the classic choice for Defender owners on 18-inch wheels. Proven off-road capability, strong puncture resistance, and enough highway manners for daily driving. Available in 265/70R18. The most popular aftermarket upgrade for Defender off-road use.
Falken Wildpeak AT3W (265/70R18) — the quietest all-terrain in the 265/70R18 size. Competitive off-road capability with measurably lower noise than the KO2. Best for Defender owners who split time evenly between trail and highway.
Toyo Open Country AT III (265/70R18, 275/45R20) — available in both common Defender sizes. Excellent all-terrain performance with the best on-road manners in the segment. Very quiet for an all-terrain.
All-season highway tires for on-road Defender use
Continental CrossContact LX25 (275/45R20) — for Defender owners on 20-inch wheels who rarely go off-road. The quietest all-season in this size, excellent wet traction, and refined highway character. A significant road noise reduction compared to the OEM Goodyear Wrangler.
Michelin CrossClimate2 SUV (275/45R20) — best all-weather choice for Defender owners who encounter winter conditions on road trips. 3PMSF-rated for genuine snow capability without sacrificing on-road refinement.
Frequently asked
What tire size does the Land Rover Defender use?
Defender 90/110 base (18-inch): 265/70R18. Mid pack (20-inch): 275/45R20. 22-inch pack: 275/40R22. Verify on the driver door sticker — sizes vary by option pack.
What tires does the Land Rover Defender come with from the factory?
Most Defenders come equipped with Goodyear Wrangler DirectGrip all-terrain tires as OEM. Many owners upgrade to BFGoodrich KO2, Falken Wildpeak AT3W, or Toyo Open Country for better off-road capability or quieter road manners.
Keep reading
Last updated 2026-06-27. General guidance only — confirm specifics with a local shop for your exact vehicle.