Bridgestone Blizzak DM-Z3

Reviews recommend the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-Z3 as the best snow tire for SUVs and light trucks, especially in harsh winter climates where snow and ice performance is critical. Some consumers report that the Blizzak DM-Z3 wears out quickly, but its main drawback is that it doesn't brake that well on wet and dry roads -- a common flaw among winter tires for light trucks and SUVs, according to reviews. Consumers give the pricier Pirelli Scorpion Ice and Snow (*Est. $160) and Michelin Latitude X-Ice (*Est. $150) slightly higher marks on wet and dry roads, although they prefer the Blizzak DM-Z3 on snow and ice. In mild-winter regions, where rain and dry weather are more common than ice and snow, critics say the less expensive Continental ContiWinterContact TS810 (*Est. $80) is the best choice.

Consumer Reports' experts test the Bridgestone Blizzak DM-Z3 and rank it against other winter tires, but the report is available only to subscribers. Canada's Automobile Protection Association, a nonprofit funded by consumer memberships, includes the Blizzak DM-Z3 in its reliable rankings. At TireRack.com, a retail site, 350 owners provide detailed ratings of the Blizzak DM-Z3. We found additional owner-written reviews at another Canadian site, 1010Tires.com.