Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive: The battle for all-weather supremacy just got interesting! Pirelli has entered the ring with the all-new Scorpion WeatherActive, launched in 2024, aiming to dethrone the long-reigning Michelin CrossClimate 2—widely regarded as the undisputed champion of all-weather tires.
With Michelin’s proven dominance in dry, wet, and snow performance, can Pirelli’s latest innovation bring a real challenge? Does the new contender have what it takes to shake up the segment? Let’s find out which tire truly reigns supreme!
Table of Contents
Results: Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive
Results below were taken from the Tyre Review’s “The 7 BEST All Weather Tires Tested” Test. A total of 7 tires were tested this time around with an intriguing studless winter refence to gauge the all season performances. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive 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 weather tires with a 3 peak mountain logo on it, an extensive snow & ice testing was conducted. Note that for subjective comfort evaluation, we equate 1 point as 5%. The tire size of interest is a 225/65R17 which is a common tire size for Honda CRV and Mazda CX-5. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle of choice is a Toyota Rav 4.
Wet
In wet braking, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 stops 1.9 feet (0.58 meters) longer than the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive, giving Pirelli a 2% advantage in stopping power on wet surfaces. In wet handling, the Scorpion WeatherActive is 0.17 seconds faster around the course than the CrossClimate 2, but this results in only a negligible advantage. However, subjective wet handling ratings are tied, with both scoring 9.5 points, indicating equal driver confidence.
When it comes to straight-line aquaplaning, the CrossClimate 2 resists hydroplaning 2.2 mph (3.6 km/h) better than the Scorpion WeatherActive, giving Michelin a 4% advantage in deep-water stability. This battle is tight—Pirelli takes the edge in braking and handling, but Michelin fights back with superior aquaplaning resistance!
Scorpion WeatherActive :
- +2% in wet braking
- ~0% in wet handling (lap time)
- 0% in subjective wet handling
- -4% in straight aquaplaning
Snow
In snow braking, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 stops 1.3 feet (0.39 meters) shorter than the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive, giving Michelin a 2% advantage in stopping power on snow-covered surfaces. In snow traction, the CrossClimate 2 accelerates 0.04 seconds quicker than the Scorpion WeatherActive, resulting in a 1% advantage in pulling force on snow.
For snow handling, the CrossClimate 2 completes the course 1.55 seconds faster than the Scorpion WeatherActive, translating to a 2% advantage in lap times, showcasing its better overall control in snowy conditions. In subjective snow handling, drivers rated the CrossClimate 2 at 9.5 points, while the Scorpion WeatherActive scored 9 points, reflecting Michelin’s superior confidence and precision in snow-covered turns.
This winter showdown leans in Michelin’s favor—faster stops, stronger traction, and better handling make the CrossClimate 2 the snow king!
Scorpion WeatherActive :
- -2% in snow braking
- -1% in snow traction
- -2% in snow handling (lap time)
- -2.5% in subjective snow handling
Ice
In ice braking, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 stops 1 foot (0.3 meters) shorter than the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive, giving Michelin a 3% advantage in stopping power on icy surfaces. However, in ice traction, the Scorpion WeatherActive accelerates 0.4 seconds quicker than the CrossClimate 2, translating to a 4% advantage in pulling force on ice. This icy battle is a trade-off—Michelin stops sooner, but Pirelli launches faster!
Scorpion WeatherActive :
- -3% in ice braking
- +4% in ice traction
Dry
In dry braking, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 stops 11.6 feet (3.53 meters) shorter than the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive, giving Michelin a 9% advantage in stopping power on dry pavement. However, in dry handling, the Scorpion WeatherActive is 0.56 seconds faster around the course than the CrossClimate 2, translating to a 1% advantage in lap times. Despite this, subjective dry handling ratings are tied, with both tires scoring 9.75 points, indicating equal driver confidence.
This dry battle is evenly matched—Michelin dominates braking, but Pirelli delivers a quicker lap!
Scorpion WeatherActive :
- -9% in dry braking
- +1% in dry handling (lap time)
- 0% in subjective dry handling
Noise & Comfort
In subjective comfort, the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive scores 9.5 points, 1 point higher than the Michelin CrossClimate 2, giving Pirelli a 5% advantage in ride comfort. In subjective noise, the Scorpion WeatherActive also leads, scoring 10 points compared to the CrossClimate 2’s 9 points, translating to a 5% advantage in perceived quietness.
For exterior noise, the Scorpion WeatherActive registers 70.3 dB, which is 1.7 dB quieter than the CrossClimate 2’s 72 dB, reinforcing its edge in reducing road noise. This battle is clear—Pirelli takes a strong win in comfort and noise, offering a quieter and smoother ride!
Scorpion WeatherActive :
- +5% in subjective comfort
- +5% in subjective noise
- +2% in exterior noise (-1.7 dB)
Rolling Resistance
In rolling resistance, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 registers 7.05 N/kN, which is 9% lower than the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive’s 7.78 N/kN, giving Michelin a clear efficiency advantage.
Scorpion WeatherActive :
- -9% in rolling resistance
Price
In price, the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive costs $21 less than the Michelin CrossClimate 2 in 225/65R17, making it 11% more affordable.
Tire size: 225/65R17
- CrossClimate 2 : $ 220
- Scorpion WeatherActive : $ 199
Difference: -11% more cheaper for Scorpion WeatherActive.
Conclusion
As a tire expert, I see a clear battle between two strong contenders. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 stands out with superior aquaplaning resistance, better snow and ice braking, stronger rolling resistance efficiency, and significantly shorter dry braking distances. It’s the better choice for those prioritizing safety, winter capability, and fuel efficiency.
On the other hand, the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive fights back with better wet and dry handling, superior ice traction, a smoother and quieter ride, and a more affordable price. If comfort, road noise, and overall driving feel matter more, Pirelli makes a strong case
Dr Edwin Pang