Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs GT Radial ClimateActive: The Michelin CrossClimate 2—widely regarded as the best all-season tire with the 3-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) certification—steps into the ring against the GT Radial ClimateActive, a more modest but capable contender from Giti. Can the ClimateActive punch above its weight, or will the CrossClimate 2 continue its reign as the de facto all-season king? Let’s dive into this battle!
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Results: Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs GT Radial ClimateActive
Results below were taken from the 2024 Auto Bild All Season Tire Test with a total of 15 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs GT Radial ClimateActive based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 tire was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
It’s important to note that for subjective tests, the evaluation was based on average lap speed which is commonly used in magazine tests. The tire size of interest is a 225/50 R17 which is a common tire size for BMW 3 series. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle of choice is a BMW 3 series.
Wet
We are equally impressed by the wet performance of the GT Radial ClimateActive, which holds its own against the Michelin CrossClimate 2. In wet braking, the CrossClimate 2 stops 0.2 meters shorter, making the difference almost 0%. In wet handling, the ClimateActive is 2 km/h faster, giving it a 2% advantage. However, in straight-line aquaplaning, the CrossClimate 2 resists hydroplaning 1.7 km/h better, also a 2% advantage.
ClimateActive :
- ~0% in wet braking
- +3% in wet handling
- -2% in aquaplaning
Snow
Surprisingly, in snow braking, the ClimateActive stops 0.6 meters shorter than the CrossClimate 2, giving it a 2% advantage—an unexpected result considering Michelin’s reputation in all-season performance. However, in snow traction, the CrossClimate 2 delivers 53 Newtons more pulling force, a 2% advantage in grip. For snow handling, the CrossClimate 2 is 2.2 km/h faster, making it 4% better at maintaining speed through snowy corners.
ClimateActive :
- +3% in snow braking
- -2% in snow traction
- -4% in snow handling
Mileage
However, mileage is the major weak point of the ClimateActive, as it struggles to maintain the three-way balance between wet grip, mileage, and rolling resistance—a typical conflict in tire design. The CrossClimate 2 lasts 19,780 km longer, an impressive 32% advantage, while also showing 39% lower abrasion, meaning it wears down significantly slower. This trade-off highlights the ClimateActive’s struggle to match Michelin’s durability while maintaining its strong wet and snow performance.
ClimateActive :
- -32% in mileage
- -39% in abrasion
Dry
In dry braking, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 stops 3 meters shorter than the GT Radial ClimateActive, giving it a 7% advantage. In dry handling, both tires perform closely, but the CrossClimate 2 maintains a slight edge, being 0.3 km/h faster than the ClimateActive, making it a 0% difference overall.
ClimateActive :
- -7% in dry braking
- ~0% in dry handling
Noise
In exterior noise levels, the GT Radial ClimateActive holds the advantage, measuring 0.8 dB quieter than the Michelin CrossClimate 2, giving it a 1% advantage. This means the ClimateActive produces less road noise, contributing to a more comfortable ride.
ClimateActive :
- +1% in exterior noise (-0.7 dB)
Rolling Resistance
In rolling resistance, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 performs better, generating 0.37 N/kN less resistance than the GT Radial ClimateActive, giving it a 5% advantage. This efficiency carries over to fuel consumption, where the CrossClimate 2 uses 0.14 liters less per 100 km, making it 3% more fuel-efficient than the ClimateActive.
ClimateActive :
- -5% in rolling resistance
- -3% in fuel consumption
Price
In price comparison, the GT Radial ClimateActive is 26% cheaper than the Michelin CrossClimate 2, making it a more budget-friendly option for those prioritizing cost savings.
Tire size: 225/50 R17
- CrossClimate 2 : € 164
- ClimateActive : € 140
Difference: -26% more cheaper for ClimateActive.
Conclusion
As a tire expert, I see a clear trade-off between these two contenders. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 remains the benchmark for all-season performance, excelling in dry braking, snow handling, mileage, and fuel efficiency, making it the superior long-term investment. On the other hand, the GT Radial ClimateActive impresses with better wet handling, shorter snow braking, and lower noise levels, all while being 26% more affordable. However, its weaker mileage and higher rolling resistance mean it may wear out significantly faster. Ultimately, if longevity and balanced performance are key, the CrossClimate 2 is the smarter pick, but if cost and wet grip are the priority, the ClimateActive delivers solid value.
Dr Edwin Pang