Michelin CrossClimate SUV vs Michelin Defender LTX M/S: Ladies and gentlemen, gear up for a titanic tussle between two premium tire giants from Michelin: The Michelin CrossClimate SUV, which launched in early 2016, going head-to-head with the Michelin Defender LTX M/S, unveiled back in 2015. This is the ultimate clash of the titans, with both brands vying to be the king of their respective segments: the All-season SUV tires versus the All-season truck tires.
Firstly, let’s talk about the Michelin CrossClimate SUV. Released as a groundbreaking innovation, this tire has quickly become the talk of the SUV world. This all-season tire was designed to ensure optimal safety in every weather condition, and it does exactly that. Armed with cutting-edge technology, it offers superb grip on wet roads, reliable traction on snow, and exceptional durability in high-heat conditions. The CrossClimate SUV tires blend a unique tread design with Michelin’s best-ever compound technology, resulting in excellent fuel efficiency and extended tread life. These tires scream resilience and versatility, ensuring that SUV owners will not be left wanting in any season.
On the other side of the ring, we have the formidable Michelin Defender LTX M/S. This tire, a sensation in the All-season truck tires market, has been ruling the roads for the best part of a decade. Engineered with Michelin’s patented MaxTouch Construction, these tires promise superior tread life in severe conditions. The Defender LTX M/S boasts Evertread compound technology, providing robust strength to withstand demanding commercial usage, and enhancing wet traction for safety. It’s a tire built to carry heavier loads, promising safety and stability when you need it most.
So, are you ready for the big showdown? It’s time to put on your seat belts as we prepare for this exhilarating face-off. Two leading tire models, each dominating their segments, are about to clash in the ultimate test of performance, safety, and durability. This is more than a comparison, it’s a battle for supremacy. Who will come out on top? The dependable Michelin Defender LTX M/S with its proven track record, or the innovative Michelin CrossClimate SUV, challenging the status quo? Stay tuned to find out!
Table of Contents
Results
Ideally, you would want a head-to-head test result to demonstrate the distinct performance differences between the two products. However, in this instance, no test results are available that compare these two products directly, due to clear segmentation. Fortunately, Consumer Report has tested both tires, allowing us to use their ratings to assess the performance of each. Please note that Consumer Report’s rating system uses a maximum score of 5, with a 5/5 rating representing the best possible achievement.
The graph above shows the comparison between Michelin CrossClimate SUV vs Michelin Defender LTX M/S based on the relevant performance category. The tire size of interest for the test for Defender LTX M/S is a 265/70R17 which is a common tire size for Dodge Ram 1500. While the tire size of interest for CrossClimate SUV test is 245/60R18 which is a common tire size for Subaru Outback. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information.
Dry
As we dive into the performance aspects of these two titanic tires, the dry braking performance stands out as a crucial consideration for many drivers. This measurement, often taken from a speed of 60mph down to a complete stop, is a critical determinant of safety and control.
Dry Braking :
- CrossClimate SUV : 5/5
- Defender LTX M/S : 3/5
In this battle of braking, the Michelin CrossClimate SUV takes the upper hand. With an outstanding rating of 5/5, it excels in its ability to bring your vehicle to a quick and controlled halt even from highway speeds. The secret to this success lies in its innovative tread design and the use of a high-performing rubber compound, which contributes to its excellent grip on dry surfaces. When faced with an unexpected need to brake, you can trust the CrossClimate SUV to perform admirably.
On the other hand, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S doesn’t quite hit the same peak in dry braking performance, scoring a slightly lower 3/5. While this score may appear to lag behind, it’s worth noting that the Defender is designed with an emphasis on durability and long tread life, particularly under the heavy loads and tough conditions often encountered by trucks. Despite this, its braking performance on dry surfaces remains more than satisfactory for the everyday driver, providing reliable control in most scenarios.
Therefore, if dry braking performance is a top priority for you, the Michelin CrossClimate SUV appears to have a distinct edge in this category. However, the Defender LTX M/S continues to hold its own, offering dependable braking alongside its key strengths in durability and load-bearing capacity. The question remains: which will be the top choice for you in this battle of braking performance?
Wet
Navigating through wet conditions is a critical performance test for any tire, evaluating their effectiveness in wet braking, wet handling, and resistance to hydroplaning. Let’s compare how the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and the Defender LTX M/S measure up in these aspects.
Wet Braking:
- CrossClimate SUV : 4/5
- Defender LTX M/S : 2/5
In the realm of wet braking, the Michelin CrossClimate SUV boasts a commendable score of 4/5. With its advanced tread compound and efficient water evacuation channels, it confidently brings your SUV to a halt on wet surfaces, enhancing your driving safety in rainy conditions. The Defender LTX M/S, however, manages a rating of 2/5 in this category. While it still provides reliable braking in wet conditions, it falls somewhat short of the CrossClimate SUV’s impressive stopping power.
Wet Handling :
- CrossClimate SUV : 4/5
- Defender LTX M/S : 3/5
When it comes to wet handling, the CrossClimate SUV continues its stellar performance with a score of 4/5. Its unique tread design ensures consistent contact with the road, offering precise control and handling even on slippery surfaces. The Defender LTX M/S presents a respectable score of 3/5 here. It handles adequately in wet conditions, albeit not quite matching the superior control exhibited by the CrossClimate SUV.
Hydroplaning :
- CrossClimate SUV: 4/5
- Defender LTX M/S : 4/5
Finally, we examine their resistance to hydroplaning, a key safety feature that prevents the tires from losing grip in deep water. In this aspect, both tires tie with a score of 4/5. This suggests that both the CrossClimate SUV and the Defender LTX M/S are equally capable of maintaining traction and preventing loss of control on water-logged roads.
In summary, the Michelin CrossClimate SUV outperforms the Defender LTX M/S in wet braking and handling but shares equal footing in resistance to hydroplaning. Both tires show their mettle in wet conditions, with the CrossClimate SUV offering a slight edge in overall performance. Your choice may ultimately depend on your specific needs and driving conditions.
Snow
When it comes to tackling snowy roads, both the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and the Defender LTX M/S display stellar performances. Their capabilities in snowy conditions can be gauged by their scores in snow traction, with both tires earning an impressive 5/5 rating.
Snow Traction:
- CrossClimate SUV : 5/5
- Defender LTX M/S : 5/5
The Michelin CrossClimate SUV’s excellent performance on snowy roads is backed by the coveted 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. This symbol represents a tire’s proven ability to perform in severe snow conditions, meaning it’s undergone and passed rigorous testing for snow performance. This makes it a reliable choice for those harsh winter months where you’re likely to encounter snowy or icy conditions. On the other hand, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S, despite lacking the 3PMSF symbol, still demonstrates excellent snow traction, also earning a perfect score of 5/5. This means, while it hasn’t been specifically tested or certified for severe snow conditions, it nevertheless exhibits a high level of performance on snowy surfaces, offering reliable traction and control.
In summary, if you frequently drive in heavy snow conditions, you may find an added layer of confidence in the CrossClimate SUV due to its 3PMSF certification. However, the Defender LTX M/S also stands as a worthy contender, delivering an equal level of snow traction performance. This face-off in the snow indicates a high level of commitment to winter safety from both tires, making either a solid choice for those snowy drives.
Mileage (real actual test !)
In terms of tread life, or how many miles the tires can go before needing replacement, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S significantly outperforms the CrossClimate SUV. The Defender LTX M/S delivers an impressive 80,000 miles, demonstrating its focus on durability and long-term performance, essential attributes for all-season truck tires.
- CrossClimate SUV: 40,000 miles
- Defender LTX M/S : 80,000 miles
This impressive mileage places the Defender LTX M/S second only to the Continental TerrainContact H/T, which offers a staggering 95,000 miles in the all-season truck tires segment. Despite falling short of this figure, the Defender’s performance is nevertheless notable, providing an excellent balance between longevity and year-round performance. On the other hand, the Michelin CrossClimate SUV clocks in with a mileage of 40,000 miles. While this may seem significantly less when compared to the Defender LTX M/S, it’s essential to consider its strengths. The CrossClimate SUV is designed with a strong emphasis on versatility and safety across all seasons, including superior winter performance as indicated by its 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol. This focus on all-weather performance could contribute to a shorter tread life.
In the all-season SUV segment, the top performer for mileage is the Continental CrossContact LX25, with an impressive 85,000 miles. However, the CrossContact LX25 does not carry the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol, indicating a potential trade-off between winter performance and tread life. To sum up, if mileage is a top priority, the Defender LTX M/S is a standout choice in its category. Meanwhile, the CrossClimate SUV may offer fewer miles, but it makes up for it with robust all-weather capabilities, particularly for winter driving. Your ultimate choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences, whether it’s maximum mileage or superior performance across all seasons.
Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH)
Ride comfort and noise are two factors that significantly impact the overall driving experience. Let’s delve into how the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and the Defender LTX M/S perform in these areas.
Ride Comfort :
- CrossClimate SUV : 4/5
- Defender LTX M/S : 3/5
In terms of ride comfort, the CrossClimate SUV holds a slight advantage with a score of 4/5. This all-season SUV tire is designed with features to provide a smoother, more comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections and reducing vibrations. This makes for a more enjoyable driving experience, whether you’re embarking on a short city drive or a long highway journey. The Defender LTX M/S, on the other hand, secures a decent 3/5 in ride comfort. While this tire is built with a focus on strength and durability to handle heavy loads, it does not compromise on providing a satisfactory level of comfort. It absorbs a fair share of road irregularities, ensuring a decently comfortable ride even under demanding conditions.
Noise :
- CrossClimate SUV : 4/5
- Defender LTX M/S : 5/5
When it comes to noise, the Defender LTX M/S truly shines, earning a perfect 5/5. Engineered with noise-reducing technology, these tires ensure a quiet ride, effectively minimizing tire noise for a peaceful, comfortable drive. This is particularly beneficial on long trips, where tire noise can become quite noticeable and potentially tiresome. The CrossClimate SUV, meanwhile, brings in a respectable 4/5 in the noise category. Despite its emphasis on all-weather performance, this tire manages to keep road noise at a low level, offering a comparatively quiet ride.
To sum up, both the CrossClimate SUV and the Defender LTX M/S perform well in terms of ride comfort and noise. However, the CrossClimate SUV seems to offer a slightly more comfortable ride, while the Defender LTX M/S guarantees a quieter driving experience. Depending on your priorities, you can decide which factor matters most to you in your tire selection.
Rolling Resistance
Rolling resistance refers to the energy lost when a tire is moving, which directly affects the fuel efficiency of a vehicle. A tire with lower rolling resistance will be more fuel-efficient compared to one with higher rolling resistance.
Rolling Resistance :
- CrossClimate SUV : 4/5
- Defender LTX M/S : 5/5
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S truly excels in this category, earning a perfect score of 5/5. This tire is designed with advanced technology that reduces rolling resistance, leading to improved fuel efficiency. This is an excellent feature for truck drivers who may often cover long distances, as it could result in substantial fuel savings over time. On the other hand, the Michelin CrossClimate SUV secures a respectable 4/5 in the same category. While this tire is primarily designed for exceptional performance across different weather conditions, it doesn’t overlook the importance of fuel efficiency. Its design and material composition ensure a low rolling resistance, promoting better fuel economy compared to many other all-season SUV tires.
It’s worth noting the trade-off you’ve pointed out. The Defender LTX M/S’s excellent rolling resistance could be a contributing factor to its slightly weaker wet braking performance. On the other hand, the CrossClimate SUV, with its focus on superb wet braking, may have a marginally higher rolling resistance. In summary, if fuel efficiency is a key consideration for you, the Defender LTX M/S would be an excellent choice with its minimal rolling resistance. However, the CrossClimate SUV also provides a solid performance in this regard while ensuring exceptional performance across different weather conditions. Your choice ultimately depends on your specific driving needs and priorities.
Price
When it comes to pricing for the 265/60R18 tire size, both the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and the Defender LTX M/S come in at a similar range, highlighting Michelin’s consistent value proposition across their product lineup.
Tire size: 265/60R18
- CrossClimate SUV: $273
- Defender LTX M/S : $266
Difference: -3% more cheaper for Defender LTX M/S.
The Michelin CrossClimate SUV is priced at $273 per tire. While it may be slightly more expensive, its higher price tag is justified by its superior all-weather capabilities, including its certified snow performance marked by the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol. This tire is designed to deliver exceptional safety and comfort across different weather conditions, making it a worthy consideration despite its slightly higher cost.
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S, on the other hand, is priced slightly lower at $266 per tire, making it about 3% cheaper than the CrossClimate SUV. Despite its lower price, the Defender LTX M/S doesn’t compromise on performance. It offers excellent mileage, impressive rolling resistance for better fuel efficiency, and great snow traction.
In conclusion, the price difference between the two tires is minimal, indicating that your decision should be more focused on the specific features and performance attributes that best suit your driving needs. If all-weather performance and comfort are your top priorities, the CrossClimate SUV would be an excellent choice. However, if you are looking for a balance between price, mileage, and fuel efficiency, the Defender LTX M/S would be a solid choice.
Summary
In this head-to-head battle between Michelin’s CrossClimate SUV and Defender LTX M/S, we’ve compared a broad range of performance aspects and characteristics. The CrossClimate SUV shines in several key areas, notably dry braking, where it scored 5/5, beating the Defender’s score of 3/5. The tire also performed admirably in wet braking and handling, earning 4/5 in both categories, with the Defender trailing at 2/5 and 3/5, respectively. Both tires equally resisted hydroplaning, earning a score of 4/5. The CrossClimate SUV also excelled in snow traction, scoring 5/5 and boasting the crucial 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol, indicating its superior winter performance. However, the tire’s tread life was considerably shorter at 40,000 miles.
On the other hand, the Defender LTX M/S proved to be a robust tire in several respects. It matched the CrossClimate SUV’s snow traction score of 5/5, demonstrating excellent snowy condition performance despite lacking the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol. Its standout feature was its remarkable tread life, clocking in at a whopping 80,000 miles. The Defender also shined in its minimal rolling resistance and noise, scoring 5/5 in both, indicating better fuel efficiency and a quieter ride. Pricing for the two tires is comparable, with the Defender LTX M/S being marginally cheaper by about 3%.
In conclusion, your choice between the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and Defender LTX M/S will largely depend on your specific driving needs and conditions. If all-weather performance and safety, particularly in winter, are your priority, the CrossClimate SUV stands out. If you seek a tire with excellent mileage, superior fuel efficiency, and quieter driving experience at a slightly lower cost, the Defender LTX M/S is a compelling option. Regardless of your choice, both tires reflect Michelin’s commitment to quality, performance, and safety.