Bridgestone Blizzak IcePeak vs Michelin X-Ice Snow+: Both Bridgestone and Michelin are entering the studless winter market with brand-new flagship tires: the Blizzak IcePeak and X-Ice Snow+. This is a fresh head-to-head between two of the biggest names in winter tires, with both promising stronger ice, snow and everyday winter performance. But when conditions get difficult, which new tire is actually better? Let’s find out.
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Results : Bridgestone Blizzak IcePeak vs Michelin X-Ice Snow+
The test results are based on Treadwell data from Discount Tire. The graph below compares the Bridgestone Blizzak IcePeak vs Michelin X-Ice Snow+ across key performance categories.
For subjective evaluations, each point is treated as equivalent to a 5% difference. For example, if Tire A scores a 4 and Tire B scores a 3, Tire A is considered 5% better than Tire B in that category.
Snow
In snow braking, the Bridgestone Blizzak IcePeak stopped in 87 feet, compared with 90 feet for the Michelin X-Ice Snow+, giving Bridgestone a 3-foot advantage and a 3% better result. Snow acceleration, snow handling and snow skid control were all identical, with 0% difference between the two tires.
Overall, snow performance is extremely close. Bridgestone only pulls ahead in braking, while the rest of the snow tests are tied.
X-Ice Snow+ :
- -3% Snow Braking
- 0% Snow Acceleration
- 0% Snow Handling
- 0% Snow Skid control
Mileage
In mileage, the Michelin X-Ice Snow+ reached a median 28,000 miles, compared with 25,500 miles for the Bridgestone Blizzak IcePeak. That gives Michelin a 2,500-mile advantage, or 10% better mileage.
X-Ice Snow+ :
- +10% Mileage
Fuel Consumption
In fuel efficiency, the Michelin X-Ice Snow+ scored 2.5/5, compared with 1.5/5 for the Bridgestone Blizzak IcePeak. Michelin therefore has a 1-point advantage, or 5% better fuel efficiency.
X-Ice Snow+ :
- +5% Fuel Efficiency
Price
For 215/55 R17, the Bridgestone Blizzak IcePeak costs $185, while the Michelin X-Ice Snow+ costs $208. That makes the Michelin $23 more expensive, or 11% higher in price. So Michelin asks for a noticeable premium, and the key question is whether its better mileage and fuel efficiency are enough to justify that extra cost.
Tire size: 215/55 R17
- Blizzak IcePeak :$ 185
Difference: +11% more expensive for X-Ice Snow+
Conclusion:
From my point of view, this is a very close battle. The Bridgestone Blizzak IcePeak has the edge in snow braking and is also cheaper, while the Michelin X-Ice Snow+ fights back with better mileage and fuel efficiency.
The one big missing piece is ice performance, which was not tested. For now, these are the best available results we have this season, so there is no complete winner yet. Stay tuned for the next update once more test data becomes available.
Dr Edwin Pang