Continental CrossContact A/T2 Launched

Continental Tyres has just launched their CrossContact A/T2, the latest generation of their popular All-terrain SUV tyre making India one of the first global markets to receive this next generation product. The A/T 2 is available in a number of sizes to fit a large range of popular SUVs and 4x4 vehicles. Today we’ll take a deeper dive into how they have improved, how they are to drive around with and who should be looking at a new set.  

The Technology

A/T tyres are some of the hardest tyres to engineer as they have to perform in vast range of terrains. Mud, gravel, sand and wet or dry highways the A/T tyre has to be a jack of all trades. 

Starting with the new BlackPaw compound that continental says will maintain elasticity and control across hot, cold, dry and even wet surfaces. The shoulder design has also been changed to a self-cleaning pattern with an open tread design that will more easily dislodge mud and stones as you continue driving. The tread pattern is also revised and more rigid than before to reduce hydroplaning and enhance braking performance And finally the sidewalls themselves are more robust to resist cuts and abrasive surface on difficult trails for more long term reliability and durability. 

Sizes 

The CrossContact A/T2 will be available in multiple sizes from 15 inch to 18 inch rim widths and this caters to most 4x4 SUVs in the country from the Jimny to the Fortuner. They are already available in over 200+ dealerships and brand stores across the country

The Experience

At the launch event Continental had a course setup for us to both experience and test the new CrossContact A/T2s over some varied terrain. This was both from the passengers seat and from behind the wheel of a few SUV’s like the Thar, Hilux and Fortuner. 

We first set off in the passenger seat as the expert divers tackled some terrain that highlighted the abilities of the tyres. From leaning on the sidewalls with these heavy SUVs at near 45 degree angles, to climbing and descending steep gradients to water crossings and deep slush we did quite a bit with what are supposed to be ‘jack of all trades’ tyres. And the CrossContacts felt secure and didn’t complain even once. So they clearly deliver as promised and all of this was done on stock pressures which is even more impressive. 

What we didn’t do though was any tarmac driving so I can't really comment on their road noise. But our expert drivers did mention that on the road they are on the quiet side for A/T tyres which is always a good thing. 

Another thing that many SUV owners will appreciate is that they also really look the part. Something this quite important with most SUV drivers. Whether you exercise that 4x4 transmission as often as you should, the CrossContacts will at least keep up the impression that you do.