Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Hankook iON FlexClimate: Previously, we covered the manufacturer-backed test results of the new Hankook iON FlexClimate, branded as an EV-specific all-season tire. But now, we finally have a fully independent comparison — and it’s time to see how it stacks up against what many consider the best all-season tire in the world: the Michelin CrossClimate 2. It’s the EV specialist versus the reigning champion — let the battle begin!
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Results: Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Hankook iON FlexClimate
Results below were taken from the 2025 Auto Bild EV All Season Tire Test with a total of 3 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Hankook iON FlexClimate based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 tire was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
It’s important to note that for subjective tests, the evaluation was based on average lap speed which is commonly used in magazine tests. The tire size of interest is a 245/45R19 which is a common tire size for Tesla Model S. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle of choice is a Hyundai ioniq 6.
Wet
In wet braking from 100 to 0 km/h, the Hankook iON FlexClimate stopped in 39.1 meters, while the Michelin CrossClimate 2 needed 40.3 meters — a 1.2-meter advantage for Hankook, or 3% shorter braking distance. In wet handling, the Hankook averaged 74.6 km/h compared to Michelin’s 71.4 km/h, making it 3.2 km/h faster, or 4% quicker around the wet course. When it comes to straight-line aquaplaning, the Hankook started slipping at 86 km/h, whereas the Michelin began at 80.9 km/h — a 5.1 km/h advantage or 6% higher aquaplaning resistance for Hankook.
Overall, the Hankook iON FlexClimate clearly dominates wet performance, beating the Michelin in every key category — braking, handling, and aquaplaning.
iON FlexClimate :
- +3% in wet braking
- +4% in wet handling
- +6% in aquaplaning
Snow
In snow braking from 50 to 0 km/h, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 stopped in 32.0 meters, beating the Hankook iON FlexClimate’s 33.1 meters by 1.1 meters — a 3% shorter braking distance. For snow traction from 0 to 40 km/h, Michelin again leads with 6.2 seconds versus Hankook’s 6.5 seconds, a 0.3-second or 5% quicker launch. In snow handling, Michelin maintained a higher average lap speed of 54.5 km/h compared to Hankook’s 53.8 km/h — a 0.7 km/h or 1% advantage.
Overall, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 dominates across all snow categories — braking, traction, and handling — proving its winter credentials even against a modern EV-specific challenger.
iON FlexClimate :
- -3% in snow braking
- -5% in snow traction
- -1% in snow handling
Mileage
Mileage wasn’t tested in this round, but based on past results across multiple independent tests, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 consistently ranks in the top three for tread life. While there’s often a trade-off between wet grip and longevity, and the Hankook impressed in wet performance, we still expect Michelin to dominate in mileage — a category where it has repeatedly proven its long-distance endurance.
Dry
In dry braking from 100 to 0 km/h, the Hankook iON FlexClimate stopped in 39.0 meters, outperforming the Michelin CrossClimate 2 which took 40.3 meters — a 1.3-meter or 3% shorter stopping distance. In dry handling, the Hankook also came out ahead with an average lap speed of 110.1 km/h compared to Michelin’s 107 km/h, making it 3.1 km/h or 3% faster.
iON FlexClimate :
- +3% in dry braking
- +3% in dry handling
Rolling Resistance
In rolling resistance, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 registered a value of 7.03 N/kN, slightly lower than the Hankook iON FlexClimate’s 7.1 N/kN — a difference of 0.07 N/kN or about 1% better efficiency for Michelin.
iON FlexClimate :
- -1% in rolling resistance
Price
For the 245/45R19 size, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 is priced at €235, while the Hankook iON FlexClimate comes in at €229 — just €6 cheaper, or roughly 3% less. It’s a surprise to see Hankook pricing its EV-specific tire so close to Michelin’s benchmark all-season, showing real confidence in its performance.
Tire size: 245/45R19
- CrossClimate 2 : € 235
- iON FlexClimate : € 229
Difference: -3% more cheaper for iON FlexClimate
Conclusion
As a tire expert, I’m genuinely impressed by how close this battle turned out. The Hankook iON FlexClimate clearly excels in wet and dry conditions, showing superior grip and handling — especially impressive for an EV-specific tire. Meanwhile, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 holds its ground with stronger snow performance and slightly better rolling resistance. While mileage wasn’t tested in this round, based on past results, I’d still expect the Michelin to lead in long-term durability. Both tires are excellent, but your choice really depends on whether wet grip or winter capability matters more to you.
Dr Edwin Pang