How are these Cooper AT3 LT tyres holding up after 20,000km?

The Cooper AT3 LTs fitted to the FJ Cruiser have now clocked approximately 20,000km. 

One of the tyre’s key strengths lies in its advanced silica compound, which is claimed to contain up to four times more coupled silica than many competitors. This technology enhances road contact, reduces bounce and friction, improves grip, and extends overall tyre life.

With approximately 80 per cent of travel occurring on sealed roads, one of the first noticeable benefits was a significant reduction in road noise. The tread design is said to cut noise by up to 20 per cent, contributing to a quieter, more comfortable driving experience – particularly on long highway journeys.

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Regular travel on gravel roads has shown the tyres to offer strong grip and stability. Bounce reduction on corrugated corners is particularly apparent. On a trip to Lerdederg State Park, the tyres handled undulating terrain with ease, helping the FJ Cruiser maintain traction as the suspension reached full articulation.

The tyres are constructed with high-tensile cord across the tread face and sidewalls. This design is claimed to reduce the risk of damage by 33 per cent, increase puncture protection by up to 15 per cent, and improve overall load capacity and impact strength. While difficult to verify, post-rotation inspection revealed minimal visible damage – mostly light scuffing and some rounding on the outer edges, likely caused by minor kerb contact.

The FJ is equipped with 265/70R17 AT3 LTs, which originally featured a tread depth of 13.1mm. Measurements at the centre and edges now indicate an average tread wear of approximately 1mm, with slight variation on the outer edges.

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While not subjected to hardcore off-roading, the tyres have handled a wide range of conditions, including wet weather. With the FJ weighing close to 2000kg, confident braking in the wet is essential. The tyres’ full-depth microgauge siping is designed to reduce slippage and enhance grip in wet conditions, and performance in this area has proven reliable.

The sipe design also prevents stone drilling and helps minimise tread damage, with little visible deterioration after 20,000km. In muddy terrain such as the limestone-rich tracks at Lerdederg, the AT3 LTs have shown superior mud ejection compared to the OE tyres found on many press vehicles. Performance on sand has not yet been tested but is expected to be included in a future update.

The Cooper AT3 LTs have demonstrated impressive handling, low wear, and consistent performance across varied terrain. Their strength and durability will be reassessed at the 50,000km mark. Stay tuned.