Michelin

Q: What’s different between the Michelin Defender LTX M/S and the new M/S2?

The M/S2 features a stronger internal construction, refined tread design, and better wet handling. It provides improved steering feedback and longer treadwear under loaded conditions compared to the original M/S.

Q: Is the Defender LTX M/S2 good for towing and hauling?

Yes. The M/S2 is tuned for towing and loaded trucks, with a reinforced casing and cooler-running tread that stays stable under heavy use.

Q: How does it perform in rain and snow?

It performs very well in rain, stopping from 50 mph in 100 feet in independent testing. It handles light snow and slush confidently but is not a 3PMSF winter tire.

Q: How quiet and comfortable is the M/S2 compared to the old version?

The new model offers slightly firmer but more controlled ride quality, with comfort and noise scores of 8.50 and 8.25, respectively. It feels smoother and quieter at highway speeds.

Q: How long does the Defender LTX M/S2 last?

Michelin provides a 70,000-mile warranty, and drivers often report 70K–90K miles of use with proper rotations. The tire is optimized for loaded vehicles and can wear faster on lighter setups or EVs.

Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 Review: What Changed and How It Performs on Real Trucks

Updated: November 11, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

The legendary Michelin Defender LTX M/S is gone, and now the spotlight is on the new Michelin Defender LTX M/S2. Michelin didn’t just rename it; they actually reworked the tire from the inside out, and this version looks ready to carry the legacy of one of the most trusted highway all-season tires ever made.

In this review, I’ll go over what’s new, what’s improved, and what actually feels different between the M/S and M/S2. I’ll also dive into real test data and feedback from truck and SUV owners who’ve already spent some miles on it. And as a former Bridgestone field test engineer, I’ll try to explain the technical side of things in a way that doesn’t sound like a boring lab report, just simple, real-world insights on how those changes actually feel behind the wheel.

Note: If you’re here for the Michelin Defender LTX M/S, you’re in the right place! It’s now discontinued, but some retailers still have stock. The newer M/S2 version is the one to check out moving forward.

Quick Look

Michelin Defender LTX M/S2

Tested Rating: 8.7/10

The Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 steps in where the original M/S left off, and it feels like Michelin knew exactly what to fix. The old Defender was already a strong performer, but it leaned a little too much toward comfort and softness under load. The M/S2 tightens things up. Steering feels cleaner, the sidewalls hold shape better when towing, and the tread design helps the tire stay planted without losing that calm highway ride Michelin is known for. It feels like the same tire, just more confident and refined.

When you look at the numbers, the difference makes sense. It stopped from 50 mph in 100 feet on wet pavement, scored 8.5/10 for comfort, 8.25/10 for noise, and 8.0/10 for steering. In light snow, it performed nearly the same as the old M/S, but its wear pattern under load is clearly improved. The M/S2 spreads weight more evenly, giving better long-term stability for trucks and SUVs that actually work. If the original Defender was about smoothness, this one is about staying strong mile after mile.

Best suited for:

Towing and hauling on highways or light construction routes where stability matters more than looks
Full-size pickups and large SUVs like the F-150, Silverado, Expedition, and Tahoe that carry weight regularly
Fleet or work vehicles that need consistent grip, long tread life, and minimal downtime
Year-round highway driving in light to moderate weather where comfort and longevity take priority

Dry Grip and Everyday Stability

Michelin Defender LTX M/S vs M/S2 – Full Performance Comparison

Condition	Metric	Unit	Michelin Defender LTX M/S	Michelin Defender LTX M/S2
Dry	Slalom	sec	5.38	5.30
	Total Lap	sec	31.93	31.27
	Lateral g	g-Force	0.80	0.83
	50–0 mph Braking	ft	91.0	89.1
Wet	Slalom	sec	5.69	5.58
	Total Lap	sec	33.86	33.37
	Lateral g	g-Force	0.68	0.69
	50–0 mph Braking	ft	114.5	110.5
Snow	Acceleration w/TCS	ft	18.30	17.80
Snow	Stopping Distance	ft	68.5	69.7
Ice	Stopping Distance	ft	42.9	43.8

On dry roads, the new Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 feels tighter and more confident than the old M/S. Compared to the previous version, there’s roughly a 2% shorter stop and around a 4% boost in cornering grip, which might not sound like much, but behind the wheel, it’s noticeable. The truck feels more connected and reacts a little faster when you turn in.

Now, looking at the full test group, the M/S2 actually finished last in dry braking with a 140-foot stop, while tires like the Continental TerrainContact H/T managed around 130. But here’s the thing — the Michelin also had some of the highest handling and steering scores in the group. That tells me this tire isn’t chasing flashy numbers on an empty test track. It’s tuned for loaded driving, where stability and steering control matter more than pure braking distance.

If you’ve ever towed or driven with a full bed, you know dry braking tests don’t always tell the whole story. Michelin clearly built the M/S2 for real-world use, where the truck is carrying weight and the road isn’t perfect. The tread is firm enough to keep shape under load, and you can feel how the sidewalls resist roll when cornering.

And the feedback from owners matches that perfectly. A guy on r/F150 said he’s at 70,000 miles with his set and still calls them “quiet and solid.” Another Rivian owner said swapping to the M/S2 made his truck feel “like a totally new vehicle — driving on a cloud compared to the Pirellis.” That’s the story everywhere I look: maybe not the best braking numbers on paper, but in real life, it’s the tire that keeps your truck calm, planted, and predictable.

Wet Traction and Braking

In the wet, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 is one of those tires that just makes you relax behind the wheel. Compared to the old Defender, it stops about 4% shorter and holds around 1% more lateral grip. It’s not a dramatic jump, but that’s exactly what gives the M/S2 its calm, planted feel when you hit standing water or roll through a fast ramp in the rain.

When you look at the full test group, the M/S2 ranked third overall in wet performance, just behind the Continental TerrainContact H/T and Bridgestone Dueler LX. It stopped from 50 mph in 100 feet, compared to 97 ft for Continental and 99 ft for Bridgestone. Its steering score of 7.25 tied the leaders, meaning it delivers the same precise, predictable control without any twitchiness or delay.

That result tells you everything — Michelin didn’t soften the tread just to grab more grip on paper. Instead, they optimized the tread design, siping angles, and shoulder drainage to push water out faster while keeping the compound firm for long wear. In heavy rain, the M/S2 feels stable instead of grabby, and that’s exactly what you want when you’re towing or driving fully loaded.

Real drivers echo the same story. A user on r/Ram_Trucks said the tire feels “smooth for highway driving and the noise level is to a minimum, especially with the windows up.” Another F-150 owner mentioned “these things hold line better than my old Goodyears — no white-knuckle moments in rain.” Those comments match what the data already shows: strong hydroplane resistance, balanced steering, and quiet control instead of short-lived stickiness.

Overall, the M/S2 feels like that tire you can trust when rain shows up halfway through your trip — steady, confident, and never nervous, no matter how heavy the truck or trailer is.

Snow and Winter Grip

In light snow and slush, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 feels slightly more confident than the older M/S. It accelerates about 3% quicker in snow, which means it hooks up a bit faster off the line, especially when traction control kicks in. Stopping distance changed only slightly, with the M/S stopping in 68.5 feet and the M/S2 in 69.7 feet, basically the same within real-world margin. That tells me Michelin didn’t change the compound much, just the way the tread clears snow.

On ice, the results are also close. The new tire stopped in 43.8 feet, about a foot longer than before. But in practice, that’s not something you’ll notice unless you’re driving in freezing rain every morning. What you do feel is how the M/S2 stays smoother during low-speed turns and lane changes. It’s not twitchy or “crunchy” on packed snow like some highway tires.

In broader comparison tests, the M/S2 landed in the middle of the pack for overall winter performance. It needed 82 feet to stop from 25 mph in snow and 105 feet on ice, behind the Continental TerrainContact H/T but ahead of some rivals like the Kumho HT51 and General Grabber H/T. The difference really comes down to tread style, since the Continental’s deeper siping helps initial bite, while Michelin focused more on stability and quiet road behavior once the snow melts.

From an engineering point of view, this makes perfect sense. The M/S2 doesn’t have a 3PMSF rating, but its zigzag sipes and full-depth lateral grooves still deliver the kind of all-season snow grip that most truck owners actually need. It’s tuned for transitional winter conditions — the cold, wet days when roads are half clear, half slushy.

Owners seem to notice that too. A driver on r/F150 mentioned that the M/S2 feels “way more sure-footed on cold, wet mornings,” while another on r/Ram_Trucks said it “clears slush fast and doesn’t feel sketchy like my old Firestones.” Those comments match what the numbers show: good bite in fresh snow, stable in slush, and predictable on icy pavement.

So while the M/S2 isn’t a deep-snow monster, it’s well-balanced for real-world winter driving, especially for anyone who spends more time on plowed roads than mountain passes.

Ride Comfort and Noise

Back-to-back testing between the old Defender LTX M/S and the new M/S2 showed that Michelin didn’t try to reinvent the ride feel — they just fine-tuned it. Both are smooth, quiet, and well-controlled, but the M/S2 feels slightly tauter over small bumps while giving better connection to the road. It’s the kind of change you notice when you drive long enough to feel how the suspension and tire start working together. Test drivers said the M/S2 offers better steering response and control with only a minimal trade-off in softness, which makes sense for newer trucks and SUVs that ride stiffer from the factory.

Noise levels were almost identical, though the M/S2 cleaned up high-frequency harmonics on smooth pavement, while the previous version blended tones better on coarse asphalt. In short, the new tire filters noise differently rather than being quieter overall.

Across the full benchmark group, the M/S2 scored 8.50 for ride comfort, 8.25 for noise, and 8.00 for steering response, landing right behind the Continental TerrainContact H/T (8.75 overall). That’s excellent company for a tire that’s not chasing plushness but stability. The highway stability rating of 8.25 shows how composed it stays at speed — no wandering, no vibration, just a steady feel that makes long trips easier.

From a technical standpoint, that’s exactly what Michelin aimed for. The Evertread 2.0 compound and slightly revised sidewall plies keep the tread planted without making it harsh. It’s firm enough to keep shape under load but flexible enough to smooth out expansion joints and minor cracks.

Real drivers are saying the same thing. One owner on r/Rivian described the M/S2 as “like driving on a cloud compared to the bumpy Pirellis.” Another on r/F150 said it “rides solid and stays quiet even when loaded.” A few SUV owners mentioned it feels “a touch firmer” than the old one, which fits with the test results — more control, same comfort.

So if you liked how the old Defender rode, you’ll feel right at home here. The M/S2 trades a little softness for a lot more stability, and that’s a trade most truck owners will gladly take.

Treadwear and Longevity

If there’s one thing people always expect from a Michelin Defender, it’s long life. And based on both test data and owner feedback, the new M/S2 keeps that promise, this time with a focus on heavier use. According to the results, Michelin clearly aimed for better treadwear under loaded applications compared to the old M/S. The tread compound runs cooler under weight, the casing is reinforced to spread load pressure more evenly, and that is why it handles towing and hauling without eating through the shoulders like softer highway tires often do.

That approach also explains the mixed feedback online. A user on BobIsTheOilGuy said his Defenders “easily hit 80–100K miles” and still held wet traction better than most new tires. On the other hand, a Rivian owner reported faster front wear around 7,000 miles, which makes sense since EV torque is hard on front tires and these are not tuned for that instant load transfer. In short, the M/S2 is built for traditional gas or diesel trucks carrying consistent weight, not lightweight EV setups or mall crawlers chasing looks and mileage at the same time.

That is also where size and load selection become critical. If you pick the right construction for your truck’s weight and stick to a regular rotation schedule, this tire will go the distance. Push it into setups it was not designed for, like oversized fitments or lightweight half-tons, and you will lose that even wear advantage.

As a former Bridgestone test engineer, I can tell you Michelin knows exactly what they are doing here. They are not trying to make one universal Defender anymore. The M/S2 is their long-life workhorse for trucks that tow, haul, and stay loaded most of the time, while the Defender LTX Platinum is tuned for electric vehicles and torque-heavy daily drivers. That is Michelin’s real strength — they segment perfectly.

So, the Defender LTX M/S2 still carries that Michelin reputation for longevity, but it shines most when used as intended. Keep rotations consistent, stick to proper load specs, and it will outlast almost anything in its class.

Conclusion

Highway Terrain Tire Comparison – Dry, Wet, Snow, and Comfort Metrics

Tire	Dry Cornering (g)	Dry Overall	Dry Braking (ft)	Wet Lap (sec)	Wet Slalom (sec)	Wet Overall	Wet Braking (ft)	Snow Lap (sec)	Snow Accel (ft)	Snow Brake (ft)	Ice Brake (ft)	Ride Comfort	Noise	Steering	Overall Comfort
Continental TerrainContact H/T	0.76	6.50	130	36.02	7.42	7.06	97	70.18	79	77	95	8.75	8.50	8.25	8.50
Kumho Crugen HT51	0.75	6.44	138	36.68	7.65	6.38	109	71.82	85	84	108	7.75	7.50	7.50	7.50
Michelin Defender LTX M/S2	0.75	6.19	140	36.25	7.46	6.94	100	71.35	84	82	105	8.50	8.25	8.00	8.25
Bridgestone Dueler LX	0.74	6.31	135	36.23	7.49	7.00	99	70.91	82	80	102	8.25	8.25	8.00	8.00
Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse HT	0.74	5.81	133	36.52	7.56	6.63	105	71.40	84	83	107	7.00	7.00	7.00	7.00
Firestone Destination LE3	0.73	5.94	134	36.27	7.53	6.75	103	70.62	81	78	97	8.00	8.00	7.75	7.75
General Grabber H/T	0.73	5.81	130	36.80	7.69	6.19	112	71.93	85	84	109	7.25	7.25	7.00	7.00
Goodyear Wrangler Steadfast HT	0.73	5.50	131	36.71	7.64	6.31	110	70.74	82	80	100	8.00	7.75	7.75	7.75
Vredestein Pinza HT	0.73	6.00	138	36.57	7.58	6.50	108	71.13	83	81	104	7.50	7.50	7.25	7.25

After spending time comparing the data, feedback, and design updates, I think the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 is exactly what it needed to be — a refined version of one of the most proven highway tires ever made. It doesn’t chase flashy numbers or extreme traction; instead, it doubles down on what made the original so good.

The updates in steering response, stability, and wet control make it feel more planted and modern, especially for trucks that tow or haul regularly. The dry braking might not lead the charts, but that is clearly by design. Michelin built this tire to perform at its best under real load, not on an empty test track.

What really stands out is how balanced it feels. The M/S2 is quiet, steady, and forgiving on the road, yet still strong enough to handle serious work. Real owners are proving that it wears slow and stays smooth even after tens of thousands of miles, as long as rotations and alignments are done right.

If you drive a truck or SUV that works hard during the week and cruises quietly on the weekend, the Defender LTX M/S2 is a tire that fits that lifestyle perfectly. It’s not trying to impress in one category — it’s built to perform consistently in all of them, year after year.

FAQ – Michelin Defender LTX M/S2

What’s different between the Michelin Defender LTX M/S and the new M/S2?

The M/S2 brings a stronger internal structure, updated tread pattern, and improved wet handling. Steering is sharper, comfort is slightly firmer, and treadwear performance is optimized for loaded trucks and SUVs. The goal was better control and longer life under real weight without sacrificing Michelin’s signature comfort.

Is the Defender LTX M/S2 good for towing and hauling?

Yes. The M/S2 is built for loaded applications, not just light daily driving. The casing spreads load evenly across the tread and runs cooler under pressure, helping it stay stable when towing campers, boats, or trailers.

How does it perform in rain and snow?

In testing, the M/S2 stopped from 50 mph in 100 feet on wet pavement, ranking near the top of its class. It is strong in rain and slush, but since it does not carry the 3PMSF badge, it’s best for moderate winter conditions or plowed roads rather than deep snow.

How quiet and comfortable is the M/S2 compared to the old version?

Michelin tuned the new tire to feel more connected to the road without getting rough. It scored 8.50 for ride comfort and 8.25 for noise, ranking just behind Continental’s TerrainContact H/T. Drivers describe it as “smooth, calm, and balanced,” even at highway speeds.

How long does the Defender LTX M/S2 last?

Michelin backs the M/S2 with a 70,000-mile warranty for most sizes, and real users report anywhere from 70K to over 90K miles when properly rotated. It’s built to last under load, though aggressive EV torque or oversized setups may wear it faster.

Michelin LTX AT2 Review

Updated: November 11, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

As a former Bridgestone field inspector, I’ve seen my fair share of all-terrain tires promising both off-road prowess and highway comfort. Yet, the Michelin LTX AT2 consistently stood out. But does it truly bridge the gap between road and rugged, or is it all smoke and tread? Let’s test-drive its performance across key metrics.

Michelin LTX AT2 shines on dry pavement with agile handling and impressive grip, while holding its own in wet conditions with its wide grooves efficiently channeling water. Don’t underestimate Michelin LTX AT2’s winter capabilities either, as it provides surprising traction on snowy roads. Mileage is exceptional thanks to the deep tread, and you won’t sacrifice fuel efficiency with its optimized design. Off-road, the aggressive tread eats up dirt trails and campsites with ease, although it’s best to leave extreme adventures for others. While a slight hum accompanies the aggressive tread, the ride remains surprisingly comfortable, absorbing bumps and imperfections with ease.

Tread Design

The LTX AT2’s imposing tread is more than just an aesthetic statement. Deep, aggressive blocks and wide grooves provide exceptional bite on loose surfaces like sand, gravel, and mud. This design excels in off-road scenarios, but its well-balanced layout doesn’t sacrifice on-road performance. Angled sipes further enhance wet traction by efficiently channeling water away from the contact patch, while the overall design optimizes wear for increased longevity.

Tread & Durability

True to Michelin’s reputation, the LTX AT2 lives up to expectations when it comes to durability. Its sturdy build and deep tread design ensure a longer lifespan, providing drivers with more miles before needing to replace their tires. This durability makes it a cost-effective choice for those who enjoy off-road adventures or require a reliable tire for demanding driving conditions.

Sizes

The LTX AT2 offers a broad range of sizes to accommodate various vehicles, including pickup trucks, SUVs, and crossovers. This extensive size selection ensures that drivers can find the perfect fit for their specific vehicle, regardless of its type. The versatility of this tire makes it a suitable choice for a wide range of driving styles and vehicle types, catering to the diverse needs of drivers.

On-Road Performance

Dry Performance

The LTX AT2 is not only capable off-road but also impresses with its agile handling and remarkable grip on dry asphalt. It exhibits confident cornering abilities with minimal body roll, even at higher speeds. This well-balanced design ensures a composed and predictable driving experience, making it a versatile tire that excels both on and off the road.

Wet Performance

When it comes to wet performance, the LTX AT2 holds its own. Its wide grooves effectively channel water, ensuring a secure grip during heavy rain. While it may not outperform dedicated wet-weather tires, it instills confidence in most rainy conditions, providing drivers with a surefooted experience.

Riding Comfort & Mileage

Despite its aggressive tread, the LTX AT2 delivers a surprisingly comfortable ride. The sidewalls flex effectively to absorb bumps and road imperfections, making for a smooth and cushioned experience. And thanks to its long-lasting tread, you can expect several thousand miles before replacement, even with a mix of on- and off-road driving.

Snow Performance

Despite its all-terrain label, the LTX AT2 performs admirably in winter conditions. Its aggressive tread design effectively channels snow and slush, delivering surprisingly strong traction on snowy roads. While it’s not a dedicated snow tire, it offers peace of mind during frosty commutes and light winter adventures.

Fuel Efficiency

Despite its emphasis on performance and durability, the LTX AT2 manages to excel in the fuel efficiency department. Its thoughtfully designed tread pattern and advanced construction materials work together to reduce rolling resistance, allowing you to maximize your miles per gallon. This makes it an appealing option for drivers who value both capability and fuel economy.

Road Noise

The LTX AT2’s aggressive tread pattern does come with a minor trade-off in the form of road noise. When driving at higher speeds, you may notice some tire hum, but it’s not loud enough to disrupt conversations or music. In the grand scheme of things, the noise level remains manageable, especially when you consider the tire’s impressive on- and off-road performance.

Off-Road Prowess

The LTX AT2 truly shines when you leave the pavement behind. Its aggressive tread pattern provides excellent traction on loose terrain, allowing you to tackle dirt trails, campsites, and light off-road excursions with confidence. While it’s not designed for extreme rock crawling or challenging off-road conditions, it handles moderate off-road adventures exceptionally well. This versatility makes it a reliable companion for those who enjoy exploring off the beaten path.

Conclusion

The Michelin LTX AT2 truly excels in both on-road and off-road environments. It offers remarkable off-road traction, unexpected on-road handling prowess, and respectable winter performance, all while maintaining a comfortable and surprisingly fuel-efficient profile. While it may not be the absolute quietest or the most aggressive off-roader on the market, its overall balance and the legendary Michelin quality make it an enticing choice. Whether you’re a seasoned off-road enthusiast or someone who enjoys occasional adventures, the LTX AT2 is a tire that demands serious consideration. It’s more than just an all-terrain tire; it’s an open invitation to bridge the gap between the paved roads and the wilderness, providing both comfort and capability for your journeys.

Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 Review

Updated: July 31, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is an ultra-high-performance tire that is developed for people who love driving aggressively. It can be used on performance-driven SUVs, CUVs, coupes, and sedans. Since the first time, Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 was released in July 2021, it’s been the most preferred performance tire in the market. I’ve spent some time with these tires. I can confidently say that it’s an authentic performer. Though, compared to grand touring tires like Michelin Primacy A/S it has some disadvantages also. In this article, I’m going to expose Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 and try to explain which conditions are best for this tire. Let’s begin!

At a Glance

	Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
Best for	Performance-driven longevity, Mostly warm regions for below 3,500 lbs vehicles, 3 seasons + light snow traction for over 3,500 vehicles, Responsiveness
Pros	Smooth & quiet ride, Insane responsiveness, Fuel efficiency (compared to other UHP tires), Long-lasting rubber
Cons	If you’re changing from an all-season tire, you may experience a bit noisier ride Winter performance is highly limited as expected from UHP tires
Vehicle	Sport sedans, Sport coupes, SUV, CUV
Test Report	Read the full test report (September 21, 2021)
Available Sizes	15”, 16”, 17”, 18”, 20”, 22”
Made In	United States, Mexico
Warranty	45,000 miles

As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my standpoint Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is a longevity-driven ultra high-performance tire. Even though it can handle wet and dry conditions very well, when it comes to cold weather with powder snow, its traction is limited. Though, its responsiveness and cornering stability are insane. Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 provides a quiet and smooth riding experience. Yet, if you’re changing from the all-season tires, you may feel a bit rough ride for a while.

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.tirerack.com/upgrade-garage/why-do-tire-tread-patterns-make-noise
Fuel-Efficiency:
https://www.tirerack.com/landing/fuel_efficiency
Traction/Stability control for AWD/4WD (All-Season tires specific)
https://www.tirerack.com/upgrade-garage/traction-stability-4ws-awd

Below the table, you can find my favorite tires that I have classified according to your needs.

All-Season Tires Cheat Sheet
Name	Best for	Works Best on	Articles	3PMSF	Road Noise	Mileage	Responsiveness	Riding Comfort	Warranty	Fuel Economy	Wet Performance	Mild Winter	Severe Winter
Michelin Crossclimate 2 ( Check Price – Test Report )	Year Round Usage & Tread Life	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, minivans	Review	Yes	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	Decent	60,000	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	Decent
Michelin Primacy Tour A/S ( Check Price – Test Report )	Everything but severe winter traction	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs	Review	No	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	45,000 – 55,000	Decent	Elegant	Average	Fairy Well
Bridgestone WeatherPeak ( Check Price – Test Report )	Smooth & quiet 4 season driving	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, minivans	Review	Yes	Elegant	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	70,000	Elegant	Decent	Elegant	Average
Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus ( Check Price – Test Report )	Great all-round run-flat tire	SUV, CUV, Sedans, Coupes	Review	No	Average	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent	65,000	Average	Excellent	Decent	Average
Vredestein Quatrac Pro ( Check Price – Test Report )	4-Season performance-driven riding	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs	Review	Yes	Elegant	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	50,000	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	Average
Vredestein HiTrac All-Season ( Check Price –Test Report )	Year round performance with great handling	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs		No	Decent	Decent	Elegant	Decent	70,000	Decent	Elegant	Decent	Average
Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 ( Check Price – Test Report )	Great all-round performance + mild winter	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs	Review	No	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	70,000	Elegant	Decent	Decent	Average
Nokian WRG4 ( Check Price )	Traction focused 4 season driving	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, minivans	Review	Yes	Decent	Decent	Decent	Elegant	65,000	Average	Elegant	Elegant	Decent
Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady ( Check Price –Test Report )	Year-round traction + handling	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, minivans	–	Yes	Average	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	60,000	Average	Elegant	Elegant	Average
Firestone WeatherGrip ( Check Price –Test Report )	Winter-focused 4 season driving	Sedans, coupes, crossovers	Review	Yes	Average	Fairy Well	Average	Decent	65,00	Fairy Well	Average	Elegant	Elegant
BF Goodrich Advantage Control ( Check Price –Test Report )	Quiet & smooth 3 season traction + light snow	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs	Review	No	Decent	Decent	Elegant	Decent	65,000 – 75,000	Elegant	Decent	Average	Poor
Kumho Crugen HP71 ( Check Price – Test Report )	Decent all-round performance + light snow	CUV, SUV	Review	No	Average	Average	Decent	Decent	65,000	Decent	Decent	Decent	Fairy Well
Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra (Check Price – Test Report )	Long lasting performance for squishy regions	Crossovers, SUVs, light trucks	Review	No	Decent	Decent	Decent	Decent	70,000	Decent	Elegant	Decent	Fairy Well
Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring AS (Check Price)	Affordable 3 season traction	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs	Review	No	Average	Average	Decent	Decent	70,000	Decent	Average	Fairy Well	Poor
Goodyear Assurance All-Season ( Check Price – Test Report )	Affordable all-round 3 season + light snow performance	Sedans, minivans	Review	No	Decent	Decent	Decent	Decent	65,000	Decent	Decent	Average	Fairy Well
Goodyear Assurance MaxLife ( Check Price – Test Report )	Longevitiy focused 3 season traction + light snow	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, minivans	Review	No	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	85,000	Elegant	Decent	Average	Poor
Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack ( Check Price – Test Report )	Comfort-focused 3 season traction + light snow	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, minivans	Review	No	Elegant	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	80,000	Elegant	Elegant	Decent	Fairy Well
Goodyear Assurance ComfortDrive (Check Price – Test Report )	Above average all-round performance	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs	Review	No	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	60,000	Average	Elegant	Decent	Average
Michelin Defender T+H (Check Price – Test Report )	Efficiency focused 3 season performance	Sedans, coupes, crossovers	vs Crossclimate 2	No	Decent	Decent	Decent	Decent	80,000	Elegant	Decent	Fairy Well	Poor
BF Goodrich Advantage T/A Sport ( Check Price – Test Report )	Long lasting 4 season performance + handling	Sedans, coupes, crossovers	–	No	Average	Decent	Decent	Decent	60,000 – 70,000	Average	Decent	Decent	Fairy Well
Continental TrueContact Tour ( Check Price – Test Report )	Smooth & long-lasting 3 season performance + light snow	Sedans, coupes, crossovers	–	No	Decent	Decent	Decent	Decent	70,000 – 80,000	Decent	Elegant	Average	Fairy Well
Yokohama Avid Ascend LX ( Check Price – Test Report )	Long-lasting & responsive 4 season performance	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, minivans		No	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	85,000	Elegant	Decent	Decent	Fairy Well
Laufenn S Fit AS (Check Price)	Long-lasting sporty driving	SUV, CUV, Sedans, Coupes	Review	No	Decent	Decent	Excellent	Decent	45,000	Decent	Decent	Average	Poor

Depending on your needs, the below article might help;

Dry Traction

Dry traction is all about the rubber amount you put on the ground. In fact, that’s the reason most performance tires have an asymmetrical pattern.

In that case, the real idea is to put more rubber on the outer shoulder.

Putting more rubber on the shoulder section enables two things,

Since this method decrease the void area in the center section, it decreases the noise level
Since you have robust shoulders, it improves the handling capability

Just like all other all-season tires, Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 provides excellent dry traction. The real game changer out here is the next two sections. Cornering stability and responsiveness.

Responsiveness

The handling capability is the litmus for good ultra-high-performance tires.

Due to their soft compounds, these tires provide decent traction anyway. Yet, these tires are running at high speed. Hence, while cornering, the lateral forces become huge and that generally decreases the handling capability. That might not happen if you’re a careful driver.

But, hey, if you’re a careful driver, why are you buying performance tires? Don’t buy them and check this article out instead (Michelin Primacy Tour A/S Review).

For the ones who are still here, let’s move on.

Ultra-high-performance tires must be agile to provide quick steering response. So, this responsiveness is related to two dimensions. The tread, especially the center section, and the internal structure, especially the weight.

So, here is the deal, Even though Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 has an asymmetrical pattern, its center rib is way much flat than the competitors. The continuous center rib is the key to quick steering response.

Michelin is able to make a flat center rib because of the tread width of this tire. The tread of the Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 is wider than the competitors. Hence, it doesn’t need to notch the center rib that much for better traction.

While doing this, Michelin achieves the keep tread depth at 10/32”, and even though it’s only available in ZR sizes, it still weighs the same as the competitors.

Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 is a great option if responsiveness is the most important feature for you.

Cornering Stability

The Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is a high-performance all-season tire that is designed to deliver excellent cornering stability. It features an asymmetric tread pattern that is optimized for both dry and wet conditions, as well as Michelin’s Dynamic Response Technology, which helps to provide crisp handling and precise steering response.

The tire’s tread design includes large, rigid tread blocks on the outside shoulder of the tire to provide maximum contact with the road during cornering. This helps to improve the tire’s cornering stability and grip, especially during high-speed maneuvers. The tire’s tread also features deep, wide grooves to evacuate water and improve wet traction.

Additionally, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 uses a special tread compound that is designed to remain pliable in a wide range of temperatures. This helps to improve the tire’s grip and handling in both hot and cold weather, making it a great option for drivers who experience a wide range of weather conditions.

Overall, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is a high-performance tire that delivers excellent cornering stability and grip in both dry and wet conditions.

Wet Performance

The Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is designed to provide excellent wet performance, thanks to its advanced tread design and specialized rubber compound.

The tire’s tread pattern features wide, deep grooves that are designed to evacuate water quickly and efficiently, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and improving wet traction. The tire also features a high-silica content tread compound that is optimized for wet conditions. The silica helps the tire maintain flexibility in cold, wet conditions, while also improving grip on wet roads.

In independent testing, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 has demonstrated excellent wet performance. For example, in testing conducted by Tire Rack, the tire received the highest wet traction rating among all tested tires in its category. Reviewers praised the tire’s ability to provide confident handling and grip in both light and heavy rain, as well as its resistance to hydroplaning.

Overall, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize wet performance, as it is designed to deliver confident handling and grip in a variety of wet weather conditions.

Winter Performance

While the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is designed to provide good performance in a range of weather conditions, it is not specifically designed for winter use. However, Michelin has incorporated some winter-specific features into the tire’s design to help improve its performance in colder temperatures and light snow.

The tire features a specialized compound that includes sunflower oil and special resins to help the tire remain pliable in cold temperatures. This helps to improve traction and handling in winter weather, although it is not as effective as a dedicated winter tire.

In independent testing conducted by Tire Rack, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 received mixed results for winter performance. While the tire received good scores for its traction and handling in light snow, its performance in deeper snow and ice was less impressive.

Overall, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is a great tire for drivers who want a high-performance tire that can handle a variety of weather conditions, including light winter weather. However, for drivers who frequently encounter deep snow or ice, a dedicated winter or at least an all-weather tire would be a better choice.

Longevity

The Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is designed to provide a balance of high-performance handling and good tread life, thanks to its advanced tread design and specialized rubber compound.

Michelin uses a unique tread design for the Pilot Sport All Season 4, with large, rigid tread blocks on the outside of the tire and a variable thickness sipe design that helps to distribute forces evenly across the tread surface. This helps to improve the tire’s handling and stability, while also minimizing uneven wear.

The tire’s tread compound is also designed to provide good wear resistance. Michelin uses a high-silica content compound that is optimized for longevity, helping the tire to last longer without compromising its high-performance handling capabilities.

In independent testing conducted by Tire Rack, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 received excellent scores for tread life. Reviewers noted that the tire provided good wear resistance and retained its high-performance handling characteristics even as it wore down.

Overall, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is a great choice for drivers who want a high-performance tire that offers good tread life. While the tire is more expensive than some other options on the market, its balance of performance and longevity makes it a good value for drivers who prioritize both factors. Though worth reminding, ultra-high-performance tires offer last shorter than grand touring tires. For this reason, if longevity is your priority, I do recommend grand touring tires.

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

The Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 comes with a limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 6 years or 45,000 miles, whichever comes first.

The warranty includes free replacement during the first year of service, or the first 2/32 inch of tread wear, whichever comes first. After that, the warranty is prorated based on the remaining tread depth, meaning that the amount of coverage decreases as the tire wears down.

The warranty also includes Michelin’s 30-day satisfaction guarantee, which allows customers to return the tires for a refund or exchange within 30 days of purchase if they are not satisfied with the performance of the tires.

It’s worth noting that the warranty does not cover damage caused by road hazards, such as punctures or impact damage, or damage caused by improper installation or maintenance. Additionally, the warranty is only valid for the original purchaser of the tires and is non-transferable.

Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 Warranty Document:
https://www.tirerack.com/images/pdf/warranty/MI0619.pdf

Comfort & Noise

The Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is designed to deliver a comfortable and quiet ride, thanks to its advanced construction and unique tread design.

The tire features Michelin’s Comfort Control Technology, which uses computer-optimized design and precision manufacturing to reduce road noise and vibrations. This helps to provide a smoother and quieter ride, which can be particularly noticeable on highways or rough roads.

Additionally, the tire’s tread design includes variable thickness sipes and optimized contact patch shapes that help to reduce road noise and improve ride comfort. The tire’s tread blocks are also designed to be rigid and stable, which helps to reduce the amount of flexing and movement that can contribute to noise and discomfort.

In independent testing, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 has received high marks for its comfort and quiet ride. Reviewers have praised the tire’s ability to provide a smooth, comfortable ride even on rough or uneven roads, as well as its low levels of road noise.

Overall, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize a comfortable and quiet ride, as well as high-performance handling and good tread life.

Though worth reminding, due to its strong sidewalls, Michelin Pilot All-Season 4 provides a rougher ride than grand touring tires.

Sizes

16” Wheels	17” Wheels	18” Wheels	19” Wheels	20” Wheels	21” Wheels	22” Wheels
205/55ZR16 94Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	205/40ZR17 84Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	215/40ZR18 89Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	225/35ZR19 88Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	235/35ZR20 92Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/35ZR21 96Y XL Full Ring Velour	265/35ZR22 102Y XL Full Ring Velour
225/50ZR16 96Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	205/45ZR17 88Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	215/40ZR18 89Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	225/40ZR19 93Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	235/40ZR20 96Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/45ZR21 104Y XL	265/40ZR22 106Y XL Full Ring Velour Eco: Michelin Total Performance
	205/50ZR17 93Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	215/45ZR18 93Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	225/45ZR19 96Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	235/45ZR20 100Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/35ZR21 98W XL T0, Acoustic, Full Ring Velour Eco: Michelin Total Performance Noise Reduction Technology Electric Vehicle Tuned	275/35ZR22 104Y XL Full Ring Velour
	215/45ZR17 91Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	225/40ZR18 92Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	225/55ZR19 103Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/30ZR20 90Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/40ZR21 102Y XL Full Ring Velour	HL275/35R22 107V HL MO1 Mercedes, Acoustic Tech Eco: Michelin Total Performance Noise Reduction Technology Electric Vehicle Tuned
	215/50ZR17 95Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	225/45ZR18 95Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	235/35ZR19 91Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/35ZR20 95Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	265/35ZR21 101Y XL Full Ring Velour	275/40ZR22 108Y XL Full Ring Velour Eco: Michelin Total Performance
	215/55ZR17 98Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	225/50ZR18 99Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	235/40ZR19 96Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/40ZR20 99Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	265/40ZR21 105Y XL Full Ring Velour	285/35ZR22 106Y XL Full Ring Velour Eco: Michelin Total Performance
	225/45ZR17 94Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	235/40ZR18 95Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	235/45ZR19 99Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/45ZR20 103Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	265/40R21 101V SL NE0 Porsche Eco: Michelin Total Performance	285/40ZR22 110Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance
	225/50ZR17 98Y XL 26.3″ Overall Diameter Eco: Michelin Total Performance	235/45ZR18 98Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/35ZR19 93Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/35ZR20 97Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	275/35R21 103V XL MO1 Mercedes	295/40ZR22 112Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance
	225/55ZR17 101Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	235/50ZR18 101Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/40ZR19 98Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/40ZR20 101Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	275/35ZR21 103W XL T0, Acoustic, Full Ring Velour Eco: Michelin Total Performance Noise Reduction Technology Electric Vehicle Tuned
	235/45ZR17 97Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	235/55ZR18 104Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/45ZR19 102Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/45ZR20 105Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	275/40ZR21 107Y XL
	235/50ZR17 100Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/35ZR18 92Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/50ZR19 105Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/55ZR20 110Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	275/45ZR21 110Y XL Full Ring Velour
	235/55ZR17 103Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/40ZR18 97Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/30ZR19 91Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	265/30ZR20 94Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	285/40ZR21 109Y XL Full Ring Velour
	245/40ZR17 95Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/45ZR18 100Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/35ZR19 96Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	265/35ZR20 99Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	295/35R21 103V SL NE0 Porsche Eco: Michelin Total Performance
	245/45ZR17 99Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	245/50ZR18 104Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/40ZR19 100Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	265/40ZR20 104Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	295/35ZR21 107Y XL Full Ring Velour Eco: Michelin Total Performance
	245/50ZR17 103Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/35ZR18 94Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/45ZR19 104Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	265/45ZR20 108Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	295/40ZR21 111Y XL Full Ring Velour Eco: Michelin Total Performance
	255/40ZR17 98Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/40ZR18 99Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	265/35ZR19 98Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	275/30ZR20 97Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	315/30R21 105V XL MO1 Mercedes
	255/45ZR17 102Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	255/45ZR18 103Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	265/40ZR19 102Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	275/35ZR20 102Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance
	275/40ZR17 98Y SL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	265/35ZR18 97Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	265/50ZR19 110Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	275/40ZR20 106Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance
	315/35ZR17 106Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	265/40ZR18 101Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	275/35ZR19 100Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	285/30ZR20 99Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance
		265/45ZR18 104Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	275/40ZR19 105Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	285/35ZR20 104Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance
		275/35ZR18 99Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	285/30ZR19 98Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	285/45ZR20 112Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance
		275/40ZR18 103Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	285/35ZR19 103Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	295/30ZR20 101Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance
		285/35ZR18 101Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	285/40ZR19 107Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	295/35ZR20 105Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance
			295/45ZR20 114Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance	305/35ZR20 107Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance
				315/35ZR20 110Y XL Eco: Michelin Total Performance

If you’d like to reach detailed specifications by size:

https://www.tirerack.com/tires/Spec.jsp?tireMake=Michelin&tireModel=Pilot+Sport+All+Season+4&isSEO=true

Conclusion

In my point of view, Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is a great tire if you’d like to combine sporty driving feeling with longevity. Since this tire is a bit stiffer than its competitors, it’s a great option for relatively heavier sedans (or sports cars) like Lamborghini, Dodge, Tesla, Mercedes, BMW, or even the SUV and CUVs. It’s not the best performance tire but if you’re looking for something all-round, it’s a great option. Though worth reminding, its winter performance is behind the competition. It’s okay on bare pavement but when it comes to centerline bare pavement, it starts to slide.

	Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
Best for	Performance-driven longevity, Mostly warm regions for below 3,500 lbs vehicles, 3 seasons + light snow traction for over 3,500 vehicles, Responsiveness
Pros	Smooth & quiet ride, Insane responsiveness, Fuel efficiency (compared to other UHP tires), Long-lasting rubber
Cons	If you’re changing from an all-season tire, you may experience a bit noisier ride Winter performance is highly limited as expected from UHP tires
Vehicle	Sport sedans, Sport coupes, SUV, CUV
Test Report	Read the full test report (September 21, 2021)
Available Sizes	15”, 16”, 17”, 18”, 20”, 22”
Made In	United States, Mexico
Warranty	45,000 miles

I hope the article was helpful, if you need any further support about tire selection, feel free to leave a comment below or contact me via email. Have a safe ride folks!

Best Michelin Tires for SUV

Updated: July 31, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan Leave a Comment

SUVs are huge and powerful vehicles. Hence, they need a tire that can provide durability and reliability at the same time. When I consider these two requirements and link them up with exceedingly comfy driving, the first brand that comes to my mind is Michelin. Today, as a former Bridgestone engineer, I’m going to expose the Best Michelin Tires for SUVs. Let’s begin!

Michelin Crossclimate 2 – Great 4 Season Traction + Longevity – Best All Weather Tire
Michelin Defender 2 – Longevity + Responsiveness – Best Affordable All-Season Tire
Michelin Defender LTX M/S – Durability + Longevity + Mild Off-Road Traction – Best Tire for Hauling & Towing
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV – Wet & Dry Performance + Handling – Best Summer Touring Tire
Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 – Longevity + Handling + Mild Winter Traction – Best Performance All-Season Tire
Michelin X-Ice Snow – Ice Traction + Comfort – Best Winter Tire
Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 – Snow Traction + Handling + Responsiveness – Best Performance Winter Tire
Michelin LTX A/T2 – Longevity + Comfort – Best All-Terrain Tire
BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 – All Round tire that is also part of Michelin brand – Best Severe Off-Road Tire

How to Classify Michelin Tires?

The tire industry has branched out a lot lately. At the beginning of the 2000s, there were five main categories. All-season tires, summer tires, winter tires, all-terrain tires, and performance tires.

Lately, these categories began to divide within themselves. Here are some of them you must need to know before reading this article.

All-Season Tires:

All-Weather Tires: 4 seasons of performance, traction, longevity, durability, and comfort (less than grand touring tires but more than others)
Grand Touring All-Season Tires: 3-season performance + light snow traction, durability, longevity, comfort
Touring All-Season Tires: 3-season performance + light snow traction ( not as much as Grand Touring), durability, comfort (3rd place)
Passenger All-Season Tires: 3-season performance + light snow traction ( not as much as Touring tires), durability, comfort (3rd place)
Highway All-Season Tires: Longevity and handling focus tires, relatively lower snow and wet performance, stiff driving

Summer Tires:

Grand Touring Summer: Dry weather tires can provide unique handling, responsiveness, wet performance
Highway Rib Summer: Heavy-duty capability, noise reduction, tread life (only recommend for commercial usage)

Performance Tires:

Max Performance Summer: Performance-focused low-profile tires, I don’t recommend them on SUVs.
Ultra-High Performance Summer: Performance-focused low-profile tires, last short
Ultra-High Performance All-Season: The only performance tires that can be used on SUVs. Relatively shorter tread life than premium all-season tires.

Winter Tires:

Studless Ice/Snow Tires: Your regular winter tires, dedicated winter tires, don’t perform in summer, and last longer than performance winter tires
Performance Winter/Snow Tires: For performance-tuned SUVs, don’t perform in the summer, last shorter but provide better traction and handling and stopping distance

All-Terrain Tires:

On/Off Road All-Terrain: Better for off-road lovers, decrease comfort and handling

Note: The remaining all-terrain tire categories aren’t usable for SUVs.

From now on, I’m going to share my favorite Michelin tires for each category.

All-season tires are the most popular tire category. Most of you will leave the article after reading this section.

Best All-Weather Tire – Michelin Crossclimate 2 – Michelin Crossclimate 2 SUV (If you can’t find your size on Crossclimate 2
Best Grand-Touring All-Season Tire – Michelin Primacy Tour A/S
Best Touring All-Season Tire – Michelin Defender 2
Best Passenger All-Season Tire – Michelin Primacy A/S
Best Highway All-Season Tire – Michelin Defender LTX M/S

Michelin Crossclimate 2 - Year Round Traction + Long Lasting Rubber

Michelin Crossclimate 2 is the hero tire of the Michelin line-up. The dude rocks the market since it has been released. So, the idea behind the Crossclimate tires is simple. Use winter compound but put as much rubber on the road for a decent dry performance. In order to do that, reducing the sipe intensity is a must because it costs more wear. Hence, you may think that this tire lacks sipes. The grooves and tread do the job instead of sipes and cuts.

As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my standpoint, Michelin Crossclimate 2 provides unique traction on wet and dry surfaces. Furthermore, its 3PMSF-labeled compound provides trustworthy winter performance. Well, it can even handle the icy grounds. Even better, Michelin Crossclimate 2 offers long-lasting rubber with a highly smooth riding experience. However, it’s still one step ahead of perfection. Even though these are its above-average features, due to its aggressive pattern, it makes shadowy noise and a 10% increase in MPG (it’s even 8,5 out of 10 on its weak features).

	Michelin Crossclimate 2
Best for	The all-round tire that can perform perfectly in all 4 seasons, severe winter traction
Pros	Insane wet and snow traction, long-lasting rubber, cool design
Cons	Slightly noisy
Test Report	vs WeatherPeak & PureContact LS (May 31, 2022)
Category	Grand Touring All-Weather
Vehicle	Passenger Car/Minivan/SUV
Weight	21 – 32 lbs
Made In	United States
Warranty (P-metric)	60,000 Miles
Available Sizes (Rim)	16”, 17”, 18”, 19”, 20”
Labels	3PMSF

Michelin offers 6 years and 60,000 miles mileage warranty for this product
Detailed research is available:
https://tireterrain.com/michelin-crossclimate-2-review/

Michelin Crossclimate 2 SUV - Sport Utility or Larger SUVs

Michelin Crossclimate 2 is great. Yet, it doesn’t fit some sport utility SUVs that need higher load and speed index at the same time. Hence, Michelin has a reinforced SUV version of this tire for a couple of sizes. The range is broader than Crossclimate 2 ( 17” to 20” diameter).

Michelin Crossclimate 2 SUV is great as its younger brother Michelin Crossclimate 2. No matter how cold or hot, Michelin Crossclimate 2 SUV provides great traction. Moreover, the dude has a long life like a tortoise. As a return, it’s slightly noisier than your regular all-season tire.

I don’t recommend the SUV version unless you need a higher load or speed index
Crossclimate tires are developed for severe winter conditions. Hence, I don’t recommend using it if you don’t see snow often
Michelin offers 6 years and 60,000 miles mileage warranty for this product
Michelin Crossclimate 2 SUV is a newly released tire. Hence you may face supply issues. If you’ll experience any, I do recommend Michelin Crossclimate SUV instead.

Michelin Primacy Tour A/S - 3 Season Traction + Fuel Efficiency

Michelin Primacy Tour A/S is a grand touring all-season tire. This tire is a good fit for sedans, crossovers, coupes, and SUV owners who are highly obsessed with comfort. Even though it can’t provide year-round traction like its brother Michelin Crossclimate 2, though, its only deficiency is severe snow performance.

As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my standpoint, Michelin Primacy Tour A/S is a trustworthy all-round tire. It has a highly satisfying dry and wet performance. Moreover, it’s a perfect choice for aggressive drivers even on squishy days. Due to its lightweight, it’s a fuel-efficient tire. Most importantly, Michelin Primacy Tour A/S is one of the coziest and quietest tires in its segment. However, its winter performance is limited to light snow. Furthermore, its tread lasts slightly shorter than its competitors.

	Michelin Primacy Tour A/S
Best for	3 season driving (light-snow included), cozy and quiet highway driving, longevity
Test Report	vs Turanza QuietTract & PureContact LS & Quatrac Pro (July 12, 2019)
Category	Grand Touring All-Season
Vehicle	Crossover, sedans, coupes and SUVs
Weight	25 – 37 lbs
Made In	USA
Warranty	55,000 Miles (H- & V-Speed Rated) 45,000 Miles (W-Speed Rated)
Available Sizes (Rim)	17”, 18”, 19”, 20”, 21”, 22”
Labels	M+S

If your city provides decent snow plowing or you see snow a couple of days a year, I recommend Primacy Tour A/S instead of Crossclimate 2
Michelin offers 6 Years / 55,000 Miles (H- & V-Speed Rated) 6 Years / 45,000 Miles (W-Speed Rated) mileage warranty for this product
Detailed research is available:
https://tireterrain.com/michelin-primacy-tour-a-s-review/

Michelin Defender 2 - Longevity + Responsiveness

Michelin Defender 2 is the latest product of Michelin’s standard touring tire line-up. Unlike its brother Defender T+H, this dude can be used on SUVs also. So, the main goals of standard touring all-season tires are lasting longer and being responsive. However, providing these two features decrease some other features that are related to performance.

Michelin Defender 2 is a reliable and affordable all-season tire that provides massive mileage and quick steering response. However, unlike the above tires, Michelin Defender 2’s winter and wet performances are 1 or 2 points below. This doesn’t mean it can’t be used in wet and snowy conditions. Though, you better take it easy in these conditions. On the other hand, Michelin Defender 2’s comfort and noise level are far better above than its competitors in the market.

If you have a space to store tires, you can combine this dude with a dedicated winter tire
Your stopping distance on wet and snow can slightly decrease
This is an affordable option that is a great opportunity for those who spend most of their time in a warm weather
Michelin offers 6 years and 80,000 miles mileage warranty for this product.

Michelin Primacy A/S - Budget Tire

Michelin Primacy A/S is a budget-friendly tire that is specified for SUVs. Well, it’s not lasting as well as other premium segment Michelin tires. However, it provides close-rated traction to its elder brothers. I can define it as a performance-oriented tire that offers limited tread life.

Michelin Primacy A/S is an affordable tire that offers great comfort and handling at the same time. Besides that, it’s an average tire. It offers satisfying tread life for its category. Yet, its winter performance is highly limited with light snow. On the other hand, Michelin Primacy A/S is quiet as a church mouse.

This tire is a great option if you’re not a daily driver
I don’t recommend using this tire on icy or above 2-3 inch snow-covered surfaces
Michelin offers 6 years and 55,000 miles mileage warranty for this product

Michelin Defender LTX M/S - Longevity + Durability + Mild Off Road Traction

Michelin Defender LTX M/S is an all-season tire that has a wide product range. This tire can be used on SUVs, commercial vans, sport utility vehicles, and any light truck. Due to its longevity and durability, it can be ever used on heavy-duty 3/4 ton or above pickups. Even though it’s an all-season tire, due to its high durability, it can even handle some off-road. Yet, knowing its limit is highly vital to get maximum performance from it. I pushed the limits a bit. Let’s dig into it and see what it’s capable of.

As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my standpoint, Michelin Defender LTX M/S has unique traction on wet and dry surfaces. Moreover, its light snow capability is highly acceptable and it can handle icy surfaces as well. The long-lasting tread is its main feature. Furthermore, surprisingly, it can handle mild off-road very well. However, Michelin Defender LTX M/S has a bit stiff ride and makes some noise after half of its tread is worn. Though worth reminding, its loose ground performance is limited to a couple of inches.

	Michelin Defender LTX M/S
Best for	Longevity, cozy and quiet ride, heavy-duty light trucks, mostly highway-oriented commercial usage, mild off-road-like dirt & gravel
Category	Highway All-Season
Vehicle	SUV/Light Truck
Weight	24 – 58 lbs
Made In	United States
Warranty (P-metric)	70,000 Miles (50,000 for R-speed rate)
Available Sizes (Rim)	15”, 16”, 17”, 18”, 19”, 20”, 22”
Labels	M+S

Stay away from LT sizes unless you don’t have a full-size SUV
This isn’t an off-road tire, it can only handle mild conditions
I don’t recommend this tire for mid-size or compact SUVs
Michelin offers 6 Years / 70,000 Miles (T- & H-Speed Rated) 6 Years / 50,000 Miles (R-Speed Rated) mileage warranty for this product
A detailed review here:
https://tireterrain.com/michelin-defender-ltx-m-s-review/

Best Michelin Summer Tires for SUV

Summer tires are a great option if you’re living in warm regions. Unlike most people think, these tires are great in wet conditions. However, they don’t last as long as all-season tires because of their fluffy compounds.

Best Grand Touring Summer Tire – Michelin Primacy HP
Best Highway Rib Summer Tire – Michelin XPS Rib

I don’t recommend these tires for SUVs. Instead of a dedicated summer tire, Michelin’s performance tires work better in warm conditions. Let’s jump to the next section if you’re looking for a summer tire.

Best Michelin Performance Tires for SUV

Performance tires have a close performance to summer tires. Since both of them don’t need winter traction, they can easily focus on performance. Hence, in this section, I’ll also share the best grand touring summer tire.

Best Max Performance Tire = Best Grand Touring Summer Tire – Michelin Pilot Sport 4
Best Ultra High-Performance Tire – These tires can’t be used on SUVs. Though, Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2 is the best of other vehicle types
Best Performance All-Season Tire – Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4

Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV

Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV is a performance summer tire that can also be used as a grand touring summer tire. Unlike most tires in this category, Pilot Sport 4 SUV lasts as long as a dedicated summer tire. Yet, this feature brings some cons along with it. This tire can be found in the 17” to 23” diameter wheel range.

Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV provides great cornering stability and quick steering response. Besides that, its wet and dry traction capability is highly acceptable. Well, its wet traction is relatively lower than some top-notch tires in this category. Yet, it has one extra groove near the shoulder. Hence, Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV can throw the water out with ease and offers exceptional hydroplaning resistance. Besides that, Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV offers the best mileage of its category.

It’s also a great summer touring tire
If you’re an aggressive driver ZR tires might be better for you
Michelin offers 20,000 miles and 6 years mileage warranty for this product

Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4

Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is a unique performance tire for sporty daily driving. Well, it’s difficult to find SUV tires for this segment. Luckily, due to its wide product range, Pilot Sport All Season 4 can be used on SUVs. Yet, you should be aware that this is a performance tire and it’s not going to last as long as your all-season tire. Yet, this dude is different.

Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is a great tire for those who like driving aggressively. It has reinforced sidewalls. Hence, it stays stable while cornering at high speeds. These strong sidewalls are supported by reinforced shoulder blocks also. For this reason, it’s slightly louder than regular all-season tires. What I like most about this tire is its responsiveness. It offers a meteoric steering response. Besides that, its starting and stopping capabilities are huge. Even though it can easily handle wet and dry surfaces, Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 winter performance is limited with light snow traction.

Michelin offers 45,000 miles mileage warranty for this product
Please be aware that this is a performance all-season tire, if tread life or comfort are your priorities, I recommend going and checking the All-Season Tires section.

Best Michelin Winter Tires for SUV

Winter tires are a must for some of us. Besides that, driving in winter should be reliable as it can. For this reason, most people prefer premium tire brands like Michelin, Bridgestone, or Nokian.

Michelin’s approach to winter tires is a bit different than other manufacturers. For them, winter tires’ wearing performance in warm weather is the game changer. They’re aware that this is the key to longevity.

So, the below tires I’ll share will be long-lasting and compact treads that offer better traction in icy conditions.

Best Winter Tire – Michelin X-Ice Snow
Best Performance Winter Tire – Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4

Note: If you can’t find your sizes, both tires have an SUV version.

Michelin X-Ice Snow - Ice Traction + Comfort

Michelin X-Ice Snow is a studless winter tire. This tire can be used on sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, and minivans. Everybody in the tire industry knows that Michelin Crossclimate 2 is a king of all-weather tires(best ones). Well, X-Ice Snow is developed from Crossclimate 2 tread. Believe my guys, this tread design promises a lot. Let’s dig into it and see what it can bring to you!

As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my standpoint, Michelin X-Ice Snow is an alpha plus tire no matter how severe your winter conditions are. While offering perfect traction on light snow, it also outperforms most winter tires regarding deep snow and ice. Moreover, while working gorgeously on snow, it also offers long-lasting tread and fuel efficiency. Michelin X-Ice Snow is quiet and cozy. However, even though it prevents most of its performance in warm conditions, I don’t recommend using them above 7 Celcius degrees.

	Michelin X-Ice Snow
Best for	Smooth & quiet winter driving, decent tread life
Test Report	vs Blizzak WS90 & VikingContact 7 & WinterCommand Ultra (December 12, 2020)
Category	Studless Ice&Snow Tire
Vehicle	Passenger Car/Minivan/SUV
Made In	USA
Warranty	40,000 Miles
Available Sizes (Rim)	15”, 16”, 17”, 18”, 19”, 20”
Labels	3PMSF

Michelin offers 6 Year / 40,000 Miles mileage warranty for winter usage (September to April)
This product is relatively less durable to heat, hence, its responsiveness and dry traction are relatively lower than performance winter tires
If you need an ICE Traction, you should ignore performance winter tires, so, Michelin X-Ice Snow is your tire
A detailed review here:
https://tireterrain.com/michelin-x-ice-snow-review/

Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4

Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 is a dedicated winter performance tire that offers great traction and responsiveness. Though worth reminding, this is a snow tire. Its ice performance is limited compared to Ice/Snow tires. It’s available in 18” to 21” diameters.

Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 is a responsive and trustworthy winter tire that also offers decent traction on dry surfaces. Even though its ice traction is limited, it rocks in light and deep snow conditions. In return for the dropping on the ice performance, because of its stiffer compound, Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 lasts longer than its competitors. Besides that, it has relatively fewer sipes on the tread. Hence, it makes less noise than most performance winter tires on the market.

Michelin offers 6 Year / 30,000 Miles mileage warranty for this product.
I don’t recommend this tire unless you like driving fast in winter conditions, it’s gonna be surely noisier than dedicated winter tires.

Best Michelin All-Terrain Tires for SUV

Michelin generally carries out the production process of off-road tires through its subsidiary brand BF Goodrich. Still, there are a few off-road tires from the Michelin brand. Only one of them is suitable for SUV use.

Best All-Terrain Tire – Michelin LTX A/T2
Bonus Pick – BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2

Michelin LTX A/T2 - Trail Traction + Comfort

Michelin LTX A/T2 is an all-terrain tire that is mostly used on light trucks. For this reason, it might be hard to find SUV sizes for your vehicle. If you have a full-size SUV, LT sizes are fine. Yet, mid-size and compact SUVs better use P-metric sizes for better comfort and traction.

Michelin LTX A/T2 is a responsive and cozy all-terrain tire. Even so, it’s noisier than all-season or performance tires, it’s quiet and smooth for all-terrain tires. In return for this comfort, you should sacrifice some of your severe off-road traction which most probably you don’t gonna need if you’re not an adventurer. Even though I appreciate Michelin LTX A/T2’s wet and dry performance, its winter performance is limited.

Don’t buy these tires only for appearance
Michelin offers 6 Year / 60,000 Miles mileage warranty for this product
It’s available in 16” to 20” diameters

BF Goodrich KO2 - Bonus All-Terrain Tire Pick

BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is the ancestor of all-terrain tires. First-generation has started in the mid-1970s and the latest one pick its place in 2015. Since then BF Goodrich has been selling 5 million KO2s. Most believe, it is the best all-terrain tire ever. I agree BFG KO2 is a legend. Yet, is it good as it was before? Let’s see!

As a former Bridgestone engineer, I think that BF Goodrich KO2 is a heroic tire for off-road adventure lovers. It has a massive grip and loose-ground traction capability. Moreover, it’s rated with severe snow marking. It’s a great winter tire with a slight defect on icy grounds. It’s not a great wet tire but not under the market necessity. However, BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is a bit vocal and not that quiet due to its strong and stiff sidewalls.

	BF Goodrich KO2
Best for	Smooth ride, great handling, mild & severe off-road especially beach and gravel
Pros	Reliable off-road tire, responsiveness, winter performance
Cons	A stiff ride for LT sizes, can be risky for wet driving after half of its tread life
Test Report	vs Destination AT2 & Geolander AT G015
Vehicle	Light Truck, SUV
Weight	34 – 78 lbs
Made In	Opelika, AL, USA
Warranty (P-metric)	50,000 Miles
Warranty (LT Sizes)	50,000 Miles
Available Sizes (Rim)	15’’, 16’’, 17’’, 18’’, 20’’, 22’’
Labels	3PMSF

A detailed review here:
https://tireterrain.com/bf-goodrich-ko2-review/

Conclusion

I tried to detail the best Michelin tires for SUVs as much as I could. I’m sharing some of my favorites below.

Best All-Season / All-Weather Tire – Michelin Crossclimate 2
Best Summer Tire – Michelin Pilot Sport 4
Best Performance Tire – Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4
Best Winter Tire – Michelin X-Ice Snow

I hope the article was helpful. If you need any further advice or support, please leave a comment. Have a safe ride folks!

Michelin Crossclimate 2 Review

Updated: July 29, 2025 by Emrecan Gurkan 1 Comment

Michelin Crossclimate 2 is a grand touring all-season tire that can perform perfectly in winter conditions. Well, 3PMSF proves its unique feature. I know it has already taken your attention. The good news is Michelin Crossclimate 2 has a wide product range. That means it can be used on sedans, coupes, CUVs, SUVs, and even on huge station wagons that are hungry for smooth and reliable 4-season driving. Does it have a weak point? Well, in this article, I’ll try my best to find one. Let’s move on!

	Michelin Crossclimate 2
Best for	The all-round tire that can perform perfectly in all 4 seasons, severe winter traction
Pros	Insane wet and snow traction, long-lasting rubber, cool design
Cons	Slightly noisy
Test Report	vs WeatherPeak & PureContact LS (May 31, 2022)
Category	Grand Touring All-Weather
Vehicle	Passenger Car/Minivan/SUV
Weight	21 – 32 lbs
Made In	United States
Warranty (P-metric)	60,000 Miles
Available Sizes (Rim)	16”, 17”, 18”, 19”, 20”
Labels	3PMSF

As a former Bridgestone engineer, from my standpoint, Michelin Crossclimate 2 provides unique traction on wet and dry surfaces. Furthermore, its 3PMSF-labeled compound provides trustworthy winter performance. Well, it can even handle the icy grounds. Even better, Michelin Crossclimate 2 offers long-lasting rubber with a cozy riding experience. However, it’s still one step ahead of perfection. Even though these are its above-average features, due to its aggressive pattern, it makes shadowy noise and a 10% increase in MPG (it’s even 8,5 out of 10 on its weak features).

All-Season Tires Cheat Sheet

How to keep tire noise down:
https://www.tirerack.com/upgrade-garage/why-do-tire-tread-patterns-make-noise
Fuel-Efficiency:
https://www.tirerack.com/landing/fuel_efficiency
Traction/Stability control for AWD/4WD (All-Season tires specific)
https://www.tirerack.com/upgrade-garage/traction-stability-4ws-awd

Below the table, you can find my favorite tires that I have classified according to your needs.

All-Season Tires Cheat Sheet
Name	Best for	Works Best on	Articles	3PMSF	Road Noise	Mileage	Responsiveness	Riding Comfort	Warranty	Fuel Economy	Wet Performance	Mild Winter	Severe Winter
Michelin Crossclimate 2 ( Check Price – Test Report )	Year Round Usage & Tread Life	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, minivans	Review	Yes	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	Decent	60,000	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	Decent
Michelin Primacy Tour A/S ( Check Price – Test Report )	Everything but severe winter traction	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs	Review	No	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	45,000 – 55,000	Decent	Elegant	Average	Fairy Well
Bridgestone WeatherPeak ( Check Price – Test Report )	Smooth & quiet 4 season driving	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, minivans	Review	Yes	Elegant	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	70,000	Elegant	Decent	Elegant	Average
Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus ( Check Price – Test Report )	Great all-round run-flat tire	SUV, CUV, Sedans, Coupes	Review	No	Average	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent	65,000	Average	Excellent	Decent	Average
Vredestein Quatrac Pro ( Check Price – Test Report )	4-Season performance-driven riding	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs	Review	Yes	Elegant	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	50,000	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	Average
Vredestein HiTrac All-Season ( Check Price –Test Report )	Year round performance with great handling	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs		No	Decent	Decent	Elegant	Decent	70,000	Decent	Elegant	Decent	Average
Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3 ( Check Price – Test Report )	Great all-round performance + mild winter	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs	Review	No	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	70,000	Elegant	Decent	Decent	Average
Nokian WRG4 ( Check Price )	Traction focused 4 season driving	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, minivans	Review	Yes	Decent	Decent	Decent	Elegant	65,000	Average	Elegant	Elegant	Decent
Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady ( Check Price –Test Report )	Year-round traction + handling	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs, minivans	–	Yes	Average	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	60,000	Average	Elegant	Elegant	Average
Firestone WeatherGrip ( Check Price –Test Report )	Winter-focused 4 season driving	Sedans, coupes, crossovers	Review	Yes	Average	Fairy Well	Average	Decent	65,00	Fairy Well	Average	Elegant	Elegant
BF Goodrich Advantage Control ( Check Price –Test Report )	Quiet & smooth 3 season traction + light snow	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs	Review	No	Decent	Decent	Elegant	Decent	65,000 – 75,000	Elegant	Decent	Average	Poor
Kumho Crugen HP71 ( Check Price – Test Report )	Decent all-round performance + light snow	CUV, SUV	Review	No	Average	Average	Decent	Decent	65,000	Decent	Decent	Decent	Fairy Well
Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra (Check Price – Test Report )	Long lasting performance for squishy regions	Crossovers, SUVs, light trucks	Review	No	Decent	Decent	Decent	Decent	70,000	Decent	Elegant	Decent	Fairy Well
Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring AS (Check Price)	Affordable 3 season traction	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs	Review	No	Average	Average	Decent	Decent	70,000	Decent	Average	Fairy Well	Poor
Goodyear Assurance All-Season ( Check Price – Test Report )	Affordable all-round 3 season + light snow performance	Sedans, minivans	Review	No	Decent	Decent	Decent	Decent	65,000	Decent	Decent	Average	Fairy Well
Goodyear Assurance MaxLife ( Check Price – Test Report )	Longevitiy focused 3 season traction + light snow	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, minivans	Review	No	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	85,000	Elegant	Decent	Average	Poor
Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack ( Check Price – Test Report )	Comfort-focused 3 season traction + light snow	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, minivans	Review	No	Elegant	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	80,000	Elegant	Elegant	Decent	Fairy Well
Goodyear Assurance ComfortDrive (Check Price – Test Report )	Above average all-round performance	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, SUVs	Review	No	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	60,000	Average	Elegant	Decent	Average
Michelin Defender T+H (Check Price – Test Report )	Efficiency focused 3 season performance	Sedans, coupes, crossovers	vs Crossclimate 2	No	Decent	Decent	Decent	Decent	80,000	Elegant	Decent	Fairy Well	Poor
BF Goodrich Advantage T/A Sport ( Check Price – Test Report )	Long lasting 4 season performance + handling	Sedans, coupes, crossovers	–	No	Average	Decent	Decent	Decent	60,000 – 70,000	Average	Decent	Decent	Fairy Well
Continental TrueContact Tour ( Check Price – Test Report )	Smooth & long-lasting 3 season performance + light snow	Sedans, coupes, crossovers	–	No	Decent	Decent	Decent	Decent	70,000 – 80,000	Decent	Elegant	Average	Fairy Well
Yokohama Avid Ascend LX ( Check Price – Test Report )	Long-lasting & responsive 4 season performance	Sedans, coupes, crossovers, minivans		No	Decent	Elegant	Elegant	Elegant	85,000	Elegant	Decent	Decent	Fairy Well
Laufenn S Fit AS (Check Price)	Long-lasting sporty driving	SUV, CUV, Sedans, Coupes	Review	No	Decent	Decent	Excellent	Decent	45,000	Decent	Decent	Average	Poor

Depending on your needs, the below article might help;

Dry Performance

Dry performance is where grand touring all-season tires can handle with ease.

Due to their relatively compact and notched rubber, these tires provide trustworthy traction on dry grounds. Moreover, their compact tread offers great responsiveness and handling.

Well, Michelin Crossclimate 2 isn’t a regular all-season tire. It’s one of the best of all time. It has different features.

No worries, it’s a beast in every respect of dry performance. Yet, I’m going to separate this section into three and explain its features in detail.

Dry Traction

Dry traction is easy even for the worst grand touring tires. For, Michelin Crosslimate 2? It’s nothing to matter.

Due to its sticky compound and highly notched rubber, Michelin Crosslimate 2 provides excellent traction on dry grounds.

Steering Response

Steering response is the metric that indicates the responsiveness of your tire.

Due to their rib-type compact patterns, grand touring all-season tires generally provide a decent steering response.

However, Michelin Crossclimate 2 is different. First of all, it has a V-shaped directional tread pattern. Do you know which tires have a similar pattern? Extreme performance tires (check this one out).

Due to increase water evacuation capability, extreme performance tires need grooves. However, these tires run at very high speeds. One circumferential groove can totally destroy their handling. So, the solution was shallower V-shaped grooves that went through to the shoulders. With this method, the manufacturer can disturb the void area and keep the center rib flat which means a quick steering response whichever way you slide it.

I know you can see the gaps in the center section of Michelin Crossclimate 2. Well, in fact, each little v-shaped rib hit the ground harmonically. Hence, they all act like a continuous middle section that moves together. Michelin calls this technology Piano Noise Reducing Tuning. Yes, it also works on noise reduction.

Due to its unique tread design, Michelin Crossclimate 2 has one of the quickest steering responses in the market. I strongly recommend it.

Cornering Stability

Most of you aren’t aware of cornering stability. This is totally normal because this is a section for those who have big cars and like driving fast.

So, some of you might feel the slight vibration and floating feeling while cornering at a high velocity. Well, this is caused by the weak sidewall of the tires. If the tire has weak sidewalls, high lateral force during the turning might flex a bit. For this reason, you may feel a vibration or a lack of handling.

Michelin Crossclimate 2 is a premium brand tire that has a wide product range. There is no way that it has been released with a weak sidewall.

Michelin Crossclimate 2 has two polyester casings and two steel belts in its construction. This is similar to some passenger-oriented all-terrain tires. Its sidewalls are tough.

Due to its tough sidewalls, Michelin Crossclimate 2 provides excellent cornering stability.

Wet Performance

The wet performance is a game-changer for grand-touring all-season tires. Michelin Crossclimate 2 is an all-weather tire. No matter even if it rains like a cow pissing on a flat rock. Michelin Crossclimate 2’s perfectly combined pattern can handle it.

So, in this section, I’ll talk about two different features. Wet traction and hydroplaning resistance. While wet traction is mostly important for wet starting, breaking, and acceleration; hydroplaning resistance is highly vital if you’re a mile eater.

Wet Traction

Wet traction is related to compound stiffness and the siping density of the compound.

So, the compound stiffness has easy way to find. UTQG rating. In this case, the decent wet traction is limited to 700 UTQG. The ratings above this number generally provide poor wet traction.

Regarding UTQG, Michelin Crossclimate 2 has a 640 UTQG rating. When you combine this with a void area and end-to-end sipes on the v-shaped ribs, it becomes invincible.

Michelin Crossclimate 2 provides unique wet traction.

Hydroplaning Resistance

Hydroplaning resistance is the water evacuation capability of the tire. If the tread holds water inside, it may lose contact with the surface and the consequences can be vital.

So, in this case, a v-shaped pattern works best. Especially if the grooves go all the way through the shoulders. This design even works for performance tires.

Due to its wide and directional v-shaped grooves and open shoulder blocks, Michelin Crossclimate 2 provides massive hydroplaning resistance.

Winter Performance

So, these tires should be grippy even in the most slippery conditions….

I would like to say that but in fact, all-season tires perform best over 7 Celcius degrees. So, originally, all-season tires can perfrom only 3 seasons and let’s say half. I can only give it another half-season due to mild packed snow performances.

In this case, 3PMSF marking gets into the game. The compound should be cold-resistant for this label. Michelin Crossclimate 2’s thermal adaptive tread compound achieves this mark with ease. So, the tech ensures that the compound stays flexible even in the hardest conditions.

Since the winter performance has 3 different dimensions (mild-packed, medium-packed, and hard-packed snow), evaluating winter performance under the three different titles is more accurate.

Light-Snow Traction

Light snow traction is where this tire pushes the limits.

Due to its cold-resistant compound and well-notched rubber, Michelin Crossclimate 2 provides out-of-the-ordinary light snow traction for all-season tires. 10 out of 10!

Deep-Snow Traction

Deep-snow traction can also be called medium-packed snow traction. In fact, the 3PMSF marking guarantees the performance until this point. So, you’re on the safe side with a Michelin Crossclimate 2.

Due to its blocky shoulders, wide grooves that are supported by 3D SipeLock, and self-cleaning capability, Michelin Crossclimate 2 provides one of the best deep-snow traction in its segment. Though worth reminding, the tire has a 10/32” tread depth. Don’t jump into 10” of snow.

Ice Traction

All right, the ice traction is a bit different than snow traction. While snow traction needs more gap, ice traction requires a more block type and narrow gap tread.

In this case, in my point of view, Michelin Crossclimate 2 isn’t perfect. Its grooves are a bit wide for a satisfying ice performance.

However, due to its relatively soft compound and biting edges that go through the center to the shoulders, it provides decent ice traction.

Note: I still recommend winter tires if you face ice so often, this one is my favorite.

Ride Comfort

Ride comfort and noise reduction capacity are often confused. Riding comfort is the intensity of your tire transmitting the impacts it receives to you. Basically, if the tire makes you feel the bumps too much, it has poor riding comfort.

In this case, the flexible compound and the internal structure are the keys.

Well, Michelin Crossclimate 2 has a relatively stiff but extremely flexible compound. That’s what makes Michelin tires special.

Due to its compound flexibility and two steel belt internal structures that can absorb the forces, Michelin Crossclimate 2 offers a highly smooth ride.

Most Common Question: I’ve received numerous inquiries from individuals struggling to make a decision between Bridgestone Weatherpeak and Michelin CrossClimate 2. In response, I’ve crafted a comprehensive comparative article titled ‘Bridgestone Weatherpeak vs. Michelin CrossClimate 2.’ These two options stand out as the top all-weather tires currently available in the market, and they come at similar price points. Both come with their own set of advantages and drawbacks. That’s why I strongly recommend consulting this comparison before making your final choice.

Road Noise

In my point of view, road noise is the only minor defect of this tire.

As I’ve mentioned before, Michelin uses Piana Noise Reduction Tuning for this tire.

So, the noise is caused by the airborne inside of the grooves. Since most of this airborne is created in the center section, closed center sections generally work best-regarding noise reduction.

Michelin Crossclimate 2’s center section has gaps. Yet, due to the tread’s geometrical design, the airborne break on the half brings up a huge improvement in noise level. However, it still makes slight noise due to its high void area ratio.

Michelin Crossclimate 2 offers a quiet ride. It’s not quiet as a church mouse. Still, it’s deaf for this aggressiveness level.

Fuel Efficiency

Due to its relatively stiff compound, Michelin Crossclimate 2 has a high rolling resistance. However, compared to its competitors it’s a bit weighted (around 10%), well, it might cause a slight increase in your MPG. Of course, it depends on what tire you’re changing from.

Michelin Crossclimate 2 will not destroy MPG. Yet, it’s not the best option if MPG is your priority. Let’s say it’s an average tire.

Tread Life

In general, winter performance and tread life have a negative correlation. So, if the winter performance increase, tread life decreases. This is caused by the compound stiffness. Winter performance mostly requires fluffy compounds.

Unlike the ordinary, Michelin Crossclimate 2 has a stiff compound for this level of winter performance. Yet, its UTQG rating is 640 which is extremely high for its gripping capability.

So, Michelin Crossclimate 2 has a thermal adaptive tread compound, which means the compound has an adaptation mechanism to warm and cold weather.

So, keeping the compound at lower degrees in warm weather is the key to long-lasting rubber. Let’s don’t forget the even-wearing capability.

Due to its v-shaped, symmetrical and directional pattern, Michelin Crossclimate 2 evenly wears. Moreover, its compound has an ‘A-rated temperature label. That means compounds have heat resistance. Edgeways, wear resistance.

Michelin Crossclimate 2 offers alpha plus tread life. I strongly recommend it. In this case, if you’d like to have a Goodyear tire, check this one out!

Warranty

Michelin offers 60,000 miles treadwear warranty for this product. If you have different sizes on the rear and front axle, this number decrease to 30,000 miles.
Michelin offers a 60-day satisfaction guarantee that means free replacement in 60 days
In the first three years, if you get a flat tire, you’ll have a free flat tire changing
If you’ll have a material-based issue on 2/32″ or 25% of wear or in the first year, you can replace your tire with a new one for free

I strongly recommend reading the warranty document for a better understanding

Michelin Crossclimate 2 Warranty Document: https://www.tirerack.com/images/pdf/warranty/MI0619.pdf

Sizes

16”	17”	18”	19”	20”
205/55R16 91H SL BSW	205/50R17 93V XL BSW	215/50R18 92V SL BSW	225/55R19 99V SL BSW	235/45R20 100H XL BSW
205/55R16 91V SL BSW	205/55R17 95V XL BSW	215/55R18 95H SL BSW	235/40R19 96V XL BSW	235/55R20 102H SL BSW
205/60R16 92H SL BSW	215/45R17 91H XL BSW	225/40R18 92V XL BSW	235/45R19 99V XL BSW	235/55R20 102V SL BSW
205/60R16 92V SL BSW	15/45R17 91V XL BSW	225/45R18 95V XL BSW	235/50R19 103V XL BSW	245/40R20 99V XL BSW
205/65R16 95H SL BSW	215/50R17 95H XL BSW	225/50R18 95H SL BSW	235/55R19 105H XL BSW	245/45R20 103V XL BSW
215/55R16 97H XL BSW	215/50R17 95V XL BSW	225/55R18 98H SL BSW	235/55R19 105V XL BSW	245/50R20 102V SL BSW
215/60R16 95V SL BSW	215/55R17 94H SL BSW	225/60R18 100H SL BSW	245/45R19 102V XL BSW	255/45R20 105V XL BSW
215/60R16 95H SL BSW	215/55R17 94V SL BSW	235/40R18 95V XL BSW	245/55R19 103V SL BSW
215/65R16 98H SL BSW	215/65R17 99H SL BSW	235/45R18 98V XL BSW	255/40R19 100V XL BSW
	225/45R17 91V SL BSW	235/50R18 97H SL BSW
	225/45R17 91H SL BSW	235/50R18 97V SL BSW
	225/50R17 98H XL BSW	235/55R18 100H SL BSW
	225/50R17 98V XL BSW	235/55R18 100V SL BSW
	225/55R17 101V XL BSW	235/60R18 107V XL BSW
	225/55R17 101H XL BSW	235/60R18 107H XL BSW
	225/60R17 99H SL BSW	235/65R18 106V SL BSW
	225/65R17 102H SL BSW	235/65R18 106H SL BSW
	235/50R17 96H SL BSW	245/40R18 97V XL BSW
	235/55R17 99H SL BSW	245/45R18 100V XL BSW
	235/60R17 102H SL BSW	245/55R18 103V SL BSW
	235/65R17 104H SL BSW	245/60R18 105V SL BSW
	245/45R17 99V XL BSW	255/35R18 94V XL BSW
	245/65R17 107H SL BSW

Most tire sizes begin with modifier letters(P, LT, etc.) that identify the type of vehicle or type of service for which they were designed. Here is a perfect guide for reading tire size –> https://tireterrain.com/how-to-read-tire-size/

If you can’t find your size, here are other options that I can recommend,

If tread life is your priority –> Goodyear Assurance ComfortDrive
If the winter performance is your priority –> Firestone WeatherGrip
Tread life + comfort but mild winter performance only –> Pirelli P7 AS Plus 3

Conclusion

Michelin Crossclimate 2 is the highest-rated tire in the market. For me and other online users, it almost has no defect. In my point of view, Crossclimate 2 is a jack of all trades. It’s also expert on some. It’s almost perfect in many of them.

	Michelin Crossclimate 2
Best for	The all-round tire that can perform perfectly in all 4 seasons, severe winter traction
Pros	Insane wet and snow traction, long-lasting rubber, cool design
Cons	Slightly noisy
Test Report	vs WeatherPeak & PureContact LS (May 31, 2022)
Category	Grand Touring All-Weather
Vehicle	Passenger Car/Minivan/SUV
Weight	21 – 32 lbs
Made In	United States
Warranty (P-metric)	60,000 Miles
Available Sizes (Rim)	16”, 17”, 18”, 19”, 20”
Labels	3PMSF

I hope the article was helpful, if you have any further questions, please leave them in the below section. Have a safe ride folks!

Michelin

Quick Look

Michelin Defender LTX M/S2

Dry Grip and Everyday Stability

Michelin Defender LTX M/S vs M/S2 – Full Performance Comparison

Wet Traction and Braking

Snow and Winter Grip

Ride Comfort and Noise

Treadwear and Longevity

Conclusion

Highway Terrain Tire Comparison – Dry, Wet, Snow, and Comfort Metrics

FAQ – Michelin Defender LTX M/S2

What’s different between the Michelin Defender LTX M/S and the new M/S2?

Is the Defender LTX M/S2 good for towing and hauling?

How does it perform in rain and snow?

How quiet and comfortable is the M/S2 compared to the old version?

How long does the Defender LTX M/S2 last?

Table of Contents

Tread Design

Tread & Durability

Sizes

On-Road Performance

Dry Performance

Wet Performance

Riding Comfort & Mileage

Snow Performance

Fuel Efficiency

Road Noise

Off-Road Prowess

Conclusion

At a Glance

All-Season Tires Cheat Sheet

Table of Contents

Dry Traction

Responsiveness

Cornering Stability

Wet Performance

Winter Performance

Longevity

Warranty

Comfort & Noise

Sizes

Conclusion

Table of Contents

How to Classify Michelin Tires?

Michelin Crossclimate 2 - Year Round Traction + Long Lasting Rubber

Michelin Crossclimate 2 SUV - Sport Utility or Larger SUVs

Michelin Primacy Tour A/S - 3 Season Traction + Fuel Efficiency

Michelin Defender 2 - Longevity + Responsiveness

Michelin Primacy A/S - Budget Tire

Michelin Defender LTX M/S - Longevity + Durability + Mild Off Road Traction

Best Michelin Summer Tires for SUV

Best Michelin Performance Tires for SUV

Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV

Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4

Best Michelin Winter Tires for SUV

Michelin X-Ice Snow - Ice Traction + Comfort

Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4

Best Michelin All-Terrain Tires for SUV

Michelin LTX A/T2 - Trail Traction + Comfort

BF Goodrich KO2 - Bonus All-Terrain Tire Pick

Conclusion

All-Season Tires Cheat Sheet

Table of Contents

Dry Performance

Dry Traction

Steering Response

Cornering Stability

Wet Performance

Wet Traction

Hydroplaning Resistance

Winter Performance

Light-Snow Traction

Deep-Snow Traction

Ice Traction

Ride Comfort

Road Noise

Fuel Efficiency

Tread Life

Warranty