Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax vs Michelin CrossClimate 2: The Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax and Michelin CrossClimate 2 both boast the coveted 3-peak mountain snowflake logo, proving their all-weather capabilities. But which one truly excels when conditions get harsh? In this battle of durability versus versatility, we pit the rugged EnduraMax against the refined CrossClimate 2 to see which tire reigns supreme in all-weather performance!
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Results: Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax vs Michelin CrossClimate 2
Results below were taken from the Tire Rack’s “What’s the Best Touring Tire for Premium CUVs? – 2024” test. A total of 8 tires were tested on Tire Rack’s own proving ground. The graph below shows the comparison between Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax vs Michelin CrossClimate 2 based on the relevant performance category. The Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark. Note that for subjective evaluation, we equate 1 point as 5%. Hence for example if tire A is graded 7 while tire B is graded 6, A is better than B by 5%.
As both tires are widely used in snow, Tire Rack has included snow & ice in its testing portfolio. A detailed testing on snow including acceleration, braking & handling were evaluated. The tire size of interest is a 235/55R19 which is a common tire size for Audi Q5. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Q4.
Wet
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 clearly outperforms the Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax in wet conditions. In wet braking, the CrossClimate 2 stops 20.2 feet sooner, a difference of approximately 20%. In wet handling, it completes the lap 2.19 seconds faster, marking a 6% improvement. The CrossClimate 2 demonstrates superior wet performance across both metrics.
CrossClimate 2:
- +20% in wet braking
- +6% in wet handling (lap time)
Dry
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 once again proves its superiority by stopping 6.4 feet sooner than the Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax in dry braking, representing a 8% improvement. This further solidifies the CrossClimate 2’s advantage in braking performance.
CrossClimate 2:
- +8% in dry braking
Snow
In snow braking, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 stops 4.5 feet sooner than the Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax, marking a 6% improvement. When it comes to snow acceleration, the CrossClimate 2 also takes the lead, reaching 12 mph 4.2 feet faster, which is a 20% advantage.
Regarding subjective snow handling, the CrossClimate 2 scores higher with a 5.75 rating compared to the EnduraMax’s 4.67, a difference of 5%. In snow handling lap time, the CrossClimate 2 completes the circuit 1.11 seconds faster, marking a 2% improvement.
The CrossClimate 2 demonstrates better overall snow performance, consistently outperforming the EnduraMax in braking, acceleration, subjective handling, and lap times.
CrossClimate 2:
- +6% in snow braking
- +20% in snow acceleration
- +5% in snow handling (subj)
- +2% in snow handling (lap time)
Ice
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 significantly outperforms the Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax in ice braking, stopping 8.8 feet sooner. This difference translates to a 19% improvement, highlighting the CrossClimate 2’s superior ice performance.
CrossClimate 2:
- +19% in ice braking
UTQG
Both the Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax and the Michelin CrossClimate 2 have the same UTQG tread wear rating of 640, indicating they are expected to provide similar longevity under comparable conditions. Additionally, both tires come with a 60,000-mile mileage warranty, reflecting their durability commitment from the manufacturers.
| Brand | Tireline | Size | Tread Wear | Traction | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooper | Discoverer EnduraMax | All | 640 | A | A |
| Michelin | CrossClimate 2 | All | 640 | B | A |
Price
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 is priced at $273 for the 235/55R19 size, while the Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax costs $231 for the same size. This makes the CrossClimate 2 approximately 18% more expensive.
Tire size: 235/55R19
- Discoverer EnduraMax : $ 231
- CrossClimate 2 : $ 273
Difference: +18% more expensive for CrossClimate 2.
Summary
From my perspective as a tire expert, it’s a clear win for the Michelin CrossClimate 2. Its superior wet and dry performance, combined with better snow braking, acceleration, and handling, makes it the standout choice. The CrossClimate 2 also excels in ice braking, stopping significantly sooner. While the EnduraMax is slightly cheaper, the real-world performance edge of the CrossClimate 2 justifies its higher price. In all-weather conditions, the CrossClimate 2 is simply the more well-rounded and reliable choice.
Dr Edwin Pang