Michelin X Ice Snow SUV vs Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3: In the high-stakes world of SUV Nordic/studless winter tires, two names tower above the rest: Michelin’s X Ice Snow SUV and Bridgestone’s Blizzak DM V3. Each championing its distinct prowess, they are the crème de la crème in delivering optimal winter performance.
The Michelin X Ice Snow SUV is a herald of innovation, boasting cutting-edge Flex-Ice 2.0 compound technology. It promises unwavering grip even on the iciest terrains. Lauded for its long-lasting tread life, this tire provides not only safety but also longevity, reducing the need for frequent replacements. The X Ice Snow SUV is a testament to Michelin’s dedication to merging safety with durability.
On the other hand, the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 emerges as a beast in deep snow conditions. With its multi-cell compound and hydrophilic properties, it pulls moisture from the road’s surface, ensuring unparalleled traction in slushy conditions. The Blizzak’s bite particles enhance grip on icy surfaces, making it a formidable choice for those challenging winter roads.
This battle is more than just rubber meeting the road. It’s a showdown of technology, engineering, and dedication to winter driving safety. Whether you prioritize tire longevity or unbeatable snow traction, one thing’s for sure: the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV and Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 set the gold standard in the SUV Nordic/studless tire segment. Prepare for an epic duel that keeps drivers everywhere on the edge of their seats!
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Results: Michelin X Ice Snow SUV vs Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3
Results below were taken from the “2022 Vibilagar Best Studless Winter Tire Test” test. A total of 8 SUV specific tires were tested this time around with ice & snow testing included. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin X Ice Snow SUV vs Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 based on the relevant performance category. The X Ice Snow SUV was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark. Note that for the handling evaluation, lap times were used as an objective gauge to determine how well the tire performs while a subjective rating was only provided for dry handling.
The tire size of interest is 235/55 R18 which is a common tire size for Jeep Grand Cherokee and Kia Sorento. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Volvo XC40.
Ice
ICE, ICE, ICE. In the unforgiving world of winter tires, these three letters define the true litmus test. When you’re navigating the perilous terrain of icy roads, there’s nothing more crucial than a tire’s performance on the ice. It’s not just about getting from A to B; it’s about safety, precision, and confidence. Enter two of the segment’s frontrunners: Michelin’s X Ice Snow SUV and Bridgestone’s Blizzak DM V3. Let’s dive deep into how these giants fare when pitted against the treacherous icy terrains.
- Ice Braking
The measure of a tire’s efficiency in bringing your vehicle to a halt on ice is paramount. In this test, the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV stops in an impressive 13.37 meters, securing its place in second position. It edges ahead of the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3, which comes to a stop in 14.55 meters. The shorter the distance, the better the performance – and here, Michelin leads by over a meter.
- Ice Traction
Acceleration on ice requires impeccable grip and stability. The Ice Traction test evaluates how swiftly a tire can move from 5 to 15 km/h on ice. Once again, Michelin X Ice Snow SUV showcases its prowess, clocking in at 3.05 seconds – a mere whisper of time faster than the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3’s 3.37 seconds. While the difference may seem minute, in the real world, those fractions of a second can make all the difference.
- Ice Handling
Arguably the most comprehensive of the tests, Ice Handling assesses a tire’s overall capability to maintain control during dynamic maneuvers on ice. Clocking in at 40.95 seconds, the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV places fourth. It’s closely followed by the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3, which completes the circuit in 41.83 seconds.
In the ruthless arena of ice performance, both the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV and the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 display commendable prowess. But when ice is the top priority, the Michelin appears to have a slight edge in braking and traction, while both tires remain neck and neck in handling. Drivers navigating the iciest of terrains can make an informed choice based on these metrics, but it’s clear – the battle for icy dominance is razor-thin between these two titans.
Blizzak DM V3:
- -8% in ice braking
- -9% in ice traction
- -2% in ice handling (lap time)
Snow
When winter strikes with its full fury, snow-covered roads become a ubiquitous challenge for drivers. In this realm of winter driving, snow performance is of paramount importance, and tires must rise to the occasion to ensure safety and stability. At the forefront of this snowy battlefield are two stalwarts: the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV and the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3. Let’s sift through the snow and see how they compare.
- Snow Braking
Coming to a complete stop on a snowy road without skidding or sliding is a tire’s testament to its braking prowess. In this face-off, both tires showcase commendable stopping power. The Michelin X Ice Snow SUV halts at 11.25 meters, clinching the third spot. Hot on its heels, the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 finishes a close race with a stop at 11.4 meters. With a marginal difference of 0.15 meters, both tires demonstrate strong snow braking capabilities.
- Snow Traction
Acceleration on snow requires impeccable traction to avoid the dreaded wheel spin. The Snow Traction test evaluates a tire’s capability to speed up from 5 to 25 km/h on a snowy surface. Dominating the leaderboard, the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV races ahead, completing the run in a swift 2.74 seconds, earning the coveted first position. The Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3, not far behind, clocks in at 2.86 seconds. A difference of 0.12 seconds delineates the two, but it’s Michelin that takes the crown in this round.
- Snow Handling
Handling tests on snow are a true measure of a tire’s dexterity, control, and agility. With the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV completing the lap in 74.01 seconds, it secures the fifth position. Interestingly, the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 outperforms in this category, finishing the circuit with a lap time of 73.41 seconds — a lead of 0.6 seconds. This round certainly tilts in favor of Bridgestone, indicating superior maneuverability in snowy conditions.
In the snowy realm of tire performance, both the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV and the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 prove their mettle. While Michelin shines bright in braking and traction, Bridgestone displays superior handling prowess. For those who tread snowy terrains, both these tires present robust options. However, the choice ultimately hinges on specific preferences: be it for swift acceleration, precise stopping, or agile cornering. Whatever the need, these two are at the pinnacle of snow performance, ensuring every winter drive is as safe as it is thrilling.
Blizzak DM V3:
- -1% in snow braking
- -4% in snow traction
- +1% in snow handling (lap time)
Wet
Before diving into the wet performance of winter tires, it’s essential to manage expectations. These are not summer tires, designed primarily for wet and dry tarmac. Winter tires prioritize ice and snow performance, and while they still maintain competency in wet conditions, they might not deliver the same results as specialized summer or all-season tires.
It’s crucial to understand the target conflict between optimizing for ice and optimizing for wet conditions. The chemistry and physics involved in designing a tire for icy roads are vastly different from that of wet roads. This isn’t to say that winter tires can’t perform well in the wet — they absolutely can. But the balance between ice performance and wet performance is a delicate dance of compromise.
Dr. Edwin Pang, founder of TopTireReview
- Wet Braking
In the test of wet braking, a critical aspect of safety, both tires were put to the challenge. The Michelin X Ice Snow SUV halted at 40.76 meters, landing in the 8th position. The Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3, on the other hand, showcased slightly better stopping power, coming to a stop at 38.86 meters.
- Wet Handling
Handling under wet conditions tests the agility and control of the tires. Michelin’s X Ice Snow SUV finished its lap in 42.4 seconds, securing the 4th spot. Bridgestone’s Blizzak DM V3 trailed slightly, completing the lap in 43.06 seconds.
- Straight Aqua
Aquaplaning is a significant concern for drivers, where the tire loses contact with the road due to a layer of water. In the straight aqua test, which measures the speed at which the tires begin to slip, both the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV and the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 displayed identical performances, slipping at 61.9 Km/H.
When it comes to wet performance, both the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV and the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 showcase commendable capabilities, given their primary design focus on icy and snowy terrains. While the Bridgestone edges out slightly in braking, both tires are on par in aquaplaning resistance, with Michelin taking a slight lead in handling. But as Dr. Pang emphasized, it’s essential to recognize the delicate balance and compromise involved in tire design, especially when catering to multiple performance scenarios.
Blizzak DM V3:
- +5% in wet braking
- -2% in wet handling (lap time)
- 0% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
As winter tires, the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV and the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 primarily focus on mastering icy and snowy conditions. However, understanding their dry performance is equally crucial for those transitional periods or unexpected dry winter days. Instead of the typical objective lap times, this analysis employs subjective dry handling scores, offering a more nuanced perspective on the tires’ real-world feel and performance.
It’s important not to be taken aback by the seemingly low scores in subjective dry handling. These scores are fairly common for winter tires, especially those with soft compounds. Soft compounds, essential for winter tire performance on snow and ice, tend to be less rigid and responsive on dry tarmac, leading to lower dry handling scores. This is a trade-off for the superior grip they provide in winter conditions.
- Dry Braking
The act of halting a vehicle promptly and safely is a crucial metric for any tire. In dry braking, the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV came to a standstill at 34.46 meters, landing it in the 5th position. In contrast, the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 exhibited slightly superior braking capabilities, stopping at a shorter 33.29 meters.
- Subjective Dry Handling
Instead of simply looking at how fast a tire can navigate a dry circuit, subjective dry handling delves deeper into the feel, responsiveness, and overall experience of the tire under dry conditions. Rated out of 10, the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV earned a respectable score of 4. The Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 followed closely, garnering 3 points, reflecting its performance nuances under dry conditions.
On dry terrains, both the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV and the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 present competent performances, keeping in mind their primary design for wintry conditions. While Bridgestone has a slight advantage in braking, Michelin takes the lead in the subjective dry handling aspect. The lower scores in dry handling should be contextualized within the broader framework of winter tire design, emphasizing the inherent trade-offs of soft compound tires. These tires may not deliver summer tire-like dry performance, but they ensure a balanced and safe driving experience across varied winter conditions.
Blizzak DM V3:
- +4% in dry braking
- -5% in dry handling (subj)
Noise
Noise levels, while often overlooked, play a significant role in the overall driving experience. A quiet ride ensures comfort, especially on long journeys. As we step into the realm of pass-by noise differences between the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV and the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3, it’s pivotal to remember one fundamental fact: soft compound tires are typically among the quietest in the tire segment. This can be attributed to their softer, more flexible composition, which reduces the transmission of road noise.
- Noise
Measuring the decibel levels gives a quantitative assessment of the noise each tire produces during a pass-by. The Michelin X Ice Snow SUV registered a noise level of 74.9 dB, placing it in the 2nd position. This was marginally quieter than the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3, which clocked in at 75.3 dB.
The difference in noise levels between the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV and the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 is relatively minor, with a mere 0.4 dB setting them apart. While both tires offer a relatively quiet ride — a characteristic feature of soft compound tires — the Michelin manages to edge out the Bridgestone, albeit by a slim margin. For drivers who prioritize a serene cabin experience, especially during long winter drives, understanding these subtle differences can be key. Nevertheless, both these tires affirm the fact that soft compound winter tires offer one of the quieter rides across the tire segments.
Blizzak DM V3:
- -1% in exterior noise (+0.4 dB)
Rolling Resistance
As the automotive industry steers towards a more sustainable future, the topic of rolling resistance in tires has garnered increased attention. Simply put, rolling resistance refers to the force that opposes a tire’s motion when it rolls. A tire with a lower rolling resistance needs less energy to move, translating to less fuel consumption for combustion engines and extended battery life for electric vehicles. In essence, reducing rolling resistance is an essential step towards sustainability, as it directly correlates to reduced CO2 emissions and increased fuel or energy efficiency.
- Rolling Resistance
In the rolling resistance face-off, the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV recorded a value of 5.79 kg/t, placing it in the 4th position. The Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3, on the other hand, registered a slightly higher rolling resistance of 6.22 kg/t.
When comparing the two, the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV offers a lower rolling resistance, suggesting it may provide better fuel efficiency or longer battery life in EVs than the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3. While the difference might seem marginal, over the lifespan of a tire, these small savings can accumulate into significant environmental and cost benefits.
For consumers who are becoming increasingly eco-conscious, understanding the rolling resistance of their tires is paramount. Both the Michelin and Bridgestone models have made commendable strides in this direction, with Michelin having a slight edge in this particular comparison. As the push for sustainability accelerates, the importance of factors like rolling resistance in tire selection will undoubtedly continue to grow.
Blizzak DM V3:
- -7% in rolling resistance
Price
For the tire size 235/55 R18, the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV is priced at $216. In comparison, the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3, sourced from Japan as it’s not yet available in the US, comes in slightly cheaper at $212. This results in a 2% price advantage for the Blizzak DM V3. However, while the price is an essential factor, both tires have a reputation for delivering reliable winter performance. The choice might come down to brand preference, specific features, or availability, especially given the marginal price difference.
Tire size: 235/55 R18
- X Ice Snow SUV : $216
- Blizzak DM V3 : $212
Difference: -2% more cheaper for Blizzak DM V3.
Summary
In the heated competition between the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV and the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3, both tires showcased strengths across varying conditions. When it comes to the heart of what winter tires are designed for — ice and snow performance — the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV emerges as the clear winner, demonstrating strong capabilities in both areas. On the icy terrain, Michelin consistently outperformed the Bridgestone, showcasing shorter braking distances and better traction. Similarly, in snowy conditions, Michelin continued to lead in braking and traction, cementing its dominance in the winter tire segment.
However, no tire is without its areas of improvement. The Michelin did face challenges, particularly in wet braking where the Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 had a slight edge. But it’s essential to recognize that while wet performance is crucial, winter tires’ primary role is to excel in ice and snow.
In terms of other aspects like noise levels, rolling resistance, and price, the differences between the two tires were marginal, further highlighting the tight competition. The Bridgestone Blizzak DM V3 does come in at a slightly lower price point, but it’s crucial to note its unavailability in the US and the fact that prices were sourced from Japan.
In conclusion, while both tires bring commendable performances to the table, when it comes to the core of winter driving — ice and snow handling — the Michelin X Ice Snow SUV distinctly stands out as the top contender.