The new Firestone Destination M/T2 tire from Bridgestone Americas Inc. is designed to provide maximum traction for 4x4 vehicles, pickup trucks and SUVs in off-road conditions.
The next-generation tire replaces the Firestone Destination M/T, which came out in 2002. Bridgestone says the M/T2 tire “does everything better” than its predecessor. Advances in tire technology, especially compounding, are responsible for improvements in off-road, snow and wet performance.
A new tread compound, three-ply sidewall construction and more aggressive upper sidewall lugs give the Destination M/T2 increased traction in mud and offer stronger resistance to chips and tears.
To maximize traction in mud, Bridgestone placed the tire lugs at 23-degree angles, an innovation borrowed from its farm tractor tires. The “23-degree attack angles” provide more pulling power through rough terrain, according to the company. Stone and mud rejectors help keep the tread clear of debris.
The Firestone Destination M/T2 tire has 20% more biting edges than the predecessor tire for better grip on slick, wet surfaces and in snow conditions. The company also added sipes for better snow traction capability compared to the prior tire. In addition, the Firestone Destination M/T2 tire is studdable.
Two types of buyers
Product manager Justin Hayes told Modern Tire Dealer two types of drivers will buy the Firestone Destination M/T2 tire. One purchaser “really cares” about performance and off-road traction capability.
“For that type of customer we’ve significantly improved the off-road performance capabilities versus the current generation Destination M/T on dry rocks, wet rocks, creeks, mud and sand. In all of these types of off-road conditions, the traction capabilities of the Destination M/T2 have been improved.”
Hayes says the other type of driver who would purchase an M/T tire primarily cares about the look of the product.
“For this type of driver the Destination M/T2 has a much more aggressive look and design than the previous generation product. The tread area has been totally redesigned. The off shoulder area has more rubber and a more protruding image for the driver who wants the tire to look aggressive.”
Hayes specified two areas of “marked improvement” versus the earlier tire. The combination of the new tread compound and new lug design significantly improved chip tear and lug tear performance. The addition of siping to the tread pattern is a contributing factor to improved snow handling capability.
The Firestone Destination M/T2 tire is available in 29 sizes for 15- to 22-inch wheels. The fitments include three 37-inch tires. Delivery to stores begins in July. Most of the tires will be made at the Bridgestone plant in Joliette, Quebec.
Hayes says the Destination M/T2 pricing will be similar to its predecessor, giving drivers additional performance and capability at no additional cost.
“For the Destination M/T2 we targeted best-in-class performance without charging the highest price in the industry. We feel this product will offer tremendous value for someone looking for an M/T tire.”
Key fitments for the Destination M/T2 are the Toyota Tacoma TRD, Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Rubicon. The M/T2 will compete against the BFGoodrich T/A KM2 and the Toyo Open Country M/T.
“We built a tough tire that attacks the terrain,” says Erik Seidel, president, consumer replacement tire sales, U.S. and Canada, Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations.
“Overlanders and weekend warriors expect their tires to perform across a wide range of intense conditions, and the Destination M/T2 delivers an incredible off-road driving experience.” ■
