Continental TrueContact Tour vs Continental CrossContact LX25 (includes mileage !)

Continental TrueContact Tour vs Continental CrossContact LX25: The automotive industry is home to a myriad of tire options, each designed to meet specific needs and deliver exceptional performance under various conditions. Among the key players in this industry is Continental AG, a German multinational automotive parts manufacturing company renowned for its high-quality tires. In this article, we will delve into a comparison between two of Continental’s popular tire models: the Continental TrueContact Tour and the Continental CrossContact LX25.

Introduced to the market in 2018, the TrueContact Tour is an all-season tire designed for a variety of vehicles, including sedans, minivans, small crossovers, and compact SUVs. It boasts an array of impressive features such as the Comfort Ride Technology to enhance ride smoothness and EcoPlus Technology for extended treadwear and improved fuel efficiency. On the other hand, launched in 2019, the CrossContact LX25 is a special tire intended for all-season use in light trucks and SUVs. This model is built with excellent features such as TractionPlus Technology, providing excellent wet braking performance and durability. It is also well-regarded for its superb road noise reduction, making for a quiet and comfortable ride.

Although both tire models lack the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol – indicating they are not specifically designed for severe snow conditions – they still deliver commendable performance in light winter conditions due to their all-season capabilities. Notably, their design enables them to provide reliable traction, control, and stability on wet and dry roads alike. As we delve deeper into our comparison of the Continental TrueContact Tour and the Continental CrossContact LX25, we will explore their unique features, performance characteristics, and what sets them apart, helping you make an informed decision for your tire needs.

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 Continental TrueContact Tour vs Continental CrossContact LX25 based on the relevant performance category. The tire size of interest for the test for TrueContact Tour is a 215/55R17 which is a common tire size for Honda HR-V. While the tire size of interest for CrossContact LX25 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

When it comes to assessing the dry braking performance of tires, one crucial aspect to consider is the tire’s ability to reduce speed from 100km/h down to 0. Braking performance under dry conditions is essential, and both the Continental TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 score admirably in this regard.

Dry Braking :

• TrueContact Tour : 4/5
• CrossContact LX25 : 4/5

The TrueContact Tour’s dry braking performance is impressive. Equipped with Continental’s Performance Tread Technology, the tire’s braking response is prompt and reliable, even at high speeds. It scores a solid 4 out of 5 in dry braking, providing drivers with a strong sense of control and safety while handling their vehicles.

Similarly, the CrossContact LX25 also garners a score of 4 out of 5 in dry braking performance. This tire features Continental’s TractionPlus Technology, which contributes to a significant reduction in stopping distances under dry conditions. Consequently, the LX25 offers an impressive braking performance, bringing an SUV or light truck from 100km/h to a complete stop in a remarkably efficient manner.

In summary, both the Continental TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 exhibit remarkable performance in dry braking, as evidenced by their scores. Although these are general assessments and actual results can vary based on specific vehicle types and conditions, these tires assure strong and reliable braking capabilities, contributing significantly to overall road safety.

Wet

Wet road conditions pose unique challenges, and tire performance under such circumstances can significantly impact driving safety. In this context, we will compare the wet performance of the Continental TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 across three crucial areas: wet braking, wet handling, and hydroplaning resistance.

Wet Braking:

• TrueContact Tour : 3/5
• CrossContact LX25 : 3/5

In terms of wet braking, both the TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 receive a score of 3 out of 5. This suggests that while these tires may not deliver top-tier performance like some specialized wet condition tires, they are more than capable of providing reliable braking under wet conditions. Both tires incorporate advanced tread technology that improves grip, consequently aiding in reducing the braking distance in wet road situations.

Wet Handling :

• TrueContact Tour : 4/5
• CrossContact LX25 : 3/5

When it comes to wet handling, the TrueContact Tour slightly outperforms the CrossContact LX25 with a score of 4 out of 5 compared to the latter’s 3 out of 5. The TrueContact Tour, with its specially designed symmetrical tread pattern and additional siping, delivers enhanced traction on wet surfaces, contributing to better control and handling. Meanwhile, the CrossContact LX25, although competent in handling wet conditions, may not provide as much precision and response as the TrueContact Tour.

Hydroplaning :

• TrueContact Tour: 4/5
• CrossContact LX25 : 4/5

Lastly, in terms of hydroplaning resistance, both tires show strong performance with a score of 4 out of 5. Hydroplaning, a condition where the tire loses contact with the road surface due to water, can be particularly dangerous. Both the TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 are designed with advanced tread grooves that effectively channel water away from the contact patch, providing excellent resistance against hydroplaning.

Overall, both the Continental TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 deliver reliable performance under wet conditions. However, the TrueContact Tour may offer a slightly better handling experience in these conditions, thanks to its specialized tread design.

Snow

Navigating snowy conditions safely requires a tire that can offer consistent traction and control. The Continental TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 are both equipped to handle such conditions, albeit with some caveats. It’s important to note that neither of these tires bears the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, which certifies tires for severe snow service. Instead, both tires feature the M+S (Mud and Snow) designation, meaning they are designed to perform better than standard tires in light snow.

Snow Traction:

• TrueContact Tour: 4/5
• CrossContact LX25 : 4/5

When comparing snow traction, both the TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 score a commendable 4 out of 5. This suggests that despite not having the 3PMSF rating, these tires still offer reliable performance in light snowy conditions. The TrueContact Tour features Continental’s all-season tread compound and symmetrical tread pattern design with high-density siping, which enhances traction in snow. These design elements allow the TrueContact Tour to grip the snow effectively, providing reliable traction.

Similarly, the CrossContact LX25 also delivers excellent performance in snowy conditions. It is engineered with Continental’s TractionPlus Technology and an innovative tread pattern that improves grip on slippery surfaces. This design ensures that the LX25 maintains dependable traction under light snowy conditions. While both tires offer noteworthy snow traction for an M+S rated tire, drivers should bear in mind that these tires may not perform as well as tires with the 3PMSF symbol in severe winter weather conditions. For optimal safety, it’s recommended to use winter tires in regions with heavy snowfall and extremely low temperatures.

Mileage (real actual test !)

When considering the longevity and durability of a tire, the projected mileage is an essential factor. The Continental TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 both offer impressive tread life, but how do they fare against the segment leaders – Michelin CrossClimate2 and Michelin Defender LTX M/S?

• TrueContact Tour: 70,000 miles
• CrossContact LX25 : 85,000 miles

For the Continental TrueContact Tour, the projected tread life is about 70,000 miles. While this is a respectable figure and implies a durable, long-lasting tire, it falls short when compared to the segment leader in this category, the Michelin CrossClimate2, which boasts a substantial tread life of 85,000 miles. This difference suggests that while the TrueContact Tour offers reliable performance and good value, it might require replacement sooner than the CrossClimate2 under similar driving conditions.

Turning to the SUV/light truck tire segment, the Continental CrossContact LX25 boasts an impressive tread life of 85,000 miles. This puts it on par with the segment leader, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S, which also promises a tread life of 90,000 miles. This comparison reveals that the CrossContact LX25 is capable of matching the durability and longevity offered by some of the best tires in its category.

Overall, both the TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 demonstrate considerable longevity in their respective segments. While the TrueContact Tour falls a bit short compared to the Michelin CrossClimate2, the CrossContact LX25 rivals the Michelin Defender LTX M/S, making it a top contender in its segment for tread life.

Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH)

Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) are significant factors that influence ride quality and comfort in a vehicle, and tires play a critical role in mitigating these elements. Here we compare the NVH performances of the Continental TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25.

Ride Comfort :

• TrueContact Tour : 3/5
• CrossContact LX25 : 4/5

Starting with ride comfort, the TrueContact Tour scores a 3 out of 5. Although it features Comfort Ride Technology, which is designed to absorb road disturbances for a smoother ride, its performance appears to be average in this respect. This suggests that while the TrueContact Tour provides a reasonably comfortable ride, there may be some room for improvement compared to other tires in the same category. On the other hand, the CrossContact LX25 earns a higher score of 4 out of 5 for ride comfort. Equipped with Continental’s ComfortRide Technology and a robust design meant for heavier SUVs and light trucks, the LX25 excels at absorbing road imperfections and reducing vibrations, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.

Noise :

• TrueContact Tour : 4/5
• CrossContact LX25 : 5/5

In terms of noise, the TrueContact Tour receives a solid 4 out of 5. Its symmetric tread design and pitch sequence help to minimize road noise, resulting in a relatively quiet ride. However, the CrossContact LX25 outperforms the TrueContact Tour in this aspect, scoring a perfect 5 out of 5. The LX25’s tread design and noise-cancelling technology effectively minimize tire-road noise, offering a serene, peaceful driving experience.

In conclusion, while both the TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 offer commendable NVH performance, the CrossContact LX25 seems to have an edge. Its superior ride comfort and exceptional noise reduction make it a strong contender for those who prioritize a smooth and quiet driving experience.

Rolling Resistance

Rolling resistance refers to the energy that your vehicle needs to keep the tires moving at a steady pace on the road. A lower rolling resistance implies better fuel efficiency, as less energy is needed to keep the tires rolling.

Rolling Resistance :

• TrueContact Tour : 2/5
• CrossContact LX25 : 4/5

The Continental TrueContact Tour scores a 2 out of 5 for rolling resistance. This score suggests that the TrueContact Tour may require more energy to maintain a steady pace, which could potentially impact fuel efficiency. However, it’s important to note that the TrueContact Tour features EcoPlus Technology, a design element aimed at enhancing fuel economy. Despite this, its rolling resistance rating implies there may be room for improvement.

On the other hand, the Continental CrossContact LX25 scores a commendable 4 out of 5 in this category. The high rating signifies that the LX25 has lower rolling resistance, thus contributing to better fuel efficiency. This performance is likely due to the use of advanced technology and materials in the tire’s design that help reduce energy loss as the tire rolls.

In summary, based on the rolling resistance ratings, the CrossContact LX25 would be the more fuel-efficient choice between the two tires, making it a better option for those looking to optimize fuel consumption. However, actual fuel efficiency can be influenced by a variety of factors, including driving habits, vehicle type, and road conditions.

Price

Tire pricing is often a significant factor when choosing the right tire for your vehicle, with different models offering varying price points based on features, performance, and the technology incorporated. For a tire size of 225/65R17, the Continental TrueContact Tour is priced at $175. This tire offers a broad range of features such as Comfort Ride Technology for enhanced smoothness, EcoPlus Technology for extended treadwear and improved fuel efficiency, and a respectable performance across various conditions, which might justify its price.

Tire size: 225/65R17

TrueContact Tour: $175

CrossContact LX25: $170

Difference: -3% more cheaper for CrossContact LX25.

Meanwhile, the Continental CrossContact LX25, designed for all-season use in light trucks and SUVs, is priced slightly lower at $170. With excellent wet braking performance, durability, and a superb reduction in road noise, the CrossContact LX25 provides a good balance of price and performance, especially for drivers of SUVs and light trucks.

In summary, while the TrueContact Tour is slightly more expensive, the difference of $5 is relatively minimal. The choice between these two models would likely come down to the specific performance attributes and suitability to the vehicle type rather than price. Both tires offer excellent value for their respective price points, delivering performance, durability, and Continental’s trusted quality.

Summary

The Continental TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 are high-quality, all-season tires designed to cater to a wide variety of vehicles and driving conditions.

The TrueContact Tour is known for its robust performance, offering a good balance of dry and wet handling, snow traction, and a reasonable tread life of about 70,000 miles. However, it shows some room for improvement in areas such as rolling resistance and ride comfort. Priced at $175 for the 225/65R17 size, it offers solid value for its features. As such, the TrueContact Tour would be a suitable choice for drivers of sedans, minivans, small crossovers, and compact SUVs who prioritize balanced all-season performance and are mainly driving in urban and suburban environments with moderate winter conditions.

On the other hand, the CrossContact LX25 stands out for its exceptional noise reduction, superior ride comfort, and impressive tread life matching that of the segment leader at 85,000 miles. Its performance in terms of rolling resistance also suggests potential for better fuel efficiency. Available at a slightly lower price of $170 for the same size, it presents excellent value. Given its design and performance characteristics, the CrossContact LX25 is ideally suited for drivers of light trucks and larger SUVs. It would serve well for those who frequently navigate long drives, rougher terrains, or suburban and rural areas and value a quiet, comfortable ride alongside reliable all-season capabilities.

In conclusion, both the TrueContact Tour and the CrossContact LX25 are strong contenders in their respective categories, offering reliable performance and good value. The choice between them would largely depend on the specific needs of the driver, the type of vehicle, and the predominant driving conditions.

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