Yokohama BluEarth GT AE51 Review – Eco Grand Touring SUV for NZ

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

SpecificationDetail
CategoryEco Grand Touring SUV
EU Label — Wet GripB
EU Label — Fuel EfficiencyC
Speed RatingsH (210), V (240 km/h)
Available Rim Sizes15″, 16″, 17″, 18″
NZ Price Range$274 – $380 (varies by size)
Key TechnologyOrange 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

  1. Yokohama BluEarth GT AE51 — yokohama.com — accessed 2026-06-04
  2. Tyroola NZ pricing — tyroola.co.nz/tyre/yokohama/ — accessed 2026-06-04

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