After a decade of anticipation, BFGoodrich has officially launched its latest all-terrain offering, the T/A KO3, setting a new standard in off-road tyre performance. Designed to succeed the acclaimed KO2, the KO3 was unveiled at Johannesburg’s Lion and Safari Park, where media and guests had the opportunity to experience the tyre’s advancements firsthand. Bringing together BFGoodrich’s American roots and Michelin’s expertise, the KO3 represents an exciting leap forward in durability, traction, and reliability, addressing the unique challenges of both off-road and on-road driving.

Building on the KO2’s legacy
The KO2, introduced nearly 10 years ago, earned its reputation as a go-to choice for serious off-road enthusiasts due to its toughness and reliability on rugged terrain. However, with new developments in tyre technology and a decade of consumer feedback, BFGoodrich saw an opportunity to push its all-terrain range to new heights with the KO3. Harold Phillips, Global General Manager at BFGoodrich, shared the motivation behind the upgrade: “We’ve done a lot of racing and research since the KO2 launched, so a decade of data, feedback, and experience went into developing the KO3. We are our own competition, and we knew it was time to elevate the all-terrain tyre further.”
Enhanced durability and traction for all terrains
The KO3 brings several critical enhancements to address the challenges of varied terrain. The advanced tread design and interlocking elements provide stronger traction on soft sand, loose gravel, and rocky surfaces, making it ideal for the diverse landscapes encountered by off-road drivers. This tyre is designed for rugged paths as much as for gravel roads, offering a balanced performance that many all-terrain tyres struggle to achieve.

A key feature of the KO3 is BFGoodrich’s CoreGard technology, which strengthens the tyre’s sidewalls, a vital addition for those who frequently drive on rocky paths. The risk of punctures and sidewall damage is high on rough terrain, but CoreGard’s reinforced sidewall protection means the KO3 can withstand sharp objects and jagged edges that would damage most other tyres. This upgrade was tested during the event on sharp, rocky trails, where even after navigating through severe terrain, the KO3’s sidewalls remained unscathed.
The KO3’s tread pattern also incorporates full-depth 3D sipes, which improve traction in both dry and wet conditions. Traditional all-terrain tyres can struggle on wet roads, often sacrificing some on-road performance for off-road resilience. However, the KO3’s updated tread patterns have specifically addressed this challenge, giving drivers greater confidence even on slippery tarmac. Though it may not fully compete with specialised road tyres in the rain, the KO3’s wet-road handling is an improvement over its predecessor and a welcome feature for those who face unpredictable weather conditions.

Testing the KO3’s strength and comfort
To put the KO3’s abilities to the test, we took it for a spin in a Toyota Hilux over a range of surfaces, from muddy tracks to loose gravel and rocky paths. One of the immediate standouts was the KO3’s shock absorption and quiet performance. The tyres moulded well to the road surface, absorbing bumps and reducing cabin noise, making the typically rough ride of a Hilux more comfortable. Even on steep gravel ascents and descents, the grip was exceptional, providing a sense of stability and inspiring confidence for even less-experienced off-road drivers.
In wet conditions, the KO3 demonstrated improved performance, holding traction on slippery surfaces. All-terrain tyres are traditionally prone to loss of grip in the wet, but the KO3’s updates have minimised this issue, giving drivers a more controlled experience in less-than-ideal conditions. That said, for drivers new to all-terrain tyres, it’s essential to remember that stopping distances are still longer and cornering is less precise than on dedicated road tyres. While the KO3 handles these trade-offs better than most, it is ultimately designed for versatility across all terrains rather than specialised on-road grip.
Core features and competitive edge
Beyond its impressive traction, the KO3 introduces a new tyre compound that enhances both durability and grip, extending the tyre’s life on rough surfaces. The full-depth 3D grooves, interlocking tread elements, and extended shoulder design provide added strength to withstand harsh conditions. This durability makes the KO3 a particularly appealing choice for overlanders and adventure drivers, who can count on the tyre to hold up over long distances and demanding terrain.
To ensure the KO3 meets the standards of both recreational drivers and professional off-roaders, BFGoodrich collaborated with the Red-Lined Motorsports team, specialists in Dakar and Rally Raid car builds. The team put the KO3 through punishing tests designed to push its limits, and the tyre emerged with high marks for toughness and reliability. For most drivers, this level of abuse is unlikely, but it’s reassuring to know that the KO3 can withstand extreme conditions if necessary.
Cost and long-term value

BFGoodrich has stated that the KO3 will be priced similarly to the KO2, which starts at around R4 600 per tyre in South Africa. These prices are based on a tyre size of 265/65 R17. While this is on the higher end of the all-terrain tyre spectrum, it’s worth noting that the KO2 established itself as a leader in durability and long-term value, and the KO3 is expected to follow suit. Competing models such as Goodyear’s Wranglers and Bridgestone’s Duellers are priced around R2 800t o R4 600 per tyre, so the KO3 is positioned as a premium option for those who prioritise toughness and mileage.
Conclusion
In the world of all-terrain tyres, the KO3 stands out as a product that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in off-road performance. Combining BFGoodrich’s motorsport expertise with Michelin’s technology, the KO3 is both rugged and refined, offering drivers a balanced option that can handle almost any terrain. Whether you’re traversing rocky trails, tackling muddy paths, or simply navigating city streets, the KO3 provides dependable performance and peace of mind.
While it may not replace specialised road tyres on tarmac, the KO3 is a robust choice for those who need a tyre that performs across a wide range of conditions. Its advanced features – such as CoreGard sidewall protection, full-depth sipes, and a new tread pattern – make it a formidable contender in the all-terrain market.
For overlanders, adventurers, and everyday drivers alike, the KO3 represents a new generation of tyre technology that blends toughness with comfort. BFGoodrich’s latest all-terrain marvel is set to become a favourite among those who want to conquer all terrains without compromising on-road performance. With the KO3, BFGoodrich has redefined the balance between rugged capability and refined handling, proving that you don’t have to choose between toughness and versatility.