Michelin CrossClimate SUV vs Michelin CrossClimate 2: The field of tire manufacturing has always been about pushing the boundaries of design, materials, and engineering to create a product that performs optimally under diverse conditions. It is within this context that the Michelin CrossClimate was born, a tire that revolutionized the all-season tire segment.
Michelin, a renowned name in the tire industry, introduced the CrossClimate in 2015, boasting the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) certification, which indicates the tire’s suitable performance in severe snow conditions. This was a groundbreaking achievement for an all-season tire, and with no competition to speak of in this niche, the CrossClimate took the market by storm. Michelin had succeeded in creating a tire that didn’t just promise, but delivered performance across all seasons, with an added capability to deal with harsh winters, thereby essentially rewriting the rules of the game.
Fast-forward to now, we have the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and the CrossClimate 2, two products that stand tall on the foundation laid by the original CrossClimate, each carving out its own distinct identity in the tire market. The Michelin CrossClimate SUV, as the name implies, is a product tailored to meet the needs of SUVs. Taking into account the different dynamics of these larger vehicles, the CrossClimate SUV offers enhanced stability, better traction and improved durability, making it the ideal choice for those who want an all-weather, all-terrain tire for their SUV.
On the other hand, the Michelin CrossClimate 2, the sequel to the original CrossClimate, aims to further refine and improve the all-season performance that made its predecessor such a runaway success. With improved tread designs and compound enhancements, the CrossClimate 2 is designed to offer even better handling, durability and fuel efficiency, pushing the boundaries of what an all-season tire can do. Without further ado, let’s put Michelin CrossClimate SUV vs Michelin CrossClimate 2 in a head to head battle to see who comes out on top !
Table of Contents
Results
Ideally, you would want a head-to-head test result to demonstrate the distinct performance differences between the two products. However, in this instance, no test results are available that compare these two products directly, due to clear segmentation. Fortunately, Consumer Report has tested both tires, allowing us to use their ratings to assess the performance of each. Please note that Consumer Report’s rating system uses a maximum score of 5, with a 5/5 rating representing the best possible achievement.
The graph above shows the comparison between Michelin CrossClimate SUV vs Michelin CrossClimate 2 based on the relevant performance category. The tire size of interest for the test for CrossClimate 2 is a 215/55R17 which is a common tire size for Honda HR-V. While the tire size of interest for CrossClimate SUV test is 245/60R18 which is a common tire size for Subaru Outback. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information.
Dry
When it comes to performance, both the CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 tires from Michelin offer exceptional characteristics, but they each excel in different aspects. Focusing on dry braking, a critical safety attribute of any tire, we see slight differences between the two models.
Dry Braking :
- CrossClimate SUV : 5/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 4/5
The CrossClimate SUV scores an impressive 5 out of 5. Designed specifically with SUVs in mind, these tires provide excellent grip and braking power on dry surfaces. This performance can be attributed to its specially engineered tread patterns and rubber compounds, which aim to maximize surface contact and reduce braking distance. On the other hand, the CrossClimate 2 registers a score of 4 out of 5 in dry braking. While still demonstrating a commendable performance, it doesn’t quite match up to the SUV model’s dry braking capabilities. However, it’s worth noting that a score of 4 out of 5 is still a very good rating, demonstrating reliable braking performance on dry roads.
In essence, while both the CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 offer solid dry braking performances, the CrossClimate SUV has a slight edge in this specific aspect. However, choosing between these two tires will also depend on various other factors such as wet performance, snow performance, tread life, and of course, the type of vehicle they’ll be used on.
Wet
In the realm of wet performance, the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 both exhibit strong characteristics, showcasing Michelin’s focus on safety and control under challenging conditions.
Wet Braking:
- CrossClimate SUV : 4/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 4/5
Looking at wet braking first, both the CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 score an impressive 4 out of 5. This means that they both offer reliable stopping power on wet surfaces, ensuring safety when sudden braking is required. The advanced tread designs and rubber compounds used in both these tires help to quickly channel water away from the contact patch, increasing grip and reducing the chances of aquaplaning.
Wet Handling :
- CrossClimate SUV : 4/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 4/5
Next, wet handling, an equally important aspect, also sees both the CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 perform admirably with scores of 4 out of 5. This suggests that these tires offer responsive handling and maintain good road contact even in wet conditions, which is crucial for maintaining control of the vehicle in rain.
Hydroplaning :
- CrossClimate SUV: 4/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 5/5
However, when it comes to hydroplaning resistance, the CrossClimate 2 edges ahead with a score of 5 out of 5, compared to the 4 out of 5 achieved by the CrossClimate SUV. This indicates that the CrossClimate 2 provides superior resistance to hydroplaning, which occurs when a layer of water builds between the tires of the vehicle and the road surface, leading to a loss of traction. The superior performance of the CrossClimate 2 in this respect can be attributed to its refined tread design, which efficiently disperses water and maintains better contact with the road surface.
In conclusion, both the CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 provide excellent wet performance, demonstrating strong braking and handling characteristics. The CrossClimate 2, however, shines slightly brighter in terms of hydroplaning resistance, indicating an enhanced level of safety and control in severe wet conditions.
Snow
When it comes to handling challenging snowy conditions, both the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and the CrossClimate 2 excel, with both tires scoring an exceptional 5 out of 5 in snow traction.
Snow Traction:
- CrossClimate SUV : 5/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 5/5
The snow traction performance is an indication of how well a tire can grip and maintain control in snow-covered conditions. With their top scores, the CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 demonstrate an outstanding ability to deliver dependable traction, offering a secure and controlled driving experience even on snow-laden roads. This level of performance is a result of Michelin’s innovative approach to tire design and its commitment to all-season versatility. One of the standout features of the CrossClimate series is the inclusion of the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. This symbol signifies that the tire has been tested and meets the required performance criteria in snow testing, making it suitable for severe snow conditions.
It’s important to note that Michelin was the pioneer of introducing this symbol with the original CrossClimate, the first-ever all-season tire to achieve this certification. The tradition has continued with the CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2, further cementing Michelin’s leadership in all-season tire technology. In summary, the CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 provide top-tier snow performance, offering drivers confidence and safety when tackling snowy conditions. This performance, combined with the 3PMSF symbol, is a testament to Michelin’s commitment to delivering tires capable of providing superior performance in all weather conditions.
Mileage (real actual test !)
The mileage results of the CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 tires present a striking contrast. The CrossClimate SUV is tested to provide a tread life of about 40,000 miles, while the CrossClimate 2 dramatically outperforms it with an impressive 85,000 miles.
- CrossClimate SUV: 40,000 miles
- CrossClimate 2 : 85,000 miles
A primary reason for this substantial difference can indeed be attributed to the load index of the tires and the weight of the vehicles they are designed for. The CrossClimate SUV, being tailored for heavier SUV vehicles, is subjected to higher stresses due to the increased load. This additional pressure on the tire tends to accelerate tread wear, reducing the overall lifespan of the tire.
However, the difference in mileage is too great to be explained solely by the load index and vehicle weight. Another major factor is likely the different compound attributes of the two tires. The formulation of the rubber compound is a key determinant of a tire’s durability and lifespan. The Michelin CrossClimate 2’s compound may have been engineered with more durable materials or a specific formulation designed to resist wear, thereby significantly extending the tire’s life.
Michelin has not publicly revealed the specific details of the compounds used in these two tires, so we can only infer based on their performance. Nevertheless, the stark difference in their mileage results signifies a clear distinction in the tread wear resistance between the CrossClimate SUV and the CrossClimate 2. Therefore, while the CrossClimate SUV provides excellent all-season performance for heavier vehicles, the CrossClimate 2 offers superior tread life, making it a more cost-effective choice in the long run for drivers who cover significant distances.
Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH)
When it comes to ride comfort and noise levels, both the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 hold their ground firmly with impressive scores of 4 out of 5 in both categories.
Ride Comfort :
- CrossClimate SUV : 4/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 4/5
Ride comfort is a crucial aspect that impacts the overall driving experience, and with a score of 4 out of 5, both the CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. The sophisticated design and materials used in these tires contribute to their ability to absorb road imperfections, ensuring the vibrations are minimized, leading to an enhanced comfortable driving experience.
Noise :
- CrossClimate SUV : 4/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 4/5
Similarly, with noise levels, both tires achieve a score of 4 out of 5, demonstrating their ability to reduce road noise effectively. The particular tread design and the rubber compounds used in these tires are likely to contribute to this, providing a quieter ride by minimizing the tire noise generated at high speeds.
It’s noteworthy that both these Michelin tires are achieving such high scores in comfort and noise reduction. In comparison, the Goodyear Assurance ComfortDrive, despite having ‘comfort’ in its name, only scores a 3 out of 5 in ride comfort and noise. This highlights the advanced technology and engineering that Michelin has put into the CrossClimate series, ensuring that they not only deliver on performance but also offer a high level of comfort and quietness.
This comparison underscores Michelin’s commitment to providing a holistic driving experience, incorporating aspects of safety, performance, and comfort. Despite the demanding nature of all-season driving, the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 continue to impress with their balanced performance across various parameters.
Rolling Resistance
Rolling resistance is a critical factor when considering tire performance, as it impacts both fuel efficiency and the overall energy efficiency of a vehicle. A tire with lower rolling resistance requires less energy to roll, which can translate into fuel savings and lower carbon emissions.
Rolling Resistance :
- CrossClimate SUV : 4/5
- CrossClimate 2 : 2/5
The Michelin CrossClimate SUV scores an impressive 4 out of 5 in this category. This high score suggests that the CrossClimate SUV has been designed to balance its all-weather capabilities with high energy efficiency, thus reducing rolling resistance and contributing to improved fuel economy. On the other hand, the CrossClimate 2 scores lower, with a rating of 2 out of 5. Despite its superior tread life and hydroplaning resistance, it falls short in this particular aspect, suggesting higher rolling resistance and potentially lower fuel efficiency.
The difference in these scores could be attributed, in part, to the different sizes of these tires. Tire size can affect rolling resistance, and in general, larger tires tend to have lower rolling resistance due to their decreased deformation under load, which results in less energy loss. The CrossClimate SUV, typically being a larger tire designed for bigger vehicles, may have an advantage in this respect. However, tire size is just one of many factors that influence rolling resistance. Tread pattern, internal construction, and most importantly, the rubber compound used in the tire, all play crucial roles in determining a tire’s rolling resistance.
These results underscore how different design choices made in service of specific performance attributes can impact other aspects of tire performance. While the CrossClimate 2 appears to prioritize longevity and hydroplaning resistance, the CrossClimate SUV achieves a better balance of performance and efficiency, as evidenced by its superior rolling resistance rating.
Price
When considering the cost of tires, we find a noticeable difference between the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and the CrossClimate 2 for the 235/60R18 size.
Tire size: 235/60R18
CrossClimate SUV: $278
CrossClimate 2 : $250
Difference: -11% more cheaper for CrossClimate 2.
The CrossClimate SUV is priced at $278 per tire. Given its specialized design and superior performance characteristics tailored for SUVs, this price point reflects the quality and capabilities it brings to the table. However, the CrossClimate 2 comes in at a lower price of $250 per tire, making it 11% cheaper than the CrossClimate SUV. This lower cost does not reflect any compromise in quality, but rather the different focuses of the two tires. The CrossClimate 2, with its impressive tread life and strong all-round performance, offers excellent value for money.
Ultimately, the choice between the CrossClimate SUV and the CrossClimate 2 should be based on your specific needs. If you’re driving an SUV and are seeking superior performance characteristics under heavy load conditions, the CrossClimate SUV would be a worthwhile investment. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a tire that offers great all-season performance and longevity at a more affordable price, the CrossClimate 2 is an excellent choice. In either case, both tires are a testament to Michelin’s dedication to quality, performance, and innovation, offering drivers a range of options to meet their specific driving needs and budget.
Summary
In summary, the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and CrossClimate 2 are both highly capable all-season tires, but each brings its own unique strengths to the table. In terms of dry braking, the CrossClimate SUV has the edge with a perfect score of 5 out of 5, compared to the CrossClimate 2’s still respectable 4 out of 5. When it comes to wet braking, wet handling, and ride comfort, both tires show an equal strong performance with scores of 4 out of 5. However, the CrossClimate 2 takes the lead in hydroplaning resistance, scoring a perfect 5 out of 5, implying better safety in severe wet conditions.
The stark contrast between the two lies in their mileage results. The CrossClimate SUV is tested to last for around 40,000 miles, while the CrossClimate 2 dramatically extends its lifespan to a whopping 85,000 miles. This significant difference can be attributed to the differing load indices and the distinct rubber compounds used in the two tires. Regarding noise reduction, both tires perform impressively with a score of 4 out of 5. These scores outshine competitors such as the Goodyear Assurance ComfortDrive, which only managed a score of 3 out of 5 in comfort and noise, despite its ‘comfort’ oriented branding. Lastly, in terms of pricing for the 235/60R18 size, the CrossClimate 2 is 11% cheaper than the CrossClimate SUV, providing excellent value considering its all-round performance and superior tread life.
Ultimately, the choice between the Michelin CrossClimate SUV and the CrossClimate 2 depends on individual needs. If you prioritize superior performance for an SUV under heavy loads, the CrossClimate SUV might be worth the investment. However, for long-lasting performance across all seasons at a more affordable price point, the CrossClimate 2 is an excellent contender. Both tires, however, stand as testament to Michelin’s commitment to quality, innovation, and versatility in meeting a wide array of driving conditions.