Michelin Defender LTX M/S vs Michelin LTX A/T2: Get ready for the ultimate showdown between two juggernauts of the tire world: The Michelin Defender LTX M/S and the Michelin LTX A/T2. These Michelin heavyweights, renowned for their excellence and quality, are about to go head-to-head in a fierce comparison to see which one truly stands out.
First up is the Michelin Defender LTX M/S. This tire, launched back in August 2015, has earned a reputation as one of the best all-season truck tires out there. Boasting Michelin’s MaxTouch Construction technology, it provides long-lasting tread life under any condition. Its Evertread compound offers superior durability in tough weather and on rough roads. Not only is the Defender LTX M/S a match for all seasons, but its excellent fuel efficiency, low road noise, and improved tread life make it a crowd favorite.
On the other hand, we have the Michelin LTX A/T2, a tire designed to take on every terrain without batting an eyelid. Introduced in 2011, this tire is built for those who love to venture off the beaten path. Its advanced tread design and durable compound ensure great traction on gravel, mud, and rocks. Furthermore, Michelin’s Comfort Control Technology makes this all-terrain tire impressively quiet on the highway, delivering a comfortable ride without compromising off-road toughness.
The Defender LTX M/S, with its all-season dependability, goes up against the LTX A/T2, with its all-terrain grit. Both tires, with their own set of unique advantages, cater to different needs. The stage is set, the tires are ready. Which one will rise to the occasion and claim the crown in this epic duel? Stay tuned to find out in this thrilling head-to-head comparison of Michelin’s finest.
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 Defender LTX M/S vs Michelin LTX A/T2 based on the relevant performance category. The tire size of interest for the test is a 265/70R17 which is a common tire size for Jeep Wrangler & Ram 3500. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information.
Dry
Although dry conditions may not be the most challenging environment for truck and all-terrain tires, it’s essential to consider how they perform in this scenario. Let’s dive in to see how the Michelin Defender LTX M/S and the Michelin LTX A/T2 fare on dry surfaces, particularly with regards to braking.
In dry conditions, both the Defender LTX M/S and the LTX A/T2 demonstrate comparable performances. When it comes to dry braking, they both earn a solid 3 out of 5 rating.
Dry Braking :
- Defender LTX M/S : 3/5
- LTX A/T2 : 3/5
The Defender LTX M/S uses its Evertread compound, offering a sturdy grip on dry roads. This advanced compound, combined with a high-traction tread design, gives the Defender LTX M/S reliable stopping power, ensuring safety in dry weather. However, its primary design focus on all-season performance means it may not be as exceptional in dry braking compared to some specialized dry-weather tires.
The LTX A/T2, on the other hand, has an aggressive tread pattern designed to conquer all terrains. Despite its focus on off-road use, it still maintains reasonable dry braking capabilities. The tire’s independent tread blocks and high-density siping contribute to its dry traction and braking. However, much like the Defender LTX M/S, it scores a 3 out of 5 due to its broader design focus.
Remember, while dry braking is an essential aspect of tire performance, it’s not the primary consideration in the truck and all-terrain segment. Other factors like tread life, comfort, off-road capabilities, and performance in different weather conditions often play a more significant role. But it’s always good to know that whether you choose the Defender LTX M/S or the LTX A/T2, both will provide dependable braking performance on dry surfaces.
Wet
In the world of truck and all-terrain tires, wet weather performance takes on greater significance. It’s a delicate balance to strike, as the design features that aid in certain aspects may hinder others. Let’s dive into the comparison of Michelin Defender LTX M/S and Michelin LTX A/T2 in wet conditions.
Wet Braking:
- Defender LTX M/S : 2/5
- LTX A/T2 : 2/5
Both the Defender LTX M/S and the LTX A/T2 earn a score of 2 out of 5 when it comes to wet braking. The relatively lower scores can be attributed to the larger voids in their tread patterns. While these voids are great for off-road grip and hydroplaning resistance, they do reduce the contact patch area with the road, which can result in weaker braking in wet conditions.
Wet Handling :
- Defender LTX M/S : 3/5
- LTX A/T2 : 3/5
When it comes to handling on wet surfaces, both tires earn a decent 3 out of 5. The Defender LTX M/S utilizes its Evertread compound and symmetrical tread design to provide steady handling on wet roads. The LTX A/T2, with its aggressive tread pattern and independent tread blocks, ensures that the tire remains responsive and stable under wet conditions.
Hydroplaning :
- Defender LTX M/S: 4/5
- LTX A/T2 : 5/5
The large voids in these tires truly shine in resisting hydroplaning. The Defender LTX M/S achieves an impressive 4 out of 5 rating. Its lateral grooves and open shoulder slots help to channel water away from the contact area, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. However, the Michelin LTX A/T2 excels in this aspect, earning a perfect score of 5 out of 5. Its wider circumferential grooves and chunky tread blocks work exceptionally well to expel water and resist hydroplaning, providing drivers with a safer, more controlled experience when traversing wet surfaces.
In conclusion, while both tires may not have the strongest wet braking, their performances in handling and hydroplaning resistance are commendable. This characteristic combination makes them reliable companions for drivers who frequently navigate wet conditions.
Snow
Snow performance is a significant consideration for truck and all-terrain tires, as drivers often encounter snowy conditions either in winter months or during off-road expeditions. So let’s compare the performance of the Michelin Defender LTX M/S and the Michelin LTX A/T2 on snowy terrain. It’s important to note that neither of these tires carries the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, which signifies a tire’s superior performance in severe snow conditions. However, despite the lack of this symbol, both tires have demonstrated commendable performance in snowy conditions.
Snow Traction:
- Defender LTX M/S : 5/5
- LTX A/T2 : 4/5
The Defender LTX M/S shines with a perfect 5 out of 5 rating for snow traction. Its high-performance ratings could likely be attributed to a higher sipe density in its tread design & its huge void volume. Sipes, which are small slits in the tread, provide additional biting edges that grab onto snow, thus enhancing traction. This, combined with the tire’s Evertread compound and symmetrical tread pattern, provides excellent grip and control in snow. On the other hand, the LTX A/T2 scores a 4 out of 5 in snow traction. Despite being designed primarily for all-terrain performance, it holds its own in the snow. Its aggressive tread pattern and significant voids enable it to handle snowy conditions reasonably well. However, it falls just a bit short of the Defender LTX M/S in terms of traction on snowy surfaces.
In conclusion, while both tires show solid performance in snowy conditions, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S, likely thanks to its higher sipe density, delivers a slightly better performance in snow traction than the LTX A/T2.
Mileage (real actual test !)
When it comes to actual tested mileage, both the Michelin Defender LTX M/S and the Michelin LTX A/T2 exhibit impressive longevity, living up to Michelin’s reputation for quality and durability.
- Defender LTX M/S: 80,000 miles
- LTX A/T2 : 100,000 miles
The Defender LTX M/S delivered an impressive 80,000 miles in testing. Despite the substantial mileage, it’s worth noting that it fell slightly short when compared to its close competitor, the Continental TerrainContact H/T, which pulled ahead with a tested mileage of 95,000 miles. However, the Defender LTX M/S still stands strong with its overall performance in various conditions, proving to be a reliable option for all-season truck tires.
On the other hand, the Michelin LTX A/T2 truly stands out in its category with an exceptional tested mileage of 100,000 miles. This performance puts the LTX A/T2 at the top of the charts in its segment, significantly outperforming the nearest competitor, which only managed to clock 75,000 miles. The LTX A/T2 showcases Michelin’s commitment to tire longevity and demonstrates the superior durability of its all-terrain design.
In conclusion, while the Defender LTX M/S provides robust mileage results, the LTX A/T2 raises the bar with its segment-leading tested mileage, further solidifying Michelin’s legacy for delivering long-lasting, high-performing tires.
Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH)
Let’s delve into another crucial aspect of tire performance: ride comfort and noise levels. Both the Michelin Defender LTX M/S and the Michelin LTX A/T2 have shown remarkable characteristics in these areas.
Ride Comfort :
- Defender LTX M/S : 3/5
- LTX A/T2 : 3/5
When it comes to ride comfort, both tires have earned a solid 3 out of 5. The Defender LTX M/S utilizes its MaxTouch Construction to provide a balanced and comfortable ride, making it a dependable choice for any season. Similarly, despite its rugged all-terrain design, the LTX A/T2 manages to deliver comfort on the road, thanks to Michelin’s Comfort Control Technology.
Noise :
- Defender LTX M/S : 5/5
- LTX A/T2 : 3/5
Now, let’s talk noise. Buckle up because the Defender LTX M/S truly steals the show here with an astounding 5 out of 5 rating. For an all-season truck tire, this level of noise performance is nothing short of incredible. Utilizing its unique tread design and advanced compound, the Defender LTX M/S ensures a remarkably quiet ride, enhancing driver comfort significantly. Whether you’re driving on city streets or venturing on highways, the Defender LTX M/S promises a serene and peaceful journey, a feature that truly sets it apart in its category. In contrast, the LTX A/T2 secures a reasonable 3 out of 5 for noise. Given its all-terrain design, this rating is commendable, and the tire manages to keep noise levels relatively low while delivering a comfortable ride.
To sum it up, while both tires offer a decent level of ride comfort, the Defender LTX M/S leaves a significant mark with its phenomenal noise performance. For drivers valuing a quiet, peaceful ride, this tire is a dream come true, demonstrating that all-season truck tires can indeed deliver impressive noise performance. Prepare to be blown away by the remarkable tranquility the Defender LTX M/S brings to your journey!
Rolling Resistance
Now let’s turn our attention to a factor that plays a critical role in a tire’s fuel efficiency and overall performance: Rolling Resistance. Rolling Resistance refers to the energy that your vehicle has to overcome to keep your tires moving at a constant speed. Lower rolling resistance means your vehicle will consume less energy (or fuel) to keep moving, contributing to better fuel efficiency.
Rolling Resistance :
- Defender LTX M/S : 5/5
- LTX A/T2 : 4/5
In terms of rolling resistance, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S truly shines with a perfect score of 5 out of 5. This fantastic performance is, honestly, a bit surprising and leaves us wondering: what’s the secret? The secret probably lies in Michelin’s MaxTouch Construction and advanced Evertread compound. These features ensure that the tire maintains optimal contact with the road, effectively reducing rolling resistance and enhancing fuel efficiency. This, in turn, goes hand-in-hand with the tire’s impressive tested mileage of 80,000 miles, as lower rolling resistance often leads to longer tire life.
On the other hand, the Michelin LTX A/T2, designed to tackle all terrains, puts up a commendable performance with a rating of 4 out of 5. It’s worth noting that achieving such a good score in rolling resistance is not an easy feat for an all-terrain tire. The tire’s well-engineered tread pattern and compound likely contribute to this high score, ensuring that even though it’s built for rough terrains, it doesn’t compromise too much on rolling resistance.
To sum up, both the Defender LTX M/S and LTX A/T2 demonstrate impressive rolling resistance scores. However, the Defender LTX M/S edges out with its remarkable 5 out of 5 rating, truly encapsulating Michelin’s commitment to delivering high-performing, fuel-efficient tires.
Price
When selecting a tire, price is always a key consideration. The cost can be a determining factor for many buyers, depending on their budget and value for money expectations. Let’s compare the prices of our two contenders, the Michelin Defender LTX M/S and the Michelin LTX A/T2, for the tire size LT 265/70R17.
Tire size: LT 265/70R17
Defender LTX M/S: $330
LTX A/T2 : $304
Difference: -9% more cheaper for LTX A/T2.
The Defender LTX M/S comes in at a higher price point of $330 per tire. Its price reflects the quality and performance it offers, from its exceptional noise performance and lower rolling resistance to its impressive snow traction and all-season capabilities. The Defender LTX M/S offers a blend of durability, comfort, and performance that could justify its higher price for many buyers. On the other hand, the LTX A/T2 is priced at $304 per tire. Despite being less expensive, it doesn’t compromise on performance. It offers excellent mileage results, great all-terrain capabilities, decent comfort, and good rolling resistance. For those often venturing off-road or seeking a tire with longer tread life at a slightly lower price point, the LTX A/T2 provides a compelling option.
In conclusion, both tires offer excellent performance in their respective segments. Choosing between them would largely depend on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize a quiet ride, all-season performance, and lower rolling resistance, you might consider investing in the Defender LTX M/S. However, if you need an all-terrain tire with excellent mileage and good hydroplaning resistance at a slightly lower price, the LTX A/T2 could be the one for you.
Summary
As we’ve navigated through the vast landscape of tire performance and characteristics, it’s clear that both the Michelin Defender LTX M/S and the Michelin LTX A/T2 showcase commendable attributes. While they belong to different segments, with the Defender LTX M/S being an all-season truck tire and the LTX A/T2 being an all-terrain tire, their overlapping sizes create an intersection that presents a challenging choice for consumers.
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S impresses with its fantastic noise performance, offering an exceptionally quiet and comfortable ride. It also excels in snow traction and exhibits outstanding rolling resistance results, leading to better fuel efficiency. Although it falls a bit short in the tested mileage category compared to its competitor, it still provides robust mileage results, making it a strong contender for those seeking all-season truck tires.
On the other hand, the Michelin LTX A/T2 makes its mark with remarkable tread life, leading its segment with a tested mileage of 100,000 miles. Although it doesn’t match the Defender LTX M/S in terms of noise performance, it provides an impressive resistance to hydroplaning and decent comfort for an all-terrain tire. Furthermore, it performs well in snowy conditions and delivers good rolling resistance results, promising a blend of durability and all-terrain capabilities.
In conclusion, both the Michelin Defender LTX M/S and the LTX A/T2 showcase Michelin’s commitment to quality, performance, and innovation. While they cater to different segments, their overlapping sizes can pose a challenging choice for consumers. However, understanding your specific needs, whether it’s all-season versatility, exceptional noise performance, robust tread life, or all-terrain capabilities, can guide you to the tire that best fits your requirements. Regardless of your choice, you can trust that you’re getting a top-tier product from one of the world’s leading tire manufacturers.