All-terrain tyres often promise the best of both worlds, and the Apollo Apterra AT2 is no different. Although its aggressive tread pattern hints at serious off-road capabilities, it is built to handle regular road driving too. Recently, we tested the Apterra AT2 in the 215/75 R15 size on the Maruti Suzuki Jimny, and here’s what we found after living with it on everyday roads.
Overview
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Apollo Apterra AT2:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Make | Apollo Tyres |
| Model | Apterra AT2 (BSW) |
| Type | All-terrain SUV tyre |
| Size | 215/75 R15 |
| Price | Rs. 7,960 per tyre |
| Availability | Apollo Tyres website |
While AT tyres offer a good balance, it is important to remember they are still a compromise between on-road and off-road performance. Here’s how the Apterra AT2 performed on-road compared to the Jimny’s stock 195-section highway tyres.
Pros
One major improvement was the steering stability at highway speeds. Where the stock tyres made the Jimny feel twitchy above 80kmph, the wider Apterra AT2 kept it more planted. This has made highway driving noticeably less tiring.
Steering Feel
The steering now feels a bit heavier but more connected. While it does not transform the Jimny into a sharp handler, the increased weight gives a stronger sense of feedback through the wheel.
Road Holding
Thanks to the wider 215mm section and better grip from the Apterra’s compound, the Jimny feels more composed through turns. Whether it is tight mall parking ramps or quick highway bends, there is less understeer and better overall confidence.
Visual Presence
Visually, the Apterra AT2 gives the Jimny a much more rugged and serious stance. The chunkier tread pattern and wider contact patch enhance both its road presence and its functional readiness for off-road adventures.
Cons
At lower speeds, particularly when making tight turns or parking, the Jimny’s steering feels heavier. It is manageable but noticeable, especially in comparison to the stock tyres.
Ride Comfort
The ride has become a bit firmer at city speeds under 30kmph. The extra firmness seems to stem from the tread design rather than the sidewall construction.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy has taken a hit. From a little over 13kmpl with the stock tyres, we are now seeing figures closer to 12kmpl, especially in stop-and-go city traffic. Highway efficiency, however, remains relatively stable.
Tyre noise was expected to rise with the blocky Apterra tread pattern, but in practice, the Jimny’s cabin is already noisy from engine and wind sounds. Any increase in tyre noise is difficult to isolate.
Overall, for those planning to use their Jimny both on and off the road, the Apollo Apterra AT2 seems to be a worthwhile upgrade, keeping practicality and aesthetics in mind. In our next report, we will dive deeper into its off-road capabilities.
FAQs
Is the Apollo Apterra AT2 good for highway use?
Yes, it improves highway stability and steering feel.
Does the Apterra AT2 affect ride comfort?
It slightly firms up the ride at low speeds.
What is the tyre size tested on the Jimny?
We tested the 215/75 R15 size.
Is there a fuel efficiency drop with AT tyres?
Yes, we noticed a drop of about 1kmpl in city driving.
How much does the Apollo Apterra AT2 cost?
It is priced at Rs. 7,960 per tyre, available on Apollo’s website.
