Multifunctional behavior of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was investigated in a typical solution-grade styrene butadiene rubber (S-SBR)-based tread compound in connection with its potential as reinforcing filler as well as processing aid. Optimum physical properties were obtained when the loading of MCC was at 10% of the precipitated silica amount by substituting silica. The presence of MCC in mixes had shown reduction in Mooney viscosity. Peak power consumption during mixing was also found lower for such mixes. Because of enhanced plasticity, it was possible to reduce aromatic oil dosage by 3 phr (equivalent to 18% of the original oil amount) to get the Mooney viscosity and physicomechanical properties comparable to those of the control compound.