The Defender2 is Michelin's Standard Touring All-Season tire built for drivers of coupes, sedans, crossover, SUVs and minivans, looking for a dependable tire with reliable year-round traction. Defender2 tires are built to combine long, durable tread life with capable all-season performance in dry, wet and wintry conditions, even in light snow.
The all-season compound is molded into a symmetric tread design allowing for flexible rotation patterns, helping manage block wear and maintain a smooth, quiet ride. Interconnected tread elements minimize airborne noise and help ensure a stable footprint for predictable handing in dynamic maneuvers. Wide, circumferential grooves provide ample pass-through volume and channel water from generous lateral notches for enhanced hydroplaning resistance. Carefully integrated lateral and longitudinal sipes help provide biting edges and grip on slippery pavement for confidence in inclement weather and wintry roads.
Internal construction of the Defender2 consists of a single-ply casing with a high turn-up ply design to maintain durability while preserving ride comfort. Twin steel belts provide a robust foundation for the tread and are reinforced by a polyamide cap ply for stability at high speeds.
El neumático Defender2 de Michelin pertenece a la categoría: Turismo Estándar Para Toda Estación y fue fabricado para conductores de autos cupé, sedán, utiliautos (crossover), vehículos utilitarios deportivos (SUV, por sus siglas en inglés) y minivans, que desean un neumático con tracción confiable durante todas las estaciones del año. El Defender2 ha sido diseñado para combinar un desgaste lento y durabilidad, con buen rendimiento durante todo el año en condiciones secas, mojadas e invernales, incluyendo superficies con poca nieve.
El compuesto de caucho para toda estación es moldeado en una huella con patrón simétrico, que permite una rotación flexible, lo cual ayuda a manejar el desgaste de los bloques y mantener un manejo parejo y tranquilo. Elementos interconectados en la huella disminuyen el ruido y ayudan a asegurar una huella estable, la cual, proporciona un manejo predecible en maniobras dinámicas. Ranuras circunferenciales anchas permiten pasar gran cantidad de agua a canales laterales, y así proporcionar mayor resistencia al deslizamiento sobre agua (hydroplaning). Pequeñas ranuras laterales y longitudinales integradas, ayudan a proporcionar bordes adherentes y tracción sobre pavimento resbaloso, proporcionando mayor confianza en climas inclementes y durante el invierno.
La construcción interna del Defender2 posee una estructura con una capa de bordes altos diseñados para mantener durabilidad y mantener un andar confortable. Correas gemelas de acero proporcionan una fundación robusta para la huella, y son reforzadas con una capa de poliamida que proporciona estabilidad a velocidades elevadas.
Specifications shown are as accurate as possible based on the information provided to us by the tire manufacturers. The dimensions reflect average values for tires measured on the specified measuring rim width. Individual tires may vary from data shown.
All tires are subject to continuous development. The tire manufacturers and Tire Rack reserve the right to change product specifications at any time without notice or obligation.
*Although regularly updated, the country of origin for tires may vary from what is shown. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate requests for tires with a specific country of origin.
For assistance selecting products for your vehicle, please contact our sales specialists at 888-541-1777 or via email.
Treadwear:6 Years / 80,000 Miles Half mileage for rear if different size than front
Manufacturer Special Warranty:60-day satisfaction (1), 3-yr roadside assistance
Additional Information:(1) Up to 6 per customer, exchange for any brand.
Notes
See official manufacturer's warranty brochure for specific details.
New vehicle Original Equipment tire warranties often differ from those covering replacement tires. Consult your vehicle documents to confirm Original Equipment tire warranty coverage.
Tire Rack Test Results Michelin Defender2
All-Weather vs. Winter Tires: The Definitive Test(12:05)
Brent and TJ set off with a couple of objectives in this, the first test of 2026. The first is to highlight the differences between two types of Grand Touring tires: all-season and all-weather. Second, to see how they stack up to dedicated winter tires. The internet is a great resource, but not all the information out there is accurate, and this test is designed to truly set the record straight.
Drivers consistently rate the General Grabber HTS as a strong highway all-season tire, with standout scores in dry traction (9-10), steering responsiveness (8-10), and hydroplaning resistance (8-10). Treadwear receives praise for durability, though a few note variability in longevity. Comfort shines with smooth ride quality and low noise (8-10). Winter traction earns confident ratings (7-10) for light snow and slush, though some report reduced grip on ice or in deep snow. Wet performance is reliable, with most drivers highlighting secure handling in rain. Its balanced all-season capability and quiet highway manners make it a solid choice for drivers prioritizing year-round comfort and predictable dry/wet performance.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Select to learn more
Customers Like:
930 reviews mention "Wet Traction"
800 positive
130 negative
Most customers give the General Grabber HTS excellent wet traction scores (8-10), praising confident grip and hydroplaning resistance. While a few lower ratings exist, the majority highlight reliable wet performance for all-season highway driving.
January 22, 2017
(Verified Purchase)
4.3 out of 5
...I'd give them a 10 for rain and snow and a 7 for dry weather...
I bought a set of General Grabber HTS' about two months ago. They are exactly what I wanted on this vehicle -- a good value, great in rain and snow, and acceptable for dry-weather driving. I've already taken two trips of around 500 miles and each time had opportunities to run them in snow. On an all-wheel-drive SUV I had no problems in up to 6 or 8 inches of snow, and only avoided deeper drifts because I didn't want to drag the bottom of the car and get stuck. I'd give them a "10" for rain and snow and a "7" for dry weather. Its' interesting that they make the steering feel a little lighter - enough where at highway speeds I sometimes have to pay attention to tracking straight (using the same pressure as prior tires). Not a problem just a minor note. Overall good tires.
Vehicle: 2002 Lexus RX300 Miles Driven on Tires: 3,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: MUKILTEO, WA Driving Style: Average
...funny that i regretted not getting 4wd then i managed to climb out of some slippery wet sandy grass ditches without a tow! super proud of that actually...
8000 florida miles on new 2wd XD encourages me to write this review about GENERAL HTS GRABBER as OEM. super tires running 65psi and some light hauling around 50% HWY & TOWN mix. funny that i regretted not getting 4wd then i managed to climb out of some slippery wet sandy grass ditches without a tow! super proud of that actually. also testament to the locker. clearly NISSAN has some classy folks working there because they DO NOT use goodyear, which are not good for more than grinding into new sports fields. great ride and probably will buy again if nitto or yokes are sky high $$$$$
Vehicle: 2016 Nissan Titan XD 2WD Miles Driven on Tires: 8,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: JUPITER, FL Driving Style: Average
The General Grabber HTS delivers strong winter traction, with most customers scoring snow and deep snow performance 9-10. Ice traction shows solid 7-8 ratings, though some note variability in extreme conditions.
January 22, 2017
(Verified Purchase)
4.3 out of 5
...I've already taken two trips of around 500 miles and each time had opportunities to run them in snow. On an all-wheel-drive SUV I had no problems in up to 6 or 8 inches of snow, and only avoided deeper drifts because I didn't want to drag the bottom of the car and get stuck...
I bought a set of General Grabber HTS' about two months ago. They are exactly what I wanted on this vehicle -- a good value, great in rain and snow, and acceptable for dry-weather driving. I've already taken two trips of around 500 miles and each time had opportunities to run them in snow. On an all-wheel-drive SUV I had no problems in up to 6 or 8 inches of snow, and only avoided deeper drifts because I didn't want to drag the bottom of the car and get stuck. I'd give them a "10" for rain and snow and a "7" for dry weather. Its' interesting that they make the steering feel a little lighter - enough where at highway speeds I sometimes have to pay attention to tracking straight (using the same pressure as prior tires). Not a problem just a minor note. Overall good tires.
Vehicle: 2002 Lexus RX300 Miles Driven on Tires: 3,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: MUKILTEO, WA Driving Style: Average
...These tires handle the dry, snowy, and Icy roads with confidence. Whether in two wheel drive on a snowy intersate to a 4x4 mode on county back roads these tires were very impressive for an all-season...
Installed these tires before a trip out to Idaho. The area we were in was hit hard by sub freezing temps and snow. These tires handle the dry, snowy, and Icy roads with confidence. Whether in two wheel drive on a snowy intersate to a 4x4 mode on county back roads these tires were very impressive for an all-season. Would I go into the deep stuff with these, absolutely not. However, for an all around town and traveling tire these are impressively quiet, good riding, and dependable tires. Thanks General!
Vehicle: 2005 Ford Explorer Limited 4wd With TPMS Miles Driven on Tires: 2,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: TACOMA, WA Driving Style: Spirited
...They do extremely well in light to moderate snow...
These came nearly new on a used Honda Element that I acquired. They seem to be a really good fit for the car. They're relatively quiet and Hondas typically have a lot of road noise. They are quite pleasant on the highway, track and respond well. They do extremely well in light to moderate snow. I plan to buy them again.
Vehicle: 2008 Honda Element EX 4wd Miles Driven on Tires: 35,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: LANCASTER, PA Driving Style: Average
Most customers give excellent dry traction scores of 9-10, praising confident grip and responsive handling. High ratings align perfectly with its intended highway all-season performance, ensuring reliable dry-road capability.
August 20, 2022
(Verified Purchase)
4.4 out of 5
...The tires are quiet to go down the highway, provide good traction when wet or dry...
These General Grabber tires are the same tires that were put on at the factory when new. The tires are quiet to go down the highway, provide good traction when wet or dry. I was happy with the performance of the original tires for wear and traction. Putting new tires on the truck made it ride like it was new again.
Vehicle: 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 2wd Regular Cab Miles Driven on Tires: 2,000 Driving Conditions: Mostly Highway Location: WARREN, IN Driving Style: Easy Going
...The HTS tires are very stable and provide excellent wet and dry traction...
I've always had General tires and never had a problem. The HTS tires are very stable and provide excellent wet and dry traction. I have just under 50,000 miles on them and still have another 4/32 to go. I even made it through Blizzard Nemo on unplowed streets! I would highly recomend these tires to anyone!
Vehicle: 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo Standard Model Miles Driven on Tires: 50,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: WESTPORT, MA Driving Style: Average
Most customers rate comfort highly with scores 9-10, praising smooth ride and low noise. The majority of ratings fall between 7-10, indicating strong satisfaction. Some variability exists, but performance excels in highway conditions.
October 23, 2016
(Verified Purchase)
4 out of 5
...Comfort, noise level, ride quality, tread wear have all been outstanding...
Bought 215/70R-16 General Grabber HTS to put on my 2006 Honda Element 2WD about 3 months ago. Comfort, noise level, ride quality, tread wear have all been outstanding. For a tire priced under $100 these have preformed extremely well. I would buy these again.
Vehicle: 2006 Honda Element EX-P 2wd Miles Driven on Tires: 5,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: CONWAY, AR Driving Style: Average
...The General Grabber HTS transformed the ride quality and handling of my truck...
Quick delivery from Tirerack to my door. The General Grabber HTS transformed the ride quality and handling of my truck. Good looking tire with great performance from a reputable company. Will buy again.
Vehicle: 1964 Chevrolet C10 Pickup Miles Driven on Tires: 500 Driving Conditions: Mostly City Location: MOUNT VERNON, IL Driving Style: Average
Most customers rate treadwear as excellent with scores of 9s and 10s, highlighting long-lasting durability for highway driving. While a few lower scores exist, the majority praise its resilience in all-season conditions.
October 08, 2016
(Verified Purchase)
4.4 out of 5
Well, these tires have an Tread Count of 680 and I purchased them on Sept 2011 after I purchase my used 2005 Jeep at 114, 000 miles, today Oct 8, 2016 I'm at 144,000 miles with still lots of rubber...
Well, these tires have an Tread Count of 680 and I purchased them on Sept 2011 after I purchase my used 2005 Jeep at 114, 000 miles, today Oct 8, 2016 I'm at 144,000 miles with still lots of rubber. I can't beat it. Had 2 flat tires in 5 years from nails (on the same tire twice) I spent $420 on set of 4 tires. I wished I could get this out of all car tires for this price. I would recommend this tire to everyone. Thank You General.
Vehicle: 2005 Jeep Liberty Sport 4wd Miles Driven on Tires: 30,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: BAYONNE, NJ Driving Style: Average
All-Weather vs. Winter Tires: The Definitive Test(12:05)
Brent and TJ set off with a couple of objectives in this, the first test of 2026. The first is to highlight the differences between two types of Grand Touring tires: all-season and all-weather. Second, to see how they stack up to dedicated winter tires. The internet is a great resource, but not all the information out there is accurate, and this test is designed to truly set the record straight.
Premium Touring Tires: Elevating the Journey – 2025 Test 7 - With Winter Update(30:19)
New tires, customer favorites, and former test winners are among the group for 2025’s Test 7, which also sees some manufacturers with multiple tires. Both Bridgestone and Goodyear have two tires in this group, while Continental, Michelin, and Yokohama each have a horse in this race. Who comes out on top and what category will it represent, Standard Touring or Grand Touring All-Season? In the end where will these tires stack up in our ever-growing combined results of tested touring tires? Watch now to find out!
Premium Touring Tires: Elevating the Journey - 2024 Test 8 - With Winter Update(28:51)
Ultra High Performance All-Season tires are the best of the best when it comes to maximizing warm-weather traction while maintaining four-season usability. In this test, we compare 9 tires from this category to see what stands out and what leaves more to be desired.
The Unsung Heroes of the Daily Driver – 2024 Test 4 With Winter Update(29:18)
Ten touring all-season tires built to handle everyday commuters’ needs take their turn on a car built to do the same, a 2025 Toyota Camry. Our testing team assesses strengths and tradeoffs and ranks them top-to-bottom to help you determine which is right for you. This updated version includes our 2024 winter testing!
The Michelin Defender2 is a Standard Touring All-Season tire built for drivers of coupes, sedans, crossover, SUVs, and minivans, looking for a dependable tire with reliable year-round traction.
Testing Standard Touring All-Season Tires: Michelin Defender2(1:57)
The Michelin Defender2 is the latest entry into the Standard Touring All-Season category, so our team put it up against two other previously tested and highly ranked competitors.
Need help choosing the right products for your vehicle? Our US-based team of highly trained experts has the knowledge and passion to help. Just pick up the phone and give us a ring. Or let's chat via email. We love solving problems and lending a hand (or an ear).
(1,092)
