Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Nokian Remedy WRG5: The all-weather tire war just got more intense with the brand-new Nokian Remedy WRG5, launched in 2024, stepping into the 3PMSF-certified segment. But can it take down the Michelin CrossClimate 2, a proven benchmark in the category? With Nokian’s deep winter expertise infused into the WRG5, this battle will test if the new contender has what it takes to challenge Michelin’s all-weather dominance! Let’s find out!
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Results: Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Nokian Remedy WRG5
Results below were taken from the Tyre Review’s “The 7 BEST All Weather Tires Tested” Test. A total of 7 tires were tested this time around with an intriguing studless winter refence to gauge the all season performances. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Nokian Remedy WRG5 based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
As both tires are categorized as all weather tires with a 3 peak mountain logo on it, an extensive snow & ice testing was conducted. Note that for subjective comfort evaluation, we equate 1 point as 5%. The tire size of interest is a 225/65R17 which is a common tire size for Honda CRV and Mazda CX-5. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle of choice is a Toyota Rav 4.
Wet
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 stops 9.5 feet (8%) shorter than the Nokian Remedy WRG5 in wet braking, with distances of 113 feet (34.41 m) vs. 122.4 feet (37.32 m). In wet handling, both tires are nearly identical, with the CrossClimate 2 completing the lap just 0.07 seconds faster, at 74.65 seconds vs. 74.72 seconds. Subjective wet handling scores show a 2.5% advantage for the CrossClimate 2, rated at 9.5 points compared to the WRG5’s 9 points. Straight-line aquaplaning resistance is also slightly better for the CrossClimate 2, maintaining control at 52 mph (83.7 km/h), just 0.5 mph (1%) faster than the WRG5 at 51.5 mph (82.9 km/h).
Remedy WRG5 :
- -8% in wet braking
- ~0% in wet handling (lap time)
- -2.5% in subjective wet handling
- -1% in straight aquaplaning
Snow
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 stops 0.46 feet (1%) shorter than the Nokian Remedy WRG5 in snow braking, with distances of 53.7 feet (16.38 m) vs. 54.2 feet (16.52 m). In snow traction, the CrossClimate 2 accelerates to speed 0.03 seconds (1%) faster, completing the test in 3.21 seconds compared to 3.24 seconds for the WRG5. Snow handling times are nearly identical, with the CrossClimate 2 finishing just 0.02 seconds quicker at 84.26 seconds vs. 84.28 seconds. However, in subjective snow handling, the WRG5 holds a 2.5% advantage, scoring 10 points compared to the CrossClimate 2’s 9.5 points, indicating slightly better driver confidence in snowy conditions.
Remedy WRG5 :
- -1% in snow braking
- -1% in snow traction
- 0% in snow handling (lap time)
- -2.5% in subjective snow handling
Ice
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 stops 3.5 feet (9%) shorter than the Nokian Remedy WRG5 in ice braking, with distances of 33.5 feet (10.2 m) vs. 36.9 feet (11.25 m). However, in ice traction, the WRG5 accelerates to speed 0.18 seconds (2%) faster, completing the test in 9.61 seconds compared to 9.79 seconds for the CrossClimate 2.
Remedy WRG5 :
- -9% in ice braking
- +2% in ice traction
Dry
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 stops 11.9 feet (9%) shorter than the Nokian Remedy WRG5 in dry braking, with distances of 122.5 feet (37.33 m) vs. 134.4 feet (40.96 m). However, in dry handling, the WRG5 is 0.22 seconds (~0%) faster, completing the lap in 73.63 seconds compared to 73.85 seconds for the CrossClimate 2. Both tires received identical subjective dry handling scores of 9.75 points, indicating similar driver confidence and stability on dry roads.
Remedy WRG5 :
- -9% in dry braking
- ~0% in dry handling (lap time)
- 0% in subjective dry handling
Noise & Comfort
The Nokian Remedy WRG5 offers a 2.5% advantage in subjective comfort, scoring 9 points compared to the Michelin CrossClimate 2’s 8.5 points, suggesting a smoother ride. In subjective noise perception, the WRG5 is rated 2.5% higher, with a 9.5-point score versus 9 points for the CrossClimate 2, indicating a quieter experience. However, in measured exterior noise, the CrossClimate 2 is slightly quieter by 0.8 dB, producing 72 dB compared to the WRG5’s 72.8 dB.
Remedy WRG5 :
- +2.5% in subjective comfort
- +2.5% in subjective noise
- -1% in exterior noise (+0.8 dB)
Rolling Resistance
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 has 4% lower rolling resistance than the Nokian Remedy WRG5, with values of 7.05 N/kN vs. 7.31 N/kN. This suggests the CrossClimate 2 is slightly more fuel-efficient, requiring less energy to roll compared to the WRG5.
Remedy WRG5 :
- -4% in rolling resistance
Price
The Nokian Remedy WRG5 is $25 (13%) cheaper than the Michelin CrossClimate 2 in 225/65R17, priced at $195 vs. $220. This makes the WRG5 a more budget-friendly option in the all-weather segment.
Tire size: 225/65R17
- CrossClimate 2 : $ 220
- Remedy WRG5 : $ 195
Difference: -13% more cheaper for Remedy WRG5.
Conclusion
From my expert perspective, the Nokian Remedy WRG5 impresses with its comfort, noise levels, and subjective snow performance, making it a solid all-weather contender. It also comes at a 13% lower price, adding to its value proposition. However, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 maintains its dominance with superior wet and dry braking, better rolling resistance, and stronger ice performance, ensuring a safer and more efficient ride. While the WRG5 puts up a strong fight, the CrossClimate 2 still pulls ahead as the more well-rounded and refined choice in the all-weather segment.
Dr Edwin Pang