Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Firestone WeatherGrip: The Michelin CrossClimate 2 has long been regarded as the all-time best all-weather tire, dominating with its exceptional performance across seasons. On the other side, Firestone WeatherGrip represents Bridgestone’s second-tier brand, bringing solid all-weather capabilities at a more affordable price. This clash pits Michelin’s flagship against a formidable contender in the growing all-weather segment – can the budget-friendly Firestone challenge the reigning champion? Let’s find out!
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Results: Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Firestone WeatherGrip
Results below were taken from Canadian Tire’s Road Rated test with a total of 10 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Firestone WeatherGrip based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Canadian Tire’s road-rated test consolidates all performance aspects—wet, dry, comfort, fuel economy, ice, and snow—into a single score for each category. While this approach provides a solid overall assessment, it does not isolate specific metrics like braking distance. However, the combined score still offers a reliable approximation of a tire’s performance across various conditions.
Wet
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 outperforms the Firestone WeatherGrip in wet conditions by 11%. This difference is noticeable in areas like hydroplaning resistance, wet braking, lateral grip, and overall handling. The CrossClimate 2 consistently delivers stronger wet performance, offering more confidence and control on wet asphalt compared to the WeatherGrip.
WeatherGrip :
- -11% in wet
Snow
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 edges out the Firestone WeatherGrip in snow performance by just 1%. While the difference is minimal, the CrossClimate 2 maintains a slight advantage in acceleration, traction, braking, and overall handling on snow-packed surfaces. Both tires perform closely, but the Michelin offers a touch more confidence in snowy conditions.
WeatherGrip :
- -1% in snow
Ice
The Firestone WeatherGrip slightly outperforms the Michelin CrossClimate 2 on ice by 1%. This small advantage shows up in braking distance, where the WeatherGrip provides marginally better grip on icy surfaces. Although the difference is minor, the Firestone offers a slight edge in icy conditions.
WeatherGrip :
- +1% in ice
Dry
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 outperforms the Firestone WeatherGrip in dry conditions by 8%. This difference is evident in braking, cornering, emergency lane changes, and overall handling. The CrossClimate 2 provides better grip and stability on dry asphalt, giving it a noticeable advantage over the WeatherGrip in dry performance.
WeatherGrip :
- -8% in dry braking
Comfort
The Firestone WeatherGrip surpasses the Michelin CrossClimate 2 in comfort by 4%. This improvement is reflected in lower cabin noise and smoother ride quality over various surfaces. The WeatherGrip provides a quieter and more comfortable driving experience compared to the CrossClimate 2.
WeatherGrip :
- +4% in comfort
Rolling Resistance
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 has a slight 1% advantage over the Firestone WeatherGrip in fuel economy. This indicates that the CrossClimate 2 generates marginally less rolling resistance, which can contribute to slightly better fuel efficiency or EV range. The difference is minimal, but the Michelin tire offers a small edge in this area.
WeatherGrip :
- -1% in fuel economy
Price
The Firestone WeatherGrip is 17% cheaper than the Michelin CrossClimate 2 for the 225/60R18 size, with the WeatherGrip priced at $195 compared to the CrossClimate 2 at $228.
Tire size: 225/60R18
- CrossClimate 2 : $ 228
Difference: -17% more cheaper for Altimax 365 AW
Conclusion
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 excels in wet and dry performance, making it the safer, more capable all-weather tire. It also leads slightly in fuel economy. The Firestone WeatherGrip offers better comfort, and a quieter ride – all at a significantly lower price. If performance is key, the CrossClimate 2 is the best choice. For value and comfort, the WeatherGrip stands out.
Dr Edwin Pang