• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

TireTerrain

  • Home
  • How to Use Tire Decision Tools
  • Comparison & Reviews
    • By Tire Type
      • All Terrain Tires
        • Rugged Terrain Tires
        • On-Road All Terrain Tires
        • Off-Road All Terrain Tires
        • Highway-Terrain Tires
      • Passenger Tires
        • All-Season
        • All-Weather Tires
        • Performance Tires
    • Best Tires
      • by Vehicle
      • by Category
      • by Size
      • by Driving Condition
  • Pro Tips
  • About
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact
Home » Comparisons & Reviews » Michelin Crossclimate 2 vs Defender

Michelin Crossclimate 2 vs Defender

Updated: April 18, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

While Michelin Crossclimate 2 has been released as a grand touring all-weather tire, Michelin Defender LTX is an all-season highway tire. Unlike Crossclimate 2, it offers commercial usage on mild and heavy-duty operations. At first blush, you can see distinguish in their patterns. Though, what does this difference brings to them? Let’s examine them thoroughly.

Crossclimate 2's V-shaped pattern is perfect for water evacuation, hence, aquaplaning resistance
Michelin Crossclimate 2Michelin Defender T+HMichelin Defender LTX M/SMichelin Defender 2
Better forAll-round tire can handle everythingThe region doesn’t see snow often,
fuel efficiency
Light-trucks,
working trucks,
hauling & towing
Longevity,
Responsiveness,
Fuel-efficiency,
Mostly warm regions
ProsInsane wet and snow traction,
long-lasting rubber,
cool design
Satisfying wet and dry traction,
handle light snow,
long-lasting rubber,
quiet ride
Satisfying wet and dry traction,
handle light snow,
long-lasting rubber,
quiet ride,
mild off-road traction
Insane wet and dry traction,
handle light snow,
long-lasting rubber,
quiet, agile, and smooth ride
ConsSlightly noisyCan’t handle severe snow conditionsCan’t handle severe snow conditions,
a bit harsh ride due to stiff sidewalls
Due to its stiff compound, its winter performance is limited

Michelin tires excel in diverse driving needs. The Crossclimate 2 reigns as the best all-weather tire, offering unmatched snow/wet traction and smooth handling for SUVs, crossovers, and light trucks (non-hauling). For warm climates, the Defender 2 (upgraded Defender T+H) prioritizes longevity and responsiveness but falters in winter due to its stiff compound. The Defender LTX M/S thrives on light trucks, blending 80% on-road comfort with 20% off-road durability, ideal for towing/hauling. Meanwhile, the Defender T+H suits sedans and small SUVs in mild climates with a quieter ride. Choose Crossclimate 2 for year-round versatility, Defender 2 for warm-region longevity, LTX M/S for heavy-duty needs, and T+H for everyday mild-weather driving. All deliver Michelin’s signature all-around excellence.

Nobody Knows Better Than Data

As a former Bridgestone test engineer, I’ve tested hundreds of tires—and trust me, data never lies. Discount Tire Treadwell is a goldmine. Just enter your location and vehicle—boom, it shows you the best picks! You can even prioritize what matters most (comfort, durability, winter traction—you name it).

Want a full walkthrough? Check out my simple guide here—I explain how to use Treadwell to match your exact needs.

 

All-Season Tires Cheat Sheet

Finding the most suitable one for you among thousands of tires is very difficult.

My team & I have analyzed 100 different tires and generated this ‘Quick Answer Sheet‘ for those who don’t wanna spend too much time during tire selection.

Before we start, here are the incredibly helpful articles I highly recommend to take a look at;

  • How to keep tire noise down:
    https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-noise
  • Fuel-Efficiency:
    https://www.discounttire.com/learn/rolling-resistance
  • Tire rating charts & reviews
    https://www.tirerack.com/tires/rating-chart&reviews
  • Tire test report
    https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tests
Below the table, you can find my favorite tires that I have classified according to your needs.
All-Season Tires Cheat Sheet
NameBest forWorks Best onArticles3PMSFRoad NoiseMileageResponsivenessRiding ComfortWarrantyFuel EconomyWet PerformanceMild WinterSevere Winter

Michelin Crossclimate 2
(Test Report – Check Price)

Year Round Usage & Tread LifeSedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, minivansReviewYesDecentElegantElegantDecent60,000DecentElegantElegantDecent
Michelin Primacy Tour A/S
(Test Report – Check Price)
Everything but severe winter tractionSedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVsReviewNoElegantElegantElegantElegant45,000 – 55,000DecentElegantAverageFairy Well
Bridgestone WeatherPeak
(Test Report – Check Price)
Smooth & quiet 4 season drivingSedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, minivansReviewYesElegantDecentElegantElegant70,000ElegantDecentElegantAverage
Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus
(Test Report – Check Price)
Great all-round run-flat tireSUV, CUV, Sedans, CoupesReviewNoAverageExcellentExcellentExcellent65,000AverageExcellentDecentAverage
Vredestein Quatrac Pro
(Test Report – Check Price)
4-Season performance-driven ridingSedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVsReviewYesElegantDecentElegantElegant50,000DecentElegantElegantAverage
Vredestein HiTrac All-Season
(Test Report – Check Price)
Year round performance with great handlingSedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVsNoDecentDecentElegantDecent70,000DecentElegantDecentAverage
Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3
(Test Report – Check Price)
Great all-round performance + mild winterSedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVsReviewNoElegantElegantElegantElegant70,000ElegantDecentDecentAverage
Nokian WRG4
(Check Price)
Traction focused 4 season drivingSedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, minivansReviewYesDecentDecentDecentElegant65,000AverageElegantElegantDecent
Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady
(Test Report – Check Price)
Year-round traction + handlingSedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, minivans–YesAverageDecentElegantElegant60,000AverageElegantElegantAverage
Firestone WeatherGrip
(Test Report – Check Price)
Winter-focused 4 season drivingSedans, coupes, crossoversReviewYesAverageFairy WellAverageDecent65,00Fairy WellAverageElegantElegant
BF Goodrich Advantage Control
(Test Report – Check Price)
Quiet & smooth 3 season traction + light snowSedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVsReviewNoDecentDecentElegantDecent65,000 – 75,000ElegantDecentAveragePoor
Kumho Crugen HP71
(Test Report – Check Price)
Decent all-round performance + light snowCUV, SUVReviewNoAverageAverageDecentDecent65,000DecentDecentDecentFairy Well
Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra
(Test Report – Check Price)
Long lasting performance for squishy regionsCrossovers, SUVs, light trucksReviewNoDecentDecentDecentDecent70,000DecentElegantDecentFairy Well
Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring AS
(Check Price)
Affordable 3 season tractionSedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVsReviewNoAverageAverageDecentDecent70,000DecentAverageFairy WellPoor
Goodyear Assurance All-Season
(Test Report – Check Price)
Affordable all-round 3 season + light snow performanceSedans, minivansReviewNoDecentDecentDecentDecent65,000DecentDecentAverageFairy Well
Goodyear Assurance MaxLife
(Test Report – Check Price)
Longevitiy focused 3 season traction + light snowSedans, coupes, crossovers, minivansReviewNoDecentElegantElegantElegant85,000ElegantDecentAveragePoor
Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack
(Test Report – Check Price)
Comfort-focused 3 season traction + light snowSedans, coupes, crossovers, minivansReviewNoElegantDecentElegantElegant80,000ElegantElegantDecentFairy Well
Goodyear Assurance ComfortDrive
(Test Report – Check Price)
Above average all-round performanceSedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVsReviewNoDecentElegantElegantElegant60,000AverageElegantDecentAverage
Michelin Defender T+H
(Test Report – Check Price)
Efficiency focused 3 season performanceSedans, coupes, crossoversvs Crossclimate 2NoDecentDecentDecentDecent80,000ElegantDecentFairy WellPoor
BF Goodrich Advantage T/A Sport
(Test Report – Check Price)
Long lasting 4 season performance + handlingSedans, coupes, crossovers–NoAverageDecentDecentDecent60,000 – 70,000AverageDecentDecentFairy Well
Continental TrueContact Tour
(Test Report – Check Price)
Smooth & long-lasting 3 season performance + light snowSedans, coupes, crossovers–NoDecentDecentDecentDecent70,000 – 80,000DecentElegantAverageFairy Well
Yokohama Avid Ascend LX
(Test Report – Check Price)
Long-lasting & responsive 4 season performanceSedans, coupes, crossovers, minivansNoDecentElegantElegantElegant85,000ElegantDecentDecentFairy Well
Laufenn S Fit AS
(Check Price)
Long-lasting sporty drivingSUV, CUV, Sedans, CoupesReviewNoDecentDecentExcellentDecent45,000DecentDecentAveragePoor

If you’re in a hurry, here are the tires worth every penny;

  • Michelin Crossclimate 2 – Best for All-Round & Heavy Snow
  • Michelin Primacy Tour A/S – Best All-Round & Moderate Snow
  • Nokian WRG4 – Best for Comfort & Heavy Snow
  • Nokian WRG4 SUV – Best for Comfort & Heavy Snow
  • Bridgestone WeatherPeak – Best for All-Round & Moderate Snow
  • Goodyear ComfortDrive – Best All-Round & Light Snow
  • BF Goodrich Advantage T/A Sport – Best for Longevity & Light Snow

Depending on your needs, the below article might help;

  • https://tireterrain.com/best-all-weather-tires-for-snow/
  • https://tireterrain.com/bridgestone-vs-michelin/
  • https://tireterrain.com/best-michelin-tires-for-suv/

I highly recommend checking the below pages out before making any purchase:

  • DiscountTire Deals:
    https://www.discounttire.com/promotions
  • TireRack Deals:
    https://www.tirerack.com/specialoffers
  • SimpleTire Deals:
    https://simpletire.com/tire-deals

Table of Contents

Grand Touring vs Touring

I have a lot to talk about this topic. Yet, I don’t want to deviate from the aim. Though, I will give you brief information for this time. I’ve talked about this topic in this article shortly. You might wanna check it.

Either grand touring or standard touring tires can perform in all seasons. Yes, they are both all-season tires but a bit different due to their technical capabilities. Hence, I like to consider Michelin Crossclimate 2 as an all-weather tire.

Grand Touring tires can do what touring tires can do. Well, they are a bit upgraded version due to performance. Touring tires focus on comfort. However, grand touring tires are your tire if you mostly focus on performance.

Grand TouringTouring
Better handlingSlightly longer tread life
Higher speed ratingsCheaper
Smoother ride

The above table will give you a summary of information about our comparison.

Tread Appearance Comparison

Close-up Crossclimate2

Crossclimate 2 has a unique tread pattern design. Most grand touring tires have asymmetrical designs. Well, Michelin made an exceptional move this time and use a symmetrical pattern. Moreover, this pattern is V-shaped. V-shaped is used for performance tires. I will detailly talk about this design in other sections.

However, Defender LTX has a common highway all-season design for SUVs and light trucks. With 4 circumferential grooves to improve water evacuation to increase wet performance. Moreover, you can see the sipes cover all tire pattern that enhances grip on every surface.

If you are riding SUVs, 1/2-ton trucks, or crossovers, Crossclimate 2 can provide you with a more aggressive appearance and better performance on highways.

Comfort Comparison

Comfort is where grand touring tires step ahead. Let’s see the reasons behind this!

The main reason is compound. Grand Touring tires are made with softer compounds. Well, manufacturers should use softer compounds due to increased grip ability at high velocity. This is the point that higher speed ratings get into the game.

Michelin Crossclimate 2 offers a smoother ride due to its softer compound. Yet, Defender LTX is a perfect option for those who need better durability.

Road Noise

Unlike Crossclimate2, Defender LTX can be used on light-trucks

Noise reduction is a must for touring tires. Well, Crossclimate 2’s specific tread stays behind a bit for this time.

Crossclimate 2 has an interlock center section that pretends like lugs instead of ribs. Well, that increases road noise slightly. Yet, this feature brings a lot due to traction.

On the flip side, Defender LTX has a regular all-season tire design that reduces noise very well due to the continuous rib design.

Michelin Crossclimate 2 is a slightly less vocal tire. However, the difference is too small. That result is also caused by the wrong speed rating selection. I will detailly talk about it in the conclusion section.

A side note here: Even though some tires tend to make noise because of their tread patterns, it’s still possible to keep your tire noise down.

I’m leaving a perfect explanation below from DiscountTire for those who need it;

How to Keep Tire Noise Down? –>
https://www.discounttire.com/learn/tire-noise

Tread Life

Crossclimate 2 has unique tread life for this aggressive design. If you are using regular 3/4 or 1-ton trucks, you might not get the same result as you get from your previous tires. Well, this tire has a unique tread life for Jeep’s, 1/2 ton, SUVs, large SUVs.

However, Defender LTX can be used in all segments. It has a wide range of applications. Yet, it offers trustworthy tread life for heavy-duty applications and heavy trucks like RAM2500 or Ford F350.

Both tires are trustworthy options due to Michelin’s unique compound selection.

Getting maximum wear life from a tire is related to you as well as your tire,

If you’d like to learn how to get maximum tread life:

https://tireterrain.com/how-to-make-tires-last-longer/

Warranty

Michelin Defender LTX –> 6 Years / 70,000 Miles (T- & H-Speed Rated)  6 Years / 50,000 Miles (R-Speed Rated) / Warranty document: https://www.tirerack.com/images/pdf/warranty/MI0619.pdf

Michelin Crossclimate 2 –> 6 Years / 60,000 Miles / Warranty document: https://www.tirerack.com/images/pdf/warranty/MI0619.pdf

Defender LTX warranty mileage is changeable due to its speed rate. Well, that clue shows that it works better in lower-speed applications.

Wet Performance Comparison

Low-profile Crossclimate 2's can be used as a performance tire

Reliable wet performance is what we’re all expecting from tires. Well, both meet your expectations on wet.

Comparing Crossclimate 2 with other tires is a bit unfair to competitors. This tire has a performance tire design that gives it a huge advantage on wet surfaces. A V-shaped tire pattern evacuates water uncomplicatedly.

On the other hand, Defender LTX is one of the top competitors among all-season tires. It’s very well-siped and has a massive grip ability. Moreover, full-width shoulder sipes can provide better traction even in puddles.

Both are very trustworthy options. Yet, Crossclimate 2 is unbeatable in this section.

Note: Hydroplaning is vital for a safe ride under the pouring rain. However, it might occur even with the best tire. Maybe you can’t prevent it but if you know what it is and how to deal with it, you can easily stay on the safe side.

Here is an extremely efficient guide about ‘How to Deal with Hydroplaning?‘ –> https://www.discounttire.com/learn/hydroplaning

Winter Performance

Winter performance is where these two are separated. Well, the decision is solid. A tire with 3-peak snowflake marking always wins!

In that case, Crossclimate2 is our winner in this section. It’s severe snow-rated that guaranteed winter performance. On the other hand, Defender LTX is an average tire on snow.

If you have an SUV and looking for a solid winter tire, I recommend you to try that one also!

Dry Performance

Dry traction isn’t an issue for premium brand(Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear) tires. In a word, these two Michelin branded tires have highly appreciated dry performance. Well, Crossclimate 2 has a slight advantage due to being a grand touring tire.

Handling

Due to the higher speed rating, Crossclimate 2 should have uniformly distributed rubber. That brings 2 advantages. First, better handling, second easy balance. Moreover, a V-shaped design is used for performance tires. Well, it is all about handling. 

Both are very trustworthy options. Yet, Crossclimate 2 is unique.

Note: Pay attention to your vehicle’s speed rating before deciding your pick. You might wanna check this guide for a better selection.

Dry Traction

This section can be considered as a draw for me.

While Crossclimate 2 steps up with a V-shaped pattern and softer compound, Defender LTX answers it with a well-placed notch.

Both have massive dry traction, you can go with either way. Still, if you need a higher load range, I recommend Crossclimate 2.

Off-Road Performance

Let’s keep it short. If you’re facing off-road regularly, Defender LTX is your tire.

Crossclimate 2‘s soft compound can’t handle harsh surfaces. On dirt, mud, and sand, it’s fine. For gravel and rock, it’s rubbish.

Specs

Michelin Defender T+HMichelin Crossclimate 2Michelin Defender LTX M/S
CategoryTouring All-SeasonGrand Touring All-WeatherHighway All-Season
VehiclePassenger Car/MinivanPassenger Car/Minivan/SUVSUV/Light Truck
Available Sizes (Rim)14”, 15”, 16”, 17”, 18”16”, 17”, 18”, 19”, 20”15”, 16”, 17”, 18”, 19”, 20”, 22”
Weight16 – 28 lbs21 – 32 lbs24 – 58 lbs
Made InUnited StatesUnited StatesUnited States
Severe Snow Rated (3PMSF)NoYesNo
Warranty (P-metric)80,000 Miles60,000 Miles70,000 Miles (50,000 for R-speed rate)
PricesCheck price section to see best possible pricesCheck price section to see best possible pricesCheck price section to see best possible prices

Price

The tire market has a dynamic price policy. Hence, in my point of view, sharing tire price is pointless.

Though, I’ve analyzed the top 10 brands of most popular tire brands.

Here are the dealers with a reasonable price range,

DiscountTire

  • Biggest dealer in the US. Founded in 1960
  • 1000 stores in 35 states. You most probably find one on your parallel street
  • Free rotation and balancing
  • 5% off for DiscountTire cardholders on online purchase
  • Highest rated online tire dealer in Consumer Affairs
  • Almost all brands are available
  • Delivery takes 2-4 days (30% shorter average waiting time when you book online)
  • Frequent discounts and promotions

Michelin Crossclimate 2: https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/michelin-crossclimate2

Michelin Defender LTX: https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/michelin-defender-ltx-m-s

Michelin Defender T+H: https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/michelin-defender-t-+-h

TireRack

  • Fast and Free shipping
  • Usually delivered in 1 day
  • Joint venture with DiscountTire(their installers and dealers are on your service)
  • Tons of installer options, they also help you to choose the best one
  • Mobile installers in many areas, your tires will be replaced while you’re working in the office
  • Tire test results and comparisons can be found on the most product page
  • 4.6/5 points on Google rate

Michelin Crossclimate 2: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/michelin-crossclimate2

Michelin Defender LTX: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/michelin-defender-ltx-m-s

Michelin Defender T+H: https://www.tirerack.com/tires/michelin-defender-t-plus-h

SimpleTire

  • Free shipping
  • Delivered in 2 days
  • Verified shops near you(for mount and balance)
  • Mobile installation option
  • 7 million customers since 2021
  • 4.7/5 points on Google rate
  • Top-notch customer service, you may even request a price match

Michelin Crossclimate 2: https://simpletire.com/brands/michelin-tires/cross-climate2-a-w

Michelin Defender LTX: https://simpletire.com/brands/michelin-tires/defender-ltx-m-s

Michelin Defender T+H: https://simpletire.com/brands/michelin-tires/defender-t-plus-h

While choosing dealers, I especially pay attention to reliability. All of the dealers on this list have 15-20 years of experience in the online tire business. Therefore, I can guarantee a smooth and fast tire buying process.

Conclusion

I hope this comparison is helpful for you guys. Let’s sum up our results.

Michelin Crossclimate 2Michelin Defender T+HMichelin Defender LTX M/SMichelin Defender 2
Better forAll-round tire can handle everythingThe region doesn’t see snow often,
fuel efficiency
Light-trucks,
working trucks,
hauling & towing
Longevity,
Responsiveness,
Fuel-efficiency,
Mostly warm regions
ProsInsane wet and snow traction,
long-lasting rubber,
cool design
Satisfying wet and dry traction,
handle light snow,
long-lasting rubber,
quiet ride
Satisfying wet and dry traction,
handle light snow,
long-lasting rubber,
quiet ride,
mild off-road traction
Insane wet and dry traction,
handle light snow,
long-lasting rubber,
quiet, agile, and smooth ride
ConsSlightly noisyCan’t handle severe snow conditionsCan’t handle severe snow conditions,
a bit harsh ride due to stiff sidewalls
Due to its stiff compound, its winter performance is limited

A quick check list,

  • XL sizes tend to carry more load and offer better handling. Hence, they might be a better pick for bigger vehicles( XL vs SL tires)
  • Please pay attention to the load index and speed index. These metrics are essential if you expect decent tread life
  • There isn’t a bad tire in the market right now, you should just know what to expect from tires

A side note here: If you’d like to get local advice and find the best fit for your driving habits, location, and road conditions DiscountTire – Treadwell Tire Guide can give you masterpiece recommendations.

If you have any further questions, please leave them below!

For those who prefer to see whole market analyze:

  • https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires/
  • https://tireterrain.com/best-all-terrain-tires-for-snow/
  • https://tireterrain.com/best-1-2-ton-truck-tires/
  • https://tireterrain.com/best-3-4-ton-truck-tires/
  • https://tireterrain.com/best-rt-tires/
  • https://tireterrain.com/best-tires-for-snow-plowing/
  • https://tireterrain.com/on-road-all-terrain-tires-highway/

A couple of popular size analyses:

  • https://tireterrain.com/best-35x12-50r20-all-terrain-tires/
  • https://tireterrain.com/best-285-70r17-all-terrain-tires/
  • https://tireterrain.com/best-275-55r20-all-terrain-tires/
  • https://tireterrain.com/best-275-65r18-all-terrain-tires/

Want to learn more about all-terrain tires:

  • https://tireterrain.com/highway-tires-vs-all-terrain-vs-mud-terrain/
  • https://tireterrain.com/all-season-vs-all-terrain-tires/
  • https://tireterrain.com/tire-load-index-and-load-range/
  • https://tireterrain.com/lt-tires-vs-passenger-tires/
  • https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-for-daily-driving/
  • https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-in-snow/
  • https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-loud/
  • https://tireterrain.com/how-long-do-all-terrain-tires-last/
  • https://tireterrain.com/are-all-terrain-tires-good-in-rain/
  • https://tireterrain.com/off-road-tire-pressure-load-range-for-every-rig/

Filed Under: All-Weather Tires, Passenger Tires Tagged With: Comparisons, Michelin, michelin crossclimate 2, michelin defender

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Find Tires

About Me

Hey, it's Emre. I'm the proud dad of two cats, a former Bridgestone field engineer, and I hold degrees in Civil and Industrial engineering. I'm also a firm believer in the motto that "bigger is better." Read More…

Contact Channels

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter

High-End Tires by Category

Best All-Terrain Tires

Best Rugged-Terrain Tires

Best Mud-Terrain Tires

Best All-Season Tires for Snow

Best Tires for Snow Plowing

Best Semi-Truck Tires

Categories

Copyright © 2025

  • Disclaimer
  • About Me
  • Contact