Michelin X-Ice Snow vs Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico: The Michelin X-Ice Snow, launched in 2020, goes head-to-head with the Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico, introduced in 2023. Michelin’s X-Ice Snow has built a solid reputation for its exceptional winter performance, but can the newly launched Ice Zero Asimmetrico challenge its dominance? With Pirelli bringing fresh technology to the table, this battle in the winter studless segment promises to be an exciting clash of innovation and experience!
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Results: Michelin X-Ice Snow vs Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico
Results below were taken from Canadian Tire’s Road Rated test with a total of 10 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin X-Ice Snow vs Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico Winter based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin X-Ice Snow was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Canadian Tire’s road-rated test consolidates all performance aspects—wet, dry, comfort, fuel economy, ice, and snow—into a single score for each category. While this approach provides a solid overall assessment, it does not isolate specific metrics like braking distance. However, the combined score still offers a reliable approximation of a tire’s performance across various conditions.
Ice
The Michelin X-Ice Snow outperforms the Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico in ice braking, stopping 8% shorter in specialized indoor tests. This means the X-Ice Snow provides a noticeable advantage in icy conditions, offering better grip and shorter stopping distances compared to the Ice Zero Asimmetrico, which lags behind in braking performance.
Ice Zero Asimmetrico :
- -8% in ice
Snow
The Michelin X-Ice Snow holds a slight edge over the Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico in snow performance, with a 1% advantage in acceleration, traction, braking, and overall handling on a snow-packed course in northern Sweden. While the difference is minimal, the X-Ice Snow provides slightly better control and grip in snowy conditions compared to the Ice Zero Asimmetrico, which closely follows but falls just short in overall snow capability.
Ice Zero Asimmetrico :
- -1% in snow
Wet
The Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico outperforms the Michelin X-Ice Snow in wet conditions, delivering 12% better performance in hydroplaning resistance, braking, lateral grip, and overall handling on a wet asphalt track. This means the Ice Zero Asimmetrico offers noticeably better control and shorter braking distances in wet conditions, while the X-Ice Snow falls behind in maintaining grip and stability on wet surfaces.
Ice Zero Asimmetrico :
- +12% in wet braking
Dry
The Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico performs 3% better than the Michelin X-Ice Snow in dry conditions, offering improved braking, cornering, and overall handling during emergency maneuvers on a dry asphalt track. While the X-Ice Snow remains competent, the Ice Zero Asimmetrico provides slightly better stability and responsiveness in dry conditions.
Ice Zero Asimmetrico :
- +3% in dry braking
Comfort
Both the Michelin X-Ice Snow and the Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico provide the same level of comfort, with no difference in cabin noise and ride quality across various road surfaces. Whether it’s smooth highways or rougher terrain, both tires deliver an equally comfortable driving experience.
Ice Zero Asimmetrico :
- 0% in comfort
Rolling Resistance
The Michelin X-Ice Snow and Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico perform equally in rolling resistance, showing no difference in their impact on fuel economy or EV range. Both tires offer the same efficiency in minimizing energy loss, ensuring similar levels of fuel savings and driving range.
Ice Zero Asimmetrico :
- 0% in fuel economy
Price
The Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico is priced at $357, which is $86 more expensive than the Michelin X-Ice Snow at $271. The higher price of the Pirelli could be attributed to its noise cancellation foam, which enhances cabin comfort by reducing road noise.
Tire size: 235/45 R19
- X-Ice Snow : $ 271
Difference: +31% more expensive for Ice Zero Asimmetrico
Conclusion
As a tire expert, I’d say both the Michelin X-Ice Snow and the Pirelli Ice Zero Asimmetrico have their strengths. The X-Ice Snow stands out with its superior ice and snow performance, providing better grip and control in harsh winter conditions. On the other hand, the Ice Zero Asimmetrico excels in wet and dry conditions, offering improved handling and braking, with the added benefit of noise cancellation foam for a quieter ride. While the Michelin offers better winter traction, the Pirelli brings a more balanced performance across different road conditions, though at a higher price.
Dr Edwin Pang