Continental TrueContact Tour vs Michelin CrossClimate 2: The Continental TrueContact Tour versus Michelin CrossClimate 2 matchup represents a classic duel in tire technology. The TrueContact Tour is your quintessential North American all-season tire, designed to deliver reliable performance across a broad range of driving conditions, from sunny days to light snowfall. On the other hand, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 stands as the undisputed king of all-weather tires, offering superior adaptability, including enhanced grip and safety in severe weather conditions, making it a robust choice for drivers facing varied climates.
In this head-to-head, the trade-offs become clear. Opting for the TrueContact Tour might mean enjoying improved fuel efficiency and a quieter ride, typical of all-season tires, suited for drivers in regions with moderate weather patterns. Meanwhile, choosing the CrossClimate 2 could mean sacrificing some fuel economy and noise level for unparalleled performance in harsh weather, including heavy rain and snow, thus appealing to those prioritizing safety and versatility.
This duel between the Continental TrueContact Tour and the Michelin CrossClimate 2 is not just about choosing tires; it’s about choosing the right partner for your vehicle based on your specific driving needs and local climate. Each tire brings its strengths to the table, making the decision a matter of balancing priorities between everyday comfort and all-terrain, all-weather readiness.
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Results: Continental TrueContact Tour vs Michelin CrossClimate 2
Ideally you would like to have a 1 v 1 test results to show its clear performance difference. However this time around as there is clear segmentation, there are no test results which ran these 2 products simultaneously. Lucky for us, consumer report has tested both tires separately and we would be able to use their ratings to judge how well both tires fared. Do note that the consumer report uses a maximum rating of 5 which means that a rating of 5/5 is the best possible achievement.
The graph above shows the comparison between Continental TrueContact Tour vs Michelin CrossClimate 2 based on the relevant performance category. The tire size of interest for this test is a 245/60R18 which is a common tire size for Ford Explorer. For further insights into various tire sizes, feel free to consult our latest tire size table.
Wet
When comparing the wet performances of the Continental TrueContact Tour and the Michelin CrossClimate 2, subtle yet significant differences emerge. In terms of wet braking, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 outshines the TrueContact Tour. Specifically, the CrossClimate 2 boasts a 4/5 rating, indicating its superior ability to stop more efficiently from 60 to 0 mph compared to the TrueContact Tour’s 3/5 rating. This difference suggests that in wet conditions, the CrossClimate 2 can offer a marginally safer stopping performance, potentially making a crucial difference in emergency situations.
Wet Braking:
- TrueContact Tour : 3/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 4/5
As for wet handling and hydroplaning resistance, both tires score evenly with 4/5 ratings, suggesting that they provide comparable levels of control and safety when navigating through wet roads. This parity means that drivers can expect a similar degree of confidence in handling sharp turns and maintaining stability during heavy rainfalls, regardless of the tire choice.
Handling (Wet) :
- TrueContact Tour : 4/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 4/5
Hydroplaning :
- TrueContact Tour : 4/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 4/5
Overall, while both tires perform commendably under wet conditions, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 has a slight edge in wet braking, which could be a decisive factor for drivers prioritizing maximum safety in all wet conditions. However, both tires offer robust handling and hydroplaning resistance, ensuring reliable performance when driving on wet surfaces.
Dry
When examining the dry performances of the Continental TrueContact Tour and the Michelin CrossClimate 2, we find a level playing field in terms of dry braking capabilities. Both tires have been rated 4/5 for their ability to stop from 60 to 0 mph. This rating indicates that both the TrueContact Tour and the CrossClimate 2 deliver robust stopping power on dry roads, with neither tire showing a significant advantage over the other in this particular aspect.
Dry Braking :
- TrueContact Tour : 4/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 4/5
MIleage
When assessing the mileage performance of the Continental TrueContact Tour against the Michelin CrossClimate 2, an interesting contrast emerges between actual tested mileage and the manufacturers’ tread life warranties. The TrueContact Tour boasts an actual tested mileage of 70,000 miles, 10,000 miles off its tread life warranty of 80,000 miles.
On the other hand, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 outperforms expectations with an impressive actual tested mileage of 95,000 miles, significantly exceeding its tread life warranty of 60,000 miles. This discrepancy indicates that while Michelin may offer a conservative warranty, the CrossClimate 2’s actual performance on the road speaks to its exceptional durability and longevity.
Comparatively, the CrossClimate 2 sets a remarkable example in the realm of high-mileage all-weather tires, demonstrating a capacity to outlast both its own warranty and the competition’s performance by a considerable margin. This makes the CrossClimate 2 an ideal choice for drivers seeking a tire that not only excels in varied weather conditions but also offers an extended lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and affirming its status as a leading option for high-mileage needs.
Actual tested mileage:
- TrueContact Tour : 70,000 miles
- CrossClimate 2 : 95,000 miles
Snow
In the realm of snow performance, the distinction between the Continental TrueContact Tour and the Michelin CrossClimate 2 becomes particularly noteworthy. The TrueContact Tour, while commendable with a snow traction rating of 4/5, demonstrates solid capabilities that align with what you’d expect from a tire bearing the M+S (Mud and Snow) logo. This indicates it’s equipped to handle light to moderate snow conditions effectively, offering reliable traction and a sense of security during winter drives.
However, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 takes snow performance to another level, boasting a perfect snow traction rating of 5/5. The CrossClimate 2 carries the 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) logo, distinguishing it as an all-weather tire specifically engineered to excel in severe snow conditions. This certification implies that the CrossClimate 2 not only meets but surpasses the industry standards for snow traction. As such, it’s no surprise that it outperforms the TrueContact Tour in snowy conditions, providing superior grip, stability, and peace of mind for drivers navigating through challenging winter landscapes.
The presence of the 3PMSF logo on the CrossClimate 2 underlines its superior performance in snow, making it an ideal choice for those who face harsh winter conditions regularly. It’s clear that the CrossClimate 2’s design and capabilities set it apart as a tire that doesn’t just meet the basic requirements for snow traction but excels, offering unparalleled performance that makes it a standout choice for drivers prioritizing safety and reliability in all weather conditions, especially snow.
Snow Traction :
- TrueContact Tour : 4/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 5/5
Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH)
When examining the Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) characteristics of the Continental TrueContact Tour and the Michelin CrossClimate 2, both tires exhibit commendable performances, albeit with slight differences that impact overall driving comfort. In terms of noise levels, both tires achieve an equal rating of 4, indicating that they are relatively quiet and manage to minimize the intrusion of road noise into the cabin. This similarity suggests that drivers can expect a tranquil ride with either tire, making both suitable for those who value a quiet driving environment.
Noise :
- TrueContact Tour : 4/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 4/5
However, a notable distinction arises when considering ride comfort. The TrueContact Tour receives a rating of 3 for ride comfort, suggesting that while it offers a reasonably smooth ride, there may be instances where the tire’s response to road irregularities could introduce a degree of discomfort. On the other hand, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 scores higher, with a ride comfort rating of 4. This indicates that the CrossClimate 2 is adept at absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride for passengers.
Ride Comfort :
- TrueContact Tour : 3/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 4/5
This difference in ride comfort can significantly affect the overall driving experience, especially on longer journeys or over less-than-ideal road surfaces. While both tires perform well in reducing noise, the Michelin CrossClimate 2’s superior ride comfort demonstrates its ability to provide not just a quieter, but also a more pleasant driving experience. Therefore, for drivers prioritizing not only silence but also the smoothness of their ride, the CrossClimate 2 emerges as the preferred option, blending low NVH levels with enhanced comfort to set a higher standard in the driving experience.
Rolling Resistance
The Continental TrueContact Tour and Michelin CrossClimate 2 vary significantly in rolling resistance, a key factor affecting fuel efficiency. The TrueContact Tour’s rolling resistance is rated at 2/5, meaning it may consume more fuel due to higher energy demands for movement. Conversely, the CrossClimate 2, with a 4/5 rating, demonstrates lower rolling resistance, offering better fuel economy and reduced environmental impact. This stark contrast highlights the CrossClimate 2 as a more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly option, making it a preferable choice for drivers prioritizing efficiency and sustainability.
Rolling Resistance :
- TrueContact Tour : 2/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 4/5
Price
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 is approximately 19% more expensive than the Continental TrueContact Tour for the tire size 235/60R17, with prices at $224 and $182, respectively. This price difference highlights the CrossClimate 2’s premium over the TrueContact Tour, reflecting its enhanced features and performance capabilities.
Tire size: 235/60R17
- TrueContact Tour: $182
- CrossClimate 2 : $224
Difference: +19% more expensive for CrossClimate 2.
Summary
As a tire expert, it’s rare to witness a clear winner in head-to-head comparisons, given the nuanced trade-offs between different tire models. However, in the case of the Continental TrueContact Tour versus the Michelin CrossClimate 2, the CrossClimate 2 emerges as a distinct victor. This superiority is attributed to its comprehensive performance across several critical areas. Notably, its exceptional all-weather capabilities, marked by superior snow traction and lower rolling resistance, set it apart.
Additionally, its impressive durability, evidenced by exceeding its tread life warranty in real-world mileage tests, further underscores its value. The CrossClimate 2 also excels in wet braking and offers enhanced ride comfort, providing a safer and more pleasant driving experience. While it does come at a higher price point, the array of benefits, including better fuel efficiency and environmental considerations, justifies the investment. In this matchup, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 unequivocally stands out, demonstrating its worth as a top-tier choice for drivers seeking unparalleled performance and reliability.
Dr Edwin Pang