Yokohama BluEarth GT AE51 Review — Eco Grand Touring SUV for NZ
Overall Rating: 8.5 / 10
Category: Eco Grand Touring SUV
Price in NZ: From $274 per tyre
Best for: Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5 — eco-conscious family SUVs
Quick Verdict
The Yokohama BluEarth GT AE51 is Yokohama’s entry-level eco SUV tyre — delivering Orange Oil compound fuel efficiency at an accessible price point for NZ family SUV owners. At $274, it is among the most affordable SUV tyres from a premium Japanese brand, making it a practical default replacement for RAV4 Hybrid, CR-V, and CX-5 owners who want Yokohama quality without the cost of the higher-tier Geolandar or Advan Sport ranges.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Category | Eco Grand Touring SUV |
| EU Label — Wet Grip | B |
| EU Label — Fuel Efficiency | C |
| Speed Ratings | H (210), V (240 km/h) |
| Available Rim Sizes | 15″, 16″, 17″, 18″ |
| NZ Price Range | $274 – $380 (varies by size) |
| Key Technology | Orange Oil compound (Yokohama eco technology) |
Performance Profile
Eco focus: Orange Oil compound reduces rolling resistance versus conventional SUV tyres. For RAV4 Hybrid and CR-V owners, this eco alignment extends electric range and improves hybrid fuel economy.
Wet safety: EU Label B — adequate for everyday NZ SUV driving in rain. One step below the A-rating of the premium Geolandar range.
Highway comfort: Good — the BluEarth compound prioritises smooth, quiet motorway cruising appropriate for family SUV use.
NZ Road Conditions Assessment
Auckland and North Island: Good. Family SUV owners in Auckland who use their vehicle for urban and motorway driving benefit from the BluEarth GT AE51’s eco credentials and comfortable ride. For drivers who venture off-road or onto gravel, the Geolandar AT G015 is more appropriate.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Most affordable Yokohama SUV tyre ($274) with Orange Oil eco technology
- Comfortable highway ride appropriate for family SUVs
- Yokohama Japanese quality standards
Cons
- EU Label B wet grip — below premium alternatives
- Not for off-road use
Sources
- Yokohama BluEarth GT AE51 — yokohama.com — accessed 2026-06-04
- Tyroola NZ pricing — tyroola.co.nz/tyre/yokohama/ — accessed 2026-06-04
Related Pages
- Yokohama Geolandar AT G015 — for off-road capability
- Yokohama Tyres NZ — brand overview
