Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Kleber Quadraxer 3: A Sibling Rivalry on Rubber –>The tire industry has been privy to many iconic rivalries over the years, but none quite as fascinating as the battle between the Michelin CrossClimate 2 and the Kleber Quadraxer 3. To the untrained eye, this might look like a simple competition between two premium tires. But, delve a bit deeper, and you’ll find a sibling rivalry fueled by a rich history.
Kleber, a name synonymous with quality in the tire world, wasn’t always under the umbrella of the Michelin family. Founded in the 1910s, Kleber rapidly made a mark in the industry with its innovative solutions and top-tier products. However, come the 1980s, Michelin, always the titan of tire manufacturing, saw potential in this promising brand and decided to acquire it. Thus, what was once a competition turned into kinship, as Kleber became a part of Michelin’s quality brands.
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 is the epitome of Michelin’s commitment to excellence: a tire that’s versatile, durable, and engineered to tackle various climatic conditions. On the other side, we have the Kleber Quadraxer 3, a testament to Kleber’s tradition of innovation, offering grip and safety in diverse terrains and temperatures.
Now, as the tarmac heats up, we see these two titans — or should we say siblings — clash. Both backed by the prowess of the Michelin family, the CrossClimate 2 and the Quadraxer 3 are set to redefine the standards of all-season tires. Buckle up and watch closely, for this is not just a competition between two tires but a duel between legacy and innovation!
Table of Contents
Results: Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Kleber Quadraxer 3
Results below were taken from the 2023 Tyre Reviews All Season Tyre Test. A total of 12 tires were tested this time around with an intriguing winter & summer refence to gauge the all season performances. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Kleber Quadraxer 3 based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
As both tires are categorized as all season tires with a 3 peak mountain logo on it, an extensive snow testing was conducted. However ice testing was left out which was quite disappointing to our dismay. Note that for subjective comfort evaluation, we equate 1 point as 5%. The tire size of interest is a 195/65 R15 which is a common tire size for Toyota Corolla Altis and Volkswagen Beetle. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle of choice is a Volkswagen Golf.
Wet
The interaction between the tire tread and the road takes a drastic turn when presented with water-logged conditions. The reduced grip on wet terrains is not only palpable but also quantifiable, enhancing the risk factor considerably. Recognizing the gravity of this safety concern, the EU label rightly incorporates wet braking in its evaluation trinity.
Astoundingly, the Michelin CrossClimate 2, previously hailed as the epitome of all-season wet prowess, found a worthy contender in the Kleber Quadraxer 3. Quadraxer 3 manifested an impressive performance edge, particularly evident in its wet braking capabilities where it pulled to a stop 0.34 meters earlier than the CrossClimate 2. This divergence became even more pronounced in wet handling lap times, with the Quadraxer 3 trailing just a breath behind, with a minuscule 0.01-second difference.
However, when assessing aquaplaning metrics, CrossClimate 2 showcased a better resistance with a slipping speed of 94 km/h, outpacing the Quadraxer 3’s 92.1 km/h. Despite this, the minute differences in their performances indicate the top-tier engineering behind both tires. Yet, when stacking the results, the Quadraxer 3 emerged as a noteworthy competitor, holding its ground in many aspects and surpassing the once uncontested Michelin CrossClimate 2 in wet braking. In the realm of wet performances, Kleber Quadraxer 3 certainly etched its mark, echoing its prowess across the parameters.
Quadraxer 3 :
- +1% in wet braking
- ~0% in wet handling (lap time)
- -1% in wet handling (subj)
- -2% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
While the dynamic between the tire tread and asphalt remains fundamentally unaltered in dry conditions, the nuances of performance still remain critical for evaluating safety and drivability. The EU label emphasizes the importance of this balance in various conditions, yet dry performance has its own significant weightage in real-world applications.
Remarkably, Michelin CrossClimate 2, often celebrated as the “Dry King”, faced fierce competition from its own kin, the Kleber Quadraxer 3. In the sphere of dry braking, the CrossClimate 2 reigned supreme, halting at 38.25 meters, but the Quadraxer 3 was hot on its heels, coming to a standstill at 38.58 meters. This minimal gap of just 0.33 meters speaks volumes about the Quadraxer 3’s capabilities in challenging the monarch of dry terrain.
This contention was further accentuated in dry handling lap times. The CrossClimate 2, while maintaining its crown, clocked a time of 76.1 seconds, with the Quadraxer 3 nipping closely with a time of 76.6 seconds. Such slender margins underscore the intricate engineering and design considerations poured into both tires.
On the subjective front of dry handling, CrossClimate 2 bagged an impressive 9.5 out of 10 points. Yet again, the Quadraxer 3 remained relentless in its pursuit, scoring a commendable 9.2 points. This subtle differential reiterates the excellence both these tires bring to the table.
In summation, while the Michelin CrossClimate 2 continues to wear the crown of dry performance, the Kleber Quadraxer 3 is undoubtedly a contender to watch, challenging the throne with compelling results. In the theater of dry metrics, the Quadraxer 3’s close trail of the CrossClimate 2 reaffirms its exceptional design and capability.
Quadraxer 3 :
- -1% in dry braking
- -1% in dry handling (lap time)
- -1.5% in dry handling (subj)
Snow
Snow-covered terrains pose one of the most demanding challenges for tires, where the relationship between the tire tread and the icy, treacherous road transforms radically. The efficacy in such conditions is not only perceptible to the driver but also critically instrumental in ensuring safety. Hence, performance in snowy conditions is a metric of paramount importance, deserving a meticulous examination.
In the arena of snow, the Michelin CrossClimate 2, with its well-established prowess, encountered an unexpected challenger in the Kleber Quadraxer 3. Analyzing the snow braking metrics, the CrossClimate 2 showcased its supremacy by halting at a commendable 18.21 meters. However, the Quadraxer 3, with its braking distance of 19.05 meters, wasn’t too far behind, marking its assertive presence against the benchmark set by its counterpart.
Snow traction measurements further illustrated this riveting contest. While the CrossClimate 2 demonstrated its capabilities by registering a time of 5.57 seconds, the Quadraxer 3 was almost in parallel, clocking a slightly longer 5.71 seconds. Such minuscule differences mirror the intense competition and highlight the prowess both contenders bring to snowy landscapes.
However, it’s in the realm of snow handling lap times that the Quadraxer 3 truly stunned. Clocking a time of 84.22 seconds, it edged past the CrossClimate 2’s 84.23 seconds, albeit by the slimmest margin imaginable. This neck-to-neck performance was further reflected in subjective snow handling evaluations, where both titans earned a perfect score of 10 points.
Drawing a conclusion from these frosty face-offs, while the Michelin CrossClimate 2 maintains its esteemed reputation in snow conditions, the Kleber Quadraxer 3 has emerged as a genuine surprise, showcasing its mettle particularly in snow handling. The Quadraxer 3 not only stands its ground but also hints at an impending paradigm shift in the snowy performance spectrum.
Quadraxer 3 :
- -4% in snow braking
- -2% in snow traction
- ~0% in snow handling (lap times)
- 0% in snow handling (subj)
Comfort
Comfort is essential in driving, transcending mere metrics to include tactile and auditory feelings. The Michelin CrossClimate 2, with its blend of performance and luxury, scored 9.8 points, reflecting its quality ride experience. Meanwhile, the Kleber Quadraxer 3 achieved a perfect 10, showcasing its superior ability to minimize road imperfections and cabin noise. In essence, while both tires provide high comfort levels, the Quadraxer 3 slightly outperforms, emphasizing its dedication to top-tier driving comfort.
Quadraxer 3 :
- +1% in subjective comfort
Rolling Resistance
In today’s era, where sustainability is more than just a buzzword and global efforts are converging towards achieving carbon neutrality, the significance of rolling resistance in tires cannot be overstated. Simply put, rolling resistance refers to the force resisting the motion when a tire rolls on a surface. A lower rolling resistance not only translates to better fuel efficiency for conventional vehicles but also directly impacts the range of electric vehicles (EVs). As the world pivots towards a greener future and EVs continue their ascendancy, the role of rolling resistance in determining a vehicle’s efficiency and carbon footprint becomes paramount.
Against this backdrop, let’s delve into the comparative analysis of the Michelin CrossClimate 2 and the Kleber Quadraxer 3.
Michelin CrossClimate 2: Clocking in with a rolling resistance of 7.69 N/kN, this tire underscores Michelin’s commitment to enhancing vehicular efficiency. A value this low is indicative of a tire designed to optimize energy consumption, thereby helping in extending the driving range of EVs and reducing fuel consumption in traditional vehicles.
Kleber Quadraxer 3: While it reports a slightly higher value of 8.09 N/kN, the Quadraxer 3 is still within the competitive spectrum of low rolling resistance tires. This indicates its potential to contribute positively to sustainability goals and EV efficiency, albeit not as impressively as its Michelin counterpart.
In conclusion, as we navigate the pathways to a sustainable future, components like tires play an unexpected yet crucial role. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 stands out in this respect, reinforcing the brand’s drive towards supporting a carbon-neutral future. However, the Kleber Quadraxer 3, despite being a notch higher in rolling resistance, still showcases its commitment to the green cause. In the grand mosaic of sustainability, every bit counts, and both these tires demonstrate an earnest effort towards that shared global objective.
Quadraxer 3 :
- -5% in rolling resistance
Price
In the diverse tapestry of the automotive world, pricing often serves as a compelling narrative. While technical specifications and performance metrics undeniably influence purchasing decisions, the price tag remains a decisive factor for many, striking a balance between quality and affordability. This balance becomes even more intriguing when two products, hailing from the same corporate lineage, showcase a significant difference in their price points.
Tire size: 205/55 R16
- CrossClimate 2: €96
- Quadraxer 3 : €71
Difference: -35% more cheaper for Quadraxer 3.
Michelin CrossClimate 2: Priced at €96, this tire sits comfortably in the premium segment. Its cost reflects the brand’s promise of superior engineering, state-of-the-art technology, and a legacy of trust. For many, the CrossClimate 2 embodies the zenith of tire innovation, warranting its premium price tag.
Kleber Quadraxer 3: Here’s where the magic truly lies. Priced at a significantly more affordable €71, the Quadraxer 3 is a staggering 35% cheaper than its illustrious counterpart. What makes this price point all the more captivating is Kleber’s positioning in the market. Historically marketed as a quality brand under Michelin’s umbrella, the Quadraxer 3 offers an impressive blend of performance and value. This combination crafts a narrative where quality meets affordability, making the Quadraxer 3 an enticing proposition for the discerning yet budget-conscious consumer.
In essence, while the Michelin CrossClimate 2 commands its premium through a blend of legacy and technical prowess, the Kleber Quadraxer 3 wields its own brand of magic: delivering commendable quality at a price that’s remarkably lighter on the wallet. In the grand theatre of tire economics, this difference illuminates the diverse choices available to consumers, each with its unique allure.
Summary
Having spent years in the intricate world of tire engineering, I’ve come to appreciate the nuances and subtleties that go into crafting the perfect tire. Each design, tread pattern, and compound tells a story of countless hours of research, testing, and innovation.
From a pure performance standpoint, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 stands out. Its engineering is a testament to Michelin’s commitment to excellence and its legacy in the tire industry. Across various metrics and conditions, it consistently performs at or near the top, solidifying its position as the number one all-season tire in this comparison.
However, engineering isn’t just about creating the best product—it’s also about understanding value and user needs. This is where the Kleber Quadraxer 3 makes a compelling argument. At 35% cheaper than the CrossClimate 2, it offers a remarkably close performance profile. The marginal differences in results, when juxtaposed with the significant price gap, underscore a fantastic value proposition.
In conclusion, if the question were purely about the pinnacle of all-season tire performance, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 would undoubtedly take the crown. But, as an engineer who deeply understands the balance between quality and cost, I can’t help but recommend the Kleber Quadraxer 3 to users. Its fusion of affordability with near-premium performance makes it a choice hard to overlook, especially for those seeking great value without significant compromises.
Dr Edwin Pang