Toyo launches UTV version of Open Country LT tire

CYPRESS, Calif.—Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. is venturing into the growing powersports market for the first time, launching a dedicated version of its Open Country light truck line for side-by-side ultra-terrain vehicles.

The Open Country SxS is based on the race-tested Open Country M/T-R in a smaller package designed for the more popular sport and supersport side-by-sides, such as the Polaris RZR, Can-Am Maverick and Arctic Cat Wildcat, Toyo said. The product launches in one size, 32x9.50R15 LT, which provides the high ground clearance necessary for off-roading with these type vehicles.

Features include hook-shaped tread blocks for traction in a variety of conditions, including sand, mud and rocks, Toyo said. A silhouette of the tread wraps onto the sidewall for extra grip, whether on extreme angles or on low traction surfaces.

In addition, a bruise- and abrasion-resistant sidewall compound helps protect the tire from damage.

The Open Country SxS already is race-proven with a win in the stock UTV class at the 2019 National Off-Road Racing Association Mexican 1000, Toyo said.

Toyo stresses that the Open Country SxS is for recreational use only, and not for use on the highway or for use on light trucks or SUVs. It's built in Japan.

"Our staff was extremely dedicated and tenacious in developing the new Open Country SxS," Adrian Puente, manager of motorsports, said. He added that it was "very rewarding" for the development team at Toyo to "finally bring the right tire to market for this ever-growing group of enthusiasts … ."

Toyo is the latest tire company to recognize the potential of this market. Others include: Toyo's sister company Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc.; Michelin North America/BFGoodrich; and Tireco Inc.