The 265/60R18 tire has an overall diameter of 30.5 inches (775 mm), a tread width of 10.4 inches (265 mm), and is designed to fit 18-inch (457 mm) wheels. Its sidewall height measures 6.3 inches (159 mm), while the total circumference comes to 95.8 inches (2433 mm), resulting in about 661 revolutions per mile (411 per kilometer).
This tire size offers a dependable balance of comfort, traction, and stability, making it suitable for SUVs and light trucks that see a mix of highway driving, city use, and occasional off-road conditions.
For more detailed information about tire sizes, you can explore our article on tire sizes.
Tire Size: 265/60R18 in Inches and Millimeters
The 265/60R18 tire size is commonly used in various vehicles, offering a balance between performance and comfort. Below is a breakdown of its key specifications in both inches and metric units to help you understand the tire dimensions more clearly.
| Spec | Inches | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| Circumference | 95.8″ | 2433.5 mm |
| Diameter | 30.5″ | 775 mm |
| Revolutions | 661 per mile | 411 per km |
| Sidewall | 6.3″ | 159 mm |
| Wheel | 18″ | 457.2 mm |
| Width | 10.4″ | 265 mm |
Understanding the Meaning of 265/60R18 Tire Size
Let’s break this down step by step:
- 265 – This is the tire width in millimeters. It means the tire is 265 mm wide, which equals 10.4 inches when converted.
- 60 – This is the aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height is 60% of the tire’s width. In this case, it’s 6.3 inches (159 mm).
- R – The “R” stands for radial construction, which is the standard design for modern tires. It ensures better durability and stability.
- 18 – This number represents the diameter of the wheel in inches. It means the tire fits an 18-inch wheel.
Why does this matter? Each of these factors affects your grip, ride comfort, handling, and even fuel efficiency. Wider tires can provide better traction, while taller sidewalls improve ride comfort but may slightly reduce responsiveness.
Converting 265/60R18 in Inches and Millimeters
Now that we know what 265/60R18 means, let’s convert it into actual dimensions so you get a clear picture of the tire’s size:
- Overall Diameter: 30.5 inches (775 mm)
- Tire Width: 10.4 inches (265 mm)
- Wheel Diameter: 18 inches (457.2 mm)
- Sidewall Height: 6.3 inches (159 mm)
- Circumference: 95.8 inches (2433.5 mm)
- Revolutions Per Mile: 661 (411 per km)
How Do These Measurements Affect Your Driving?
- A larger diameter improves ground clearance but can affect speedometer accuracy.
- Wider tires offer better grip but may increase fuel consumption.
- A higher aspect ratio (taller sidewalls) absorbs bumps better, improving comfort.
By understanding these numbers, you can confidently choose the right tires that fit your needs—whether it’s comfort, performance, or fuel efficiency.
Which Vehicles Use 265/60R18 Tires?
The 265/60R18 tire size is a versatile option that fits many SUVs, crossovers, and light trucks. These vehicles are designed to balance comfort, off-road capability, and fuel efficiency.
SUVs & Crossovers That Use 265/60R18 Tires
These vehicles are built for everyday driving, offering a smooth ride while maintaining some off-road capability.
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Ford Escape
- Toyota Highlander
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Honda Passport
Trucks & Larger SUVs That Use 265/60R18 Tires
Light trucks and full-size SUVs benefit from this tire size because it provides a solid balance of grip, comfort, and durability.
- GMC Sierra
- Toyota Land Cruiser
- Ford F-150
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Nissan Titan
265/60R18 vs Other Tire Sizes: What’s the Difference?
When selecting a tire, it’s essential to understand how 265/60R18 compares with other popular sizes. Below, we’ll break down the differences in width, diameter, sidewall height, and ideal use cases for each tire size in separate comparison tables.
265/60R18 vs 265/65R18: Better Handling vs Comfort
| Feature | 265/60R18 | 265/65R18 |
| Width | 10.4 inches | 10.4 inches |
| Overall Diameter | 30.5 inches | 31.6 inches |
| Sidewall Height | 6.3 inches | 6.8 inches |
| Best For | A solid tire for stable on-road performance | A tire with more sidewall height for comfort |
| Tread Contact | Narrower footprint for responsive driving | Taller sidewall for improved cushioning |
| Fuel Economy | Slightly better fuel efficiency | Reduced fuel efficiency due to larger diameter |
Which One to Choose?
- Choose 265/60R18 if you need better handling and stability, particularly for highway driving.
- Choose 265/65R18 if you want a softer ride, especially for off-road driving or rough roads, and can accommodate the extra height.
How Well Does All Terrain 265/60R18 Perform on Different Terrains?
Your tires determine how well your vehicle handles pavement, rain, snow, and off-road trails. Let’s break down how all terrain 265/60R18 tires perform across different surfaces.
On-Road Performance: Smooth and Fuel-Efficient
Most all terrain 265/60R18 tires are designed for highway and city driving, meaning they offer:
✅ A smooth and quiet ride on pavement.
✅ Balanced fuel efficiency (wider tires may reduce MPG slightly).
✅ Good grip on wet roads if you choose all-season tread patterns.
Off-Road Performance: Can Handle Trails, But With Limits
While this size is not specifically designed for extreme off-road use, many all-terrain and mud-terrain tires come in this size, making them capable for light off-road adventures.
- Gravel & Dirt Roads: Handles well, but tread depth matters.
- Mud & Sand: Wider tires perform better for flotation, but aggressive tread is needed.
- Rocky Trails: Some brands offer reinforced sidewalls for extra durability.
Winter & Wet Road Performance: Tread Patterns Matter
All terrain 265/60R18 tires can perform well in rain and snow if they have the right tread design.
- All-Season Tires: Good for wet roads and light snow but struggle in deep snow.
- All-Terrain Tires: Better for winter conditions, offering improved grip on icy roads.
- Winter Tires: Best option for heavy snow and extreme cold, thanks to specialized rubber compounds.
Conclusion
Understanding 265/60R18 tires helps you make better choices for your vehicle’s performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. These tires offer a great balance of comfort, traction, and durability for SUVs and light trucks.
To keep them performing well, follow proper maintenance, check tire pressure regularly, and replace them when worn out. Whether you’re driving on highways or light off-road trails, choosing and caring for the right tires ensures a smoother, safer, and more efficient ride.
For any tire-related services, don’t hesitate to explore our tire repair page for professional assistance.
FAQs
Q. What is the overall height of a 265/60R18 tire?
A 265/60R18 tire has an overall diameter of 30.5 inches (775 mm), which affects ground clearance and ride quality.
Q. Are 265/60R18 tires good for off-road driving?
Yes, but performance depends on tread pattern. All-terrain tires work best for dirt, gravel, and light off-road use.
Q. Can I replace 265/60R18 with 275/60R18?
Yes, but a wider tire may slightly affect fuel efficiency, handling, and fender clearance. Always check your vehicle’s fitment guide.
Q. How often should I rotate 265/60R18 tires?
Rotate them every 5,000–7,000 miles to ensure even tread wear and longer lifespan.
