The Nitto Exo Grappler AWT tire is a durable, all-terrain truck tire designed for heavy off-road use. It features a unique tread design and advanced technologies, making it suitable for various terrains and weather conditions. The tire excels in grip and durability, making it a versatile choice for both highways and mud-covered trails. This comprehensive review provides insights into its features, performance analysis, comfort, and winter capabilities, making it a reliable choice for both off-road enthusiasts and year-round drivers.
Tire Technology and Features
Durable Compound
The Nitto Exo Grappler AWT contains a durable compound, integrating natural rubber, high-strength polymers, and wear-resistant components. This novel amalgamation increases the tire’s protection against cuts and chips, making it suitable for use on rough roads and terrains. The compound’s toughness contributes to the tire’s long wear life, guaranteeing reliability and efficiency even in harsh off-road environments.
Sidewall Technology
The Exo Grappler AWT’s cutting-edge sidewall technology includes staggered shoulder blocks, which serve as extra biting edges for improved off-road traction on slick or muddy terrain. Strong and resistant to punctures, thanks to the 3-ply sidewall structure and big lugs. This technology is built to withstand the abuse of off-road driving, providing a strong defense against damage and making the tire last even under harsh conditions.
3-Peak Mountain Snowflake Rated
The Nitto Exo Grappler AWT has been certified as suitable for use in snowy and icy situations by the Mountain Snowflake Testing Program. Biting edges, water evacuation, and good traction on snowy and slippery roads are all provided by the tire’s sipes and broad lateral grooves. This rating demonstrates the tire’s ability to handle wintry conditions, providing drivers with peace of mind even in extremely cold temperatures.
Sipes and Large Lateral Grooves
Designed for the best winter performance, the Exo Grappler AWT combines sipes and deep lateral grooves. These enhancements to the biting edges help drivers gain traction in adverse weather conditions. The grooves efficiently remove water, snow, and slush from the road, reducing the likelihood of hydroplaning and increasing traction in wet and slick situations.
TSMI #15 Studs
The Exo Grappler AWT can be outfitted with TSMI #15 studs for improved ice and snow traction. This function allows drivers to improve the tire’s performance on ice, strengthening its suitability for use in extreme cold. The tire’s ability to accept studs adds versatility, which makes it a good choice for challenging winter driving conditions.
Variable Pitch Tread Blocks
The tire contains variable-pitch tread blocks, a device intended to minimize tire noise during highway driving. The computer-analyzed layout of the tread blocks provides a quieter ride at highway speeds, improving the quality of the driving experience overall. This design element emphasizes Nitto’s commitment to combining off-road performance with highway comfort.
Gear Shaped Block Edges
For a firm grip on the ground, the Exo Grappler AWT’s middle tread blocks are reinforced with gear-shaped block edges. Tires with these kinds of edges are more durable and perform better in off-road settings because they reduce stone retention and stone drilling. The tire’s gear-shaped construction improves its off-road performance and longevity.
Stone Ejectors
The Exo Grappler AWT incorporates spiral-shaped stone ejectors inside the tread grooves to actively reduce stone retention and drilling. This technology reduces the likelihood of damage to the tire and promotes uniform wear throughout the tread. The tire’s capacity to eject stones and debris demonstrates Nitto’s commitment to durability and endurance, allowing for peak performance even on rough off-road terrain.
Dual Sidewall Designs
Each Exo Grappler AWT tire comes with two different designs on each sidewall. Tires with chisel-shaped lugs on one side and Y-shaped lugs on the other provide drivers a chance to personalize the look of their set. The tire’s adaptability and good looks are both enhanced by the dual sidewall design.
Performance in Different Conditions
Dry Performance
The Nitto Exo Grappler AWT provides a composed and responsive ride, and it shines in dry weather. Tires with a durable compound and reinforced sidewalls help drivers maintain control and steer with ease on dry pavement. The tire’s grip is improved by the gear-shaped block edges and variable-pitch tread blocks, so it may be driven with confidence in wet or dry conditions.
Wet Performance
The Exo Grappler AWT’s superior tread design allows it to perform well in both dry and wet environments. The wide lateral grooves that successfully channel water away from the tire reduce hydroplaning and increase wet grip. The variable-pitch tread blocks help to reduce the amount of noise transmitted to the driver, passenger, and pedestrian on wet roads.
Snow Performance
The Exo Grappler AWT’s three-peak mountain snowflake rating attests to the fact that it excels in snowy conditions. With the tire’s sipes and wide lateral grooves acting as biting edges, you can confidently navigate the snowy roads. The option to add TSMI #15 studs further increases the tire’s performance, giving it a reliable choice for traveling through hard snow-covered terrain.
Off-Road Performance
The Exo Grappler AWT was designed with off-roaders in mind, so it naturally excels in such an environment. The 3-ply sidewall structure with massive sidewall lugs boosts sidewall strength and puncture resistance, and the staggered shoulder blocks with extra biting edges give traction on loose soil terrain. The tire’s toughness and resistance to cuts and chips make it well-suited for demanding off-road terrain, allowing drivers confidence in diverse off-road excursions.
Comfort and Noise
The Exo Grappler AWT strikes a good balance between off-road prowess and on-road comfort thanks to its variable pitch tread blocks, which also help to reduce tire noise while driving on the highway. The ride will be quieter and more comfortable thanks to this technology, making the whole driving experience better. The tire is great for both off-road enthusiasts and those seeking on-road refinement due to its adaptable design and high level of comfort for daily driving despite its aggressive tread design.
Tread Life
The Exo Grappler AWT’s tread life is exceptional because of the unique blend of natural rubber, high-strength polymers, and wear-resistant components that went into its construction. A composition that resists cuts and chips, even on gravel roads, ensures longevity in harsh conditions. Throughout its service life, the Exo Grappler AWT will provide reliable performance for its drivers.
Warranty
A lengthy limited warranty protects the original buyer of a set of Nitto Exo Grappler AWT tires from manufacturing flaws. Eligibility requirements include use on the original vehicle, purchase after March 2015, and adequate tire maintenance. The guarantee comprises a Workmanship and Materials Limited guarantee for difficulties during the first 1/32″ of tread use and other conditions within 60 months from the purchase date. To view the whole set of policies, please go to the Nitto website.
Vehicles That Fit Nitto Exo Grappler AWT Tires
- Chevrolet Cobalt and Chevrolet Silverado
- Ram 2500
- Ford Ranger
- Honda Civic
- Hyundai Elantra
- INFINITI QX56
- Jeep Gladiator
- Kia Forte, Kia Soul
- Mazda 3
- Nissan Sentra and Nissan Titan
- Pontiac Vibe
- RAM 1500
- Scion xB
- Toyota Corolla, Toyota Tacoma, Toyota Tundra
Compared with Other Tires
Nitto EXO Grappler AWT vs. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
When it comes to snow and ice, the EXO Grappler is unrivaled in traction, but the KO2 is lauded for its puncture- and cut-resistant sidewalls. Stone ejectors are a unique feature of Nitto tires that improve durability by removing rocks from the tread. However, the BFGoodrich KO2 is lauded for its well-rounded performance, which includes a quiet ride on the highway and dependable off-road capability. The EXO Grappler is a great alternative for individuals living in icy conditions, while the KO2 is popular among drivers looking for a versatile tire with exceptional off-road durability.
Nitto EXO Grappler AWT vs. Toyo Open Country A/T III
The Nitto EXO Grappler AWT and the Toyo Open Country A/T III are two excellent choices for off-road use. The EXO Grappler is well-known for its rugged tread design, which excels in demanding off-road environments, and its dual sidewall construction, which permits individualization. The Toyo Open Country A/T III, on the other hand, has been lauded for its improved quietness and responsiveness on the road. The EXO Grappler’s snow and ice prowess is outstanding, while the Toyo A/T III gives a well-balanced approach ideal for diverse circumstances. Choosing between these two sturdy all-terrain tires will likely come down to cost and personal preferences like noise level and on-road comfort.
Nitto EXO Grappler AWT vs. Falken Wildpeak A/T3W
The EXO Grappler is a popular choice because of its rugged off-road construction and the versatility offered by its two sidewall options. In contrast, the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W is well-known for its lengthy tread life guarantee and the 3D sipes that improve its performance in the winter. The Wildpeak A/T3W is a good alternative to the EXO Grappler if you’re looking for a more comfortable daily commute vehicle since it finds a mix between off-road competence and on-road comfort. Choose between these two capable tires based on your own preferences, the local environment, and the importance you place on off-road performance over on-road comfort.
Customer Feedback
Customers adore the Nitto EXO Grappler AWT because it works well in many terrains and temperatures. Many users have praised it for its excellent traction and grip, especially on slick surfaces like snow, ice, and mud. Some drivers have reported very little tread wear after thousands of miles on the tire, praising its longevity and resilience. Users like that the tire can be used in any weather, making road and dirt path rides comfortable and safe. The EXO Grappler is well-liked by truck owners due to its impressive capacity for pulling and hauling massive loads. Customer reviews consistently praise the tire’s dependable performance, long lifespan, and impressive versatility.
While the Nitto EXO Grappler AWT generally receives positive feedback from users, some have voiced concerns about some features. There is a common complaint that grows louder as tire mileage increases: road noise. Some consumers found the tire to be noisier than expected, hurting overall driving comfort. Another common complaint is how poorly it performs in the rain, especially in terms of hydroplaning and wet-weather traction. The reduced traction and handling that some drivers experience on wet roads is a potential problem in rainy areas.
Conclusion
The Nitto Exo Grappler AWT tire is a versatile and durable option for drivers. It offers off-road traction, reliable winter performance, and a comfortable highway ride. Its durable compound, sidewall technology, and innovative tread design ensure longevity. The tire comes with a comprehensive warranty and a dual-sidewall design for personalized aesthetics.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Exo Grappler AWT perform in winter conditions?
Rated with the 3-peak mountain snowflake, this tire excels in winter driving. Its sipes and wide lateral grooves make for excellent snow and slush clearance. In addition, TSMI #15 studs can be used, providing even more traction in the snow.
What is the significance of the dual-sidewall designs?
The Exo Grappler AWT boasts two sidewall designs, allowing drivers to choose between chisel-shaped and Y-shaped sidewall lugs. This not only gives each set of tires a unique look but also accommodates a wide range of personal tastes.
How does the tire handle off-road terrain?
The gear-shaped block edges and staggered shoulder blocks improve off-road traction. The tire’s 3-ply sidewall and huge lugs make it puncture-resistant and excellent for off-roading.
Is the Exo Grappler AWT suitable for all-season use?
The tire’s all-weather, chip-resistant material is flexible even when frozen, so it may be used year-round. This, along with its high level of winter performance, makes it an excellent option in a wide range of climates.
How does the tire handle on-road comfort and noise levels?
The tread blocks’ variable pitch and the meticulous arrangement of those blocks allow for a quiet drive on the highway. The aggressive tread design doesn’t affect the Exo Grappler AWT’s street handling or road noise reduction.