The General AltiMax RT43 is a popular all-season tire that has garnered significant attention for its impressive combination of performance, durability, and value. In this in-depth review, we will delve into the pros and cons of this tire, providing a comprehensive analysis to help you make an informed decision.
The AltiMax RT43 is an all-season tire designed to deliver reliable performance across various driving conditions. Manufactured by General Tire, a subsidiary of Continental AG, this tire has gained a reputation for its exceptional value proposition, offering a compelling blend of capabilities at an affordable price point.
Before we dive into the details, let's take a look at the key features and specifications of the AltiMax RT43:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Tire Type | All-Season |
| Tread Design | Symmetric |
| Tread Compound | Silica-Enhanced |
| Treadwear Warranty | 75,000 miles (T-rated), 60,000 miles (H/V-rated) |
| Speed Ratings | T, H, V |
| Sizes Available | 15-inch to 20-inch |
With these key features in mind, let's explore the pros and cons of the General AltiMax RT43 in detail.
The AltiMax RT43 boasts several notable advantages that make it a compelling choice for drivers seeking a well-rounded all-season tire.
One of the standout advantages of the AltiMax RT43 is its exceptional value for money. Reviewers consistently praise this tire for delivering impressive performance relative to its budget-friendly pricing. Whether you're seeking a cost-effective solution or simply looking for a tire that offers a great balance of features and affordability, the AltiMax RT43 is a compelling choice.
General Tire backs the T-rated versions of the AltiMax RT43 with an outstanding 75,000-mile tread life warranty, which is exceptional for an all-season tire in this price range. Even the H- and V-rated versions, designed for higher-speed performance, come with a respectable 60,000-mile warranty, ensuring long-lasting tread life and value for your investment.
Here's a comparison of the tread life warranties offered by General Tire for the AltiMax RT43:
| Tire Version | Tread Life Warranty |
|---|---|
| T-rated | 75,000 miles |
| H/V-rated | 60,000 miles |
Independent tests conducted by reputable sources like Consumer Reports and TireRack have consistently rated the AltiMax RT43's performance as "Good" to "Very Good" across various criteria, including:
Handling
Traction
Braking on dry surfaces
Braking on wet surfaces
This tire delivers reliable all-season capabilities, ensuring a confident driving experience in a variety of conditions.
While not a dedicated winter tire, the T-rated version of the AltiMax RT43 has garnered praise for its impressive snow traction. Consumer Reports and TireRack have commended its "Excellent" and "impressive" grip in snow, making it a rare four-season choice for drivers in areas with moderate snowfall. This versatility adds to the tire's overall value proposition.
Despite its affordable pricing, the AltiMax RT43 offers a comfortable and relatively quiet ride. TireRack notes a "pleasant ride" with only a "faint rumble from the tread", while user reviews highlight the tire's smooth and quiet performance, contributing to an enjoyable driving experience.
The AltiMax RT43 is designed for long treadwear, thanks to its durable construction and advanced tread compound. Consumer Reports estimates a treadlife of 65,000 miles, while General's warranty backs up to 75,000 miles for T-rated sizes, ensuring a long-lasting investment and minimizing the need for frequent replacements.
While the AltiMax RT43 boasts several notable advantages, it's essential to consider its limitations as well.
While the T-rated version of the AltiMax RT43 excels in light snow, it is not recommended for areas with heavy or frequent snowfall. This tire lacks the specialized tread design and compound found in dedicated winter tires, limiting its performance in severe winter conditions. Drivers in regions with harsh winters may need to consider a dedicated winter tire for optimal safety and traction.
Although generally comfortable, some reviewers have noted that the AltiMax RT43 can feel slightly firm over larger impacts, and there is some noticeable tread noise, especially with the grand touring (H/V-rated) versions. While not a dealbreaker for most drivers, those seeking a truly plush and whisper-quiet ride may want to consider alternative options.
Here's a comparison of the ride quality and noise levels reported for the different versions of the AltiMax RT43:
| Tire Version | Ride Quality | Noise Level |
|---|---|---|
| T-rated | Comfortable | Low |
| H/V-rated | Slightly Firm | Noticeable |
While the T-rated versions of the AltiMax RT43 come with an impressive 75,000-mile tread life warranty, the H- and V-rated grand touring versions have a shorter 60,000-mile warranty. Although still above average, this warranty is not as exceptional as the T-rated counterparts, which may be a consideration for drivers seeking maximum treadwear protection.
In conclusion, the General AltiMax RT43 is an excellent value-oriented all-season tire that delivers impressive performance, durability, and value, making it a compelling choice for drivers in areas with moderate weather conditions. Its exceptional snow traction (T-rated), comfortable ride, and long treadwear are standout pros, while its limitations in heavy snow and slightly firm ride with some noise are minor cons to consider. By weighing the pros and cons outlined in this in-depth review, you can make an informed decision on whether the AltiMax RT43 is the right tire for your driving needs and preferences.
The General AltiMax RT43 is an all-season touring tire designed for passenger cars, sedans, coupes, minivans, and crossovers. It offers a comfortable ride, long treadwear, and all-season traction, including light snow traction.
Independent tests rate the AltiMax RT43's dry performance as good to very good, with reliable handling, traction, and braking on dry surfaces.
The AltiMax RT43 delivers good wet traction and braking performance, although some tests indicate it may not be the best in its class for wet conditions.
The T-rated version of the AltiMax RT43 has received praise for its impressive snow traction, making it a rare four-season tire for areas with moderate snowfall.
The AltiMax RT43 comes with a 75,000-mile treadwear warranty for T-rated sizes and a 60,000-mile warranty for H- and V-rated sizes.
The AltiMax RT43 is generally praised for its comfortable and quiet ride, although some reviewers note that the H- and V-rated versions can feel slightly firm and produce noticeable tread noise.
The AltiMax RT43 is widely regarded as an excellent value-for-money tire, offering impressive performance and features at a budget-friendly price point.
No, the AltiMax RT43 is not recommended for areas with heavy or frequent snowfall, as it lacks the specialized tread design and compound found in dedicated winter tires.
Both tires are highly rated, but the Michelin Defender T+H is generally considered a better overall tire, with slightly better wet performance and a longer 80,000-mile treadwear warranty.
The Continental TrueContact Tour is a direct competitor to the AltiMax RT43, offering similar performance and features at a slightly higher price point. The TrueContact Tour may have a slight edge in wet performance and ride quality.
Sarah isn't your average gearhead. With a double major in Mechanical Engineering and Automotive Technology, she dived straight into the world of car repair. After 15 years of turning wrenches at dealerships and independent shops, Sarah joined MICDOT to share her expertise and passion for making cars run like new. Her in-depth knowledge and knack for explaining complex issues in simple terms make her a valuable asset to our team.