The 265/70R18 tire has an overall diameter of 32.6 inches (829 mm), a tread width of 10.4 inches (265 mm), and is designed for 18-inch (457 mm) wheels. Its sidewall height measures 7.3 inches (185 mm), while the circumference comes to 102.4 inches (2601 mm), giving around 619 revolutions per mile (385 per kilometer).
Known for its balance of comfort and capability, this tire size delivers dependable traction, stable handling, and a smooth ride on highways while holding up well in light off-road conditions. You can learn more about Tire Sizes for different vehicles.
Understanding the Tire Size of 265/70R18 in Inches and mm
If you’re wondering how big 265/70R18 tires really are, you’re in the right place. We’ve already broken down what the numbers mean, but now let’s look at the precise dimensions of this tire in both inches and millimeters. This will help you compare sizes, ensure proper fitment, and understand how these measurements impact your vehicle’s performance.
| Dimension | Inches | Metric (mm) |
| Overall Diameter | 32.6 inches | 829 mm |
| Sidewall Height | 7.3 inches | 186 mm |
| Revolutions/Mile | 619 | 384/km |
| Circumference | 102.4 inches | 2603 mm |
| Tread Width | 10.4 inches | 265 mm |
Why These Measurements Matter?
- Overall Diameter – Affects ride height, handling, and speedometer accuracy.
- Tread Width – Determines road grip and traction, influencing fuel efficiency.
- Sidewall Height – Impacts ride comfort and off-road performance.
- Circumference – Helps calculate speedometer readings and gear ratios.
- Revolutions per Mile – The number of times the tire rotates per mile, affecting odometer accuracy.
These figures are essential when selecting new tires, ensuring they match your vehicle’s specifications for safety, fuel economy, and performance.
Breaking Down 265/70R18 – What Do These Numbers Mean?
At first glance, 265/70R18 may look like a random sequence, but each part of it tells you something important about the tire’s size and performance. Let’s break it down:
- 265 – This is the tire width in millimeters, measured from sidewall to sidewall. When converted, this equals 10.4 inches wide.
- 70 – This is the aspect ratio, meaning the tire’s sidewall height is 70% of its width. A higher aspect ratio means a taller sidewall, which improves ride comfort.
- R – This stands for Radial construction, the most common and durable type of tire design.
- 18 – This indicates the diameter of the wheel the tire is designed to fit, measured in inches (18-inch wheels).
Why does this matter? Because these numbers directly affect your vehicle’s performance. A wider tire provides better stability, a taller sidewall absorbs shocks, and the right wheel diameter ensures proper fitment. If you pick the wrong size, it could lead to poor handling, speedometer inaccuracies, and reduced safety.
Converting 265/70R18 in Inches: Step by Step Guide
Tire sizes are typically listed in metric measurements, but converting them to inches makes it easier to compare and understand. Here’s how the 265/70R18 tire size translates into inches:
- Tire Width: 265 mm ÷ 25.4 (since 1 inch = 25.4 mm) = 10.4 inches
- Sidewall Height: 70% of 10.4 inches = 7.3 inches
- Overall Diameter: (Sidewall height × 2) + Wheel diameter
- (7.3 × 2) + 18 = 32.6 inches
- Circumference: Overall diameter × π (3.1416)
- 32.6 × 3.1416 = 102.4 inches
- Revolutions per Mile: 1 mile (63,360 inches) ÷ Circumference (102.4 inches)
- 63,360 ÷ 102.4 = 619 revolutions per mile
Why does this conversion matter? Because it affects:
- Speedometer accuracy – Larger or smaller tires can throw off your speed readings.
- Fuel efficiency – Bigger tires may increase rolling resistance, reducing mileage.
- Vehicle handling – Properly sized tires provide optimal grip and stability.
Understanding these measurements helps ensure you pick the right tires for your driving needs, whether you’re on the highway, off-road, or towing heavy loads.
265/70R18 All-Terrain Tires – Are They Right for You?
If you drive a truck or SUV, all-terrain (A/T) tires are a great option for 265/70R18. Unlike standard highway tires, all-terrain tires are built to handle both on-road and off-road conditions, making them ideal for drivers who need versatility.
Why Choose All-Terrain Tires for 265/70R18?
- Superior Traction – Designed with deeper treads to improve grip on dirt, gravel, mud, and snow.
- Durability – Stronger sidewalls resist punctures, making them perfect for rugged terrain.
- Balanced Performance – Offers a smooth highway ride while still being capable off-road.
- All-Weather Reliability – Performs well in rain, snow, and dry conditions.
Top All-Terrain Tire Options for 265/70R18
If you’re looking for the best 265/70R18 all-terrain tires, here are some popular choices known for their performance and durability:
- BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 – Excellent off-road grip and long tread life.
- Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure – Strong sidewalls and great on-road comfort.
- Falken Wildpeak A/T3W – Aggressive tread pattern for extreme conditions.
- Toyo Open Country A/T III – A great balance of off-road durability and highway comfort.
Pros and Cons of All-Terrain vs. Highway Tires
| Feature | All-Terrain Tires | Highway Tires |
| Off-Road Capability | Excellent | Limited |
| Highway Comfort | Moderate | High |
| Fuel Efficiency | Slightly lower | Better |
| Tread Life | Long-lasting | Longer-lasting |
| Noise Level | Louder | Quieter |
Best Use Cases for All-Terrain Tires
- Off-Roading Enthusiasts – If you frequently drive on trails, gravel, or mud, all-terrain tires are a must.
- Towing & Heavy Loads – These tires provide extra stability for trucks carrying trailers or heavy cargo.
- Daily Driving in Varied Conditions – If you live in an area with rain, snow, or dirt roads, A/T tires offer better traction.
If you mostly drive on paved roads, a highway tire might be a better option for fuel savings and ride comfort. However, if you need versatility, all-terrain tires for 265/70R18 are an excellent investment.
Why 265/70R18 10-Ply Tires Are Perfect for Heavy-Duty Use?
265/70R18 10-ply tires are specifically designed for vehicles that require added strength and resilience. Here’s why they’re great for heavy-duty use:
- 10-Ply Construction:
These tires have 10 layers of material, which makes them much stronger than standard tires. The added plies provide better protection against damage and punctures. - Ideal for Heavy Loads:
The strength of 10-ply tires allows them to handle heavier loads, making them a great choice for trucks or SUVs used for towing or carrying heavy cargo. - Better Off-Road Performance:
10-ply tires offer greater durability on rough or uneven terrain, such as dirt, gravel, or rocks. This makes them a great option for off-roading or driving on rugged surfaces. - Increased Stability:
The added layers provide enhanced stability and support, especially when driving on difficult surfaces or when towing. - Longer Lifespan:
Due to their reinforced structure, 10-ply tires tend to last longer and resist wear and tear, making them a good investment for those who frequently drive in tough conditions.
In summary, 265/70R18 10-ply tires are perfect for those who need durability, stability, and performance under heavy-duty conditions like towing, off-roading, and carrying large loads.
How 265/70R18 Compares to Other Tire Sizes?
Choosing the right tire size can feel overwhelming, especially when there are several similar options available. If you’re considering 265/70R18 but wondering how it stacks up against other sizes, this tire comparison will help you compare the pros and cons of different alternatives.
265/70R18 vs 255/70R18 – Better MPG vs More Traction
If you’re looking for a tire that improves fuel efficiency, 255/70R18 might be an option. However, it does come with trade-offs.
| Feature | 265/70R18 | 255/70R18 |
| Tread Width | 10.4 inches | 10.0 inches |
| Sidewall Height | 7.3 inches | 7.0 inches |
| Overall Diameter | 32.6 inches | 32.1 inches |
| Fuel Efficiency | Moderate | Slightly better |
| Handling & Stability | More stable | Less grip on turns |
| Towing & Load Capacity | Stronger | Lower weight limit |
265/70R18 vs 275/65R18 – Small Differences, Big Impact
The 275/65R18 is another common alternative to 265/70R18, offering a slightly wider tread but a lower aspect ratio.
| Feature | 265/70R18 | 275/65R18 |
| Tread Width | 10.4 inches | 10.8 inches |
| Sidewall Height | 7.3 inches | 7.0 inches |
| Overall Diameter | 32.6 inches | 32.1 inches |
| On-Road Stability | Good | Slightly better |
| Ride Comfort | Smooth | Firmer ride |
Which Tire Size is Best for You?
- For fuel economy & daily driving → 255/70R18
- For balance between off-road & highway use → 265/70R18
- For maximum off-road grip → 285/65R18
- For sharper handling on paved roads → 275/65R18
Understanding these differences can help you choose the best tire for your needs without compromising safety or performance.
To ensure optimal performance, be sure to consult a professional for further advice or visit our Tire Repair page for expert services.
FAQs
Q. How does 265/70R18 affect fuel efficiency?
The wider tread and taller sidewall create more rolling resistance, which can slightly reduce fuel efficiency compared to smaller or narrower tires. Keeping tires properly inflated helps minimize this impact.
Q. Can I replace 265/70R18 with a different size?
Yes, but it’s important to match the overall diameter to avoid speedometer errors and handling issues. Always check your vehicle’s manual or consult a professional before switching tire sizes.
Q. Are 265/70R18 all-terrain tires good for daily driving?
Yes, all-terrain tires offer a balance between off-road durability and highway comfort, but they may be slightly louder and less fuel-efficient than highway tires. Choose based on your driving needs.
