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MichelinCrossClimate2
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The CrossClimate2 is Michelin's Grand Touring All-Season tire developed for the drivers of sedans, coupes, station wagons, crossovers and SUVs looking for daily driving comfort combined with confident performance in dry, wet and light snow conditions. The CrossClimate2 is designed as an all-weather tire to meet industry severe snow service requirements qualifying for the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol alongside its all-season performance and is intended to function as a one-tire solution for drivers that experience all four seasons but don't receive sufficient snowfall to require a dedicated winter tire.

Michelin CrossClimate2 Callouts

The CrossClimate2 features Michelin's Thermal Adaptive all-season tread compound molded into a V-Formation directional tread design engineered to deliver dry, wet and wintertime performance. Michelin utilized their PIANO Noise Reduction Tuning which employs advanced tread pattern modeling that helps tune out airborne noise by augmenting tread element geometry and timing variation. Longitudinal dry grip is promoted by the center portion of the tread, with blocks that align with fore and aft forces, increasing uninterrupted block area contact when accelerating or decelerating. Braking traction is further enhanced by V Ramp chamfers molded into the leading and trailing edges of the blocks that increase contact with the road surface under load. Further outboard, the shoulder blocks begin to align laterally with the tread, helping increase cornering forces and control. 3D SipeLock technology integrated into the tread, supports block rigidity for confident handling while also increasing traction in inclement weather. The steep angles designed into the tread pattern help channel water away from the contact patch, increasing hydroplaning resistance without the need for circumferential grooves. This grooveless pattern evens out load forces to benefit wear characteristics, while creating more biting area for wintertime traction. Snow performance is further enhanced by the Thermal Adaptive Tread compound, ensuring the tire remains flexible at lower temperatures for increased snow traction sufficient to receive the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol.

Internal construction of the CrossClimate2 consists of a two-ply polyester casing supporting two steel belts. A polyamide reinforcement is added to further enhance high speed stability and performance.

Note: While non-winter tires featuring the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol may provide additional longitudinal snow traction beyond what all-season (M+S) tires not bearing the symbol can deliver, they do not match the capability of a true winter tire in all adverse weather conditions.

Related Information: What is the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol (3PMSF)?

Tire Rack Test Results Michelin CrossClimate2

Are EV-Specific Tires Better than Popular Non-EV Tires? – 2025 Test 1 - With Winter Update(39:48)

In the first test of 2025, we run it back with EV vs non-EV tires with an eleven-tire, five-category grouping.  Using our pair of Teslas, we delve into efficiency, road characteristics, wet and dry handling/braking, and of course, the overall rankings when combined! Including a final chart with tires from 2024 added! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the first test of 2025!



Read the Full Test Report

View All Winter Test Results

Ratings Charts & Reviews Michelin CrossClimate2

Tire Category: Grand Touring All-Season

Consumer Surveys

 
Best in Category
Miles Reported
Recommended
Treadwear
Michelin CrossClimate2
Excellent
100%
47M
9.0 - Excellent
9.4 - Excellent
9.4 Hydroplaning Resistance
9.4 Wet Traction
9.4 - Excellent
9.4 Corner Stability
9.5 Dry Traction
9.3 Steering Response
8.8 - Excellent
9.2 Light Snow Traction
8.8 Deep Snow Traction
8.5 Ice Traction
8.9 - Excellent
9.1 Ride Quality
8.6 Noise
9.1 - Excellent

Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 Reviews

Feedback patterns show the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2 delivers outstanding treadwear (9-10 scores dominate), with many customers highlighting long-lasting performance. Comfort earns consistent praise for a smooth, quiet ride, supported by high marks in noise reduction. Winter traction is strong in snow (8-10 range), though ice traction shows occasional lower scores (4-7), suggesting variability in extreme cold. Wet traction and hydroplaning resistance are excellent (8-10), with dry handling described as confident and responsive. As a highway-focused all-season tire, it excels in year-round predictability, balancing durability with refined driving dynamics. A few lower ice scores remind users to adjust expectations for severe winter conditions.

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Customers Like:

352 reviews mention "Wet Traction"

  • 342 positive
  • 10 negative

Most customers rate wet traction 9-10, highlighting excellent hydroplaning resistance and confident grip in rainy conditions, ideal for all-season highway use.

April 30, 2025
(Verified Purchase)
4.7 out of 5 Star Rating
4.7 out of 5

...They track well in wet weather.

Really pleased with the purchase. Tires are quiet. They track well in wet weather.

Vehicle: 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser
Miles Driven on Tires: 2,000
Driving Conditions: Mostly Highway
Location: EGG HARBOR CITY, NJ
Driving Style: Spirited

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April 22, 2025
(Verified Purchase)
4.1 out of 5 Star Rating
4.1 out of 5

...They handle very well in rainy - wet road conditions, the heavy front end diesel truck corners well on wet roads, even at high speeds. It takes a 2 - 3" deep puddle at 75 mph or faster to even get a little hydroplaning.

This is my second set of these and once again on my way to 60,000 miles treadwear.
They handle very well in rainy - wet road conditions, the heavy front end diesel truck corners well on wet roads, even at high speeds. It takes a 2 - 3" deep puddle at 75 mph or faster to even get a little hydroplaning.

Vehicle: 2015 Ford F350 4WD Single Rear Wheel 275/70-18 OE
Miles Driven on Tires: 23,000
Driving Conditions: Mostly Highway
Location: SANDY, UT
Driving Style: Spirited

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January 10, 2024
(Verified Purchase)
5 out of 5 Star Rating
5 out of 5

...After lots of research I decided to go with these new Defender LTX M/S2's... and best of all, I can't break the rear loose even if I try my best on a rainy day. Just did a 300-mile road trip in cold rainy weather, and the cushy/silent ride combined with virtually none of the good road/steering feedback loss I expected is really impressive...

I had only put about 25k miles on the Goodyear Wrangler Adventurer A/T w/ Kevlar's (E-rated) that were on the truck when I bought it (truck was used, the dealer put those on new when I got the truck), when the traction in even light rain on flat roads had become so bad that the rear end would break loose every time I tried to leave a stop sign or turn a corner at 15 mph. After lots of research I decided to go with these new Defender LTX M/S2's (P-rated since I don't really tow/haul, but they do have an "XL" rating in the size I purchased which should do fine with light towing), and my goodness what a difference. The noise level dropped to essentially zero at every speed, the teeth-chattering over every crack in the road turned into a smooth and composed ride, and best of all, I can't break the rear loose even if I try my best on a rainy day hammering on it. Just did a 300-mile road trip in cold rainy weather, and the cushy/silent ride combined with virtually none of the good road/steering feedback loss I expected is really impressive. The truck just feels planted on the road now. Looking forward to getting a snowstorm so I can test these in ice/snow and on the dirt/sand roads on my buddy's property, but I have no doubt they will be as great or better than the previous Defender LTX M/S. With the limited feedback I've had so far, I highly recommend these.

Vehicle: 2019 Ford F150 4WD SuperCrew
Miles Driven on Tires: 1,000
Driving Conditions: Mostly Highway
Location: WILLIAMSTOWN, NJ
Driving Style: Average

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181 reviews mention "Winter Traction"

  • 167 positive
  • 14 negative

Most customers rate winter traction highly, with snow/deep snow scores often 9-10 and ice traction mostly 7-8. Excellent snow performance noted, with reliable grip in varied conditions. A few lower ice scores show minor variability.

February 20, 2025
(Verified Purchase)
4.8 out of 5 Star Rating
4.8 out of 5

...Very responsive and quiet tire that's unbelievable in the snow and rain! Perfect tire for a large SUV dealing with New England winters!

Love these on my Escalade! Very responsive and quiet tire that's unbelievable when it comes to driving in the snow and rain! Perfect tire for a large SUV dealing with New England winters!

Vehicle: 2014 Cadillac Escalade AWD
Miles Driven on Tires: 5,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: HUDSON, NH
Driving Style: Average

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August 06, 2025
(Verified Purchase)
4.6 out of 5 Star Rating
4.6 out of 5

These tires get great traction on packed snow/ice...

These tires get great traction on packed snow/ice. Really like the ride quality which is smooth. Very happy with purchase and would buy again.

Vehicle: 2021 Ford F150 4WD SuperCrew 275/60-20, Max Trailer Tow Pkg
Miles Driven on Tires: 20,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: LANSING, MI
Driving Style: Easy Going

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August 12, 2025
(Verified Purchase)
5 out of 5 Star Rating
5 out of 5

...And my drive is thru the Sierra Nevadas, storms included. Deep snow, slush, ice, and water on the steepest downhill sections with sudden curves at the bottom. Again, a new car feel, confidence greatly improved, fear at a much lower level!...

I was going to sell this Escalade because I thought the suspension was worn out. But with winter beginning I opted for new tires and decided on this Defender. It transformed my suv into a dramatically improved handling vehicle. And my drive is thru the Sierra Nevadas , storms included. Deep snow, slush, ice, and water on the steepest downhill sections with sudden curves at the bottom. Again, a new car feel, confidence greatly improved, fear at a much lower level! Heart rate and blood pressure no longer sky high on the dangerous sections. Very happy with this decision!!

Vehicle: 2015 Cadillac Escalade
Miles Driven on Tires: 2,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: RENO, NV
Driving Style: Spirited

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381 reviews mention "Dry Traction"

  • 378 positive
  • 3 negative

Customers consistently rate dry traction highly, with most scoring 9s and 10s. The Defender LTX M/S2 delivers responsive handling and reliable grip, excelling in its intended highway all-season use.

March 25, 2025
(Verified Purchase)
4.5 out of 5 Star Rating
4.5 out of 5

...They have a great ride and are quiet for highway driving, yet work really well on dirt roads, in rain and in snow...

These are pretty close to perfect tires for real SUV's and truck (vs. crossovers). I loved the previous LTX's, but these seem better in every almost every way. They have a great ride and are quiet for highway driving, yet work really well on dirt roads, rain and snow. The new versions also look a bit more aggressive. I big plus is the always-great Michelin quality, as I also run Michelin sport tires on my Porsches as with zero issues. Unless you need a very aggressive off-road traction tire on your SUV, this is your tire.

Vehicle: 2008 Lexus GX470
Miles Driven on Tires: 8,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: MORGAN HILL, CA
Driving Style: Spirited

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November 27, 2024
(Verified Purchase)
4.7 out of 5 Star Rating
4.7 out of 5

...Just handled a 800 mile road trip like butter...

Absolute gold for my 1500 RAM. Worth every penny. Top shelf experience with these. Just handled a 800 mile road trip like butter. The OEM Pirelli Scorpion Verde were complete rubbish. As always, the TireRack experience was flawless. Do your research, of course, but you will not be disappointed. If you’re not a researcher, but a click and buy consumer, just buy these and be done. And happy. Cheers

Vehicle: 2022 RAM 1500 4WD Quad Cab (6 Lug) 285/45-22
Miles Driven on Tires: 1,500
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: FRISCO, TX
Driving Style: Average

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383 reviews mention "Ride Quality"

  • 364 positive
  • 19 negative

Customers overwhelmingly rate the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2's comfort as excellent, with most scoring 9s and 10s for smooth ride quality and quiet cabin noise. High scores highlight its ability to deliver refined highway driving in all-season conditions.

April 23, 2025
(Verified Purchase)
4.8 out of 5 Star Rating
4.8 out of 5

...immediate difference in ride quality and noise when compared to the OEMs these replaced...

Best tires I've ever owned. There was an immediate difference in ride quality and noise when compared to the OEMs these replaced. Deep snow traction is impressive for all season tires as well. These will be the only tires I use going forward for my truck and SUVs.

Vehicle: 2018 Ford F150 4WD SuperCrew
Miles Driven on Tires: 5,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: WEST RICHLAND, WA
Driving Style: Average

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April 16, 2025
(Verified Purchase)
5 out of 5 Star Rating
5 out of 5

...They definitely improved the ride quality

I'm really happy with these tires. They definitely improved the ride quality

Vehicle: 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe LT
Miles Driven on Tires: 500
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: RIDGEFIELD, CT
Driving Style: Average

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November 07, 2023
4.6 out of 5 Star Rating
4.6 out of 5

...My goal was to increase comfort and wet traction. I never thought that a nicer tire could improve the comfort level as much as these have. It is like driving a different vehicle...

I had a lot of different tires on my list of options. I was torn between the Defenders, the Scorpion and the Crossclimates. I live in Florida so I decided to eliminate the Crossclimates, even though they look the coolest as they are directional :-) . I decided on the Michelin Defenders, only because they seem to be the most reviewed on my particular vehicle. I am sure the Scorpions are nice. With that being said, WOW these tires are nice. My goal was to increase comfort and wet traction. I never thought that a nicer tire could improve the comfort level as much as these have. It is like driving a different vehicle. I replaced a set of Hankooks that were horrible in the rain and felt stiff. My wheels are 22 inches and I thought that it would be impossible to get a softer ride but the Defenders accomplished just that. They definitely look nicer too. Something about the shape makes it look like there is more rubber. I will come back and update on wet traction once the Florida rainy season comes but, based on reviews, it should be a big improvement.

NOTE: The Defender 2's do not have many reviews out as they are the newest version. These should be as good, if not better than the original Defenders.

Vehicle: 2020 Ford Expedition Max 2WD 285/45-22
Miles Driven on Tires: 100
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: OVIEDO, FL
Driving Style: Average

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266 reviews mention "Treadwear"

  • 257 positive
  • 9 negative

Customers overwhelmingly rate treadwear as excellent, with most scoring 9s and 10s. The Defender LTX M/S2 demonstrates outstanding durability for highway use, with many noting long-lasting performance even under demanding all-season conditions.

January 28, 2025
5 out of 5 Star Rating
5 out of 5

I cannot make the defenders slip. They ride more comfortable and look great!...

I went back and forth between these and the Scorpions and I chose the Defenders. I am so happy with my purchase. I do not recall what tires were on my Expedition but they were horrible. I live in Florida so, in the summer, the roads are always wet. The tires on the vehicle were horrible. I replaced them even though they were full tread because I was worried about safety.

I cannot make the defenders slip. They ride more comfortable and look great! If you are torn, buy these.

Vehicle: 2020 Ford Expedition Max 2WD 285/45-22
Miles Driven on Tires: 15,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: OVIEDO, FL
Driving Style: Average

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November 21, 2024
(Verified Purchase)
4.7 out of 5 Star Rating
4.7 out of 5

...I go 70,000 miles on the first set and took them off at 4/32" tread remaining.

This the second time I have purchased these tires. I go 70,000 miles on the first set and took them off at 4/32” tread remaining.

Vehicle: 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 4wd Crew Cab
Miles Driven on Tires: 2,000
Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City
Location: MURPHY, NC
Driving Style: Average

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October 24, 2024
(Verified Purchase)
5 out of 5 Star Rating
5 out of 5

...Great traction in all conditions, great confidence, and I was getting as much as 81,000 miles per set... after 31,000 miles I'm still at 11/32nds...

The legend evolves. I've had 3 sets of the OG Defender LTX M/S on my Silverado, and I was always pleased with what I experienced. Great traction in all conditions, great confidence, and I was getting as much as 81,000 miles per set. When I saw they updated the LTX M/S, I knew I had to try them. I'm not sure how Michelin accomplished this, but the new tire is even better than the old. Grip is better, especially in inclement weather, no fuel mileage change, and after 31,000 miles I'm still at 11/32nds. There may be a touch of more road noise on certain roads, but you have to be looking for it. I am thoroughly satisfied and will be running these tires until they update them yet again. The best tires are made by Michelin.

Vehicle: 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4wd Double Cab
Miles Driven on Tires: 31,000
Driving Conditions: Mostly Highway
Location: CASPER, WY
Driving Style: Spirited

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Consumer Reviews

Media Gallery

Are EV-Specific Tires Better than Popular Non-EV Tires? – 2025 Test 1 - With Winter Update(39:48)

In the first test of 2025, we run it back with EV vs non-EV tires with an eleven-tire, five-category grouping.  Using our pair of Teslas, we delve into efficiency, road characteristics, wet and dry handling/braking, and of course, the overall rankings when combined! Including a final chart with tires from 2024 added! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the first test of 2025!



Read the Full Test Report

View All Winter Test Results

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.

Read the Full Test Report

View All Winter Test Results

All-Season vs. All-Weather Tires: What’s the Best Touring Tire for Premium CUVs? – 2024 Test 2 – With Winter Update(22:11)

We’ve tested Touring All-Season tires before, but never like this! Eight Touring tires, the best of the best, both 3PMSF branded [all-weather] and traditional all-season options, take to the street and the track to see how they stack up. Using our new Alfa Romeo Stelvio to represent the popular CUV segment, TJ and Brent put these eight contenders through the paces on the road, on the track, and in the winter elements to get a read on what to consider when comparing all-weather vs. all-season tires.



Read the Full Test Report

View All Winter Test Results

Experience the Michelin CrossClimate2(00:59)

The Michelin CrossClimate2 was developed for drivers of sedans, coupes, minivans, crossovers, and SUVs looking for a well-rounded daily driver. Along with delivering on-road refinement and confident traction in the dry and the wet, the CrossClimate2 is also branded with the 3 peak mountain snowflake symbol, meaning this tire is a great option for milder winter climates as well.

Testing Grand Touring All-Season Tires: Michelin CrossClimate2(02:15)

The Michelin CrossClimate2 has historically been strong in the Grand Touring All-Season category, a consistent, high-level tire that continues to impress. An excellent benchmark to test against, our team has seen significant improvement across the board by its rivals.

Our evaluation used 2022 Subaru BRZ Limited test vehicles fitted with new, full tread depth 225/40R18 tires mounted on 18x8.0 wheels.

Read the Full Test Report

Comparing Electric Vehicle (EV) Tires: Michelin Original Equipment vs. CrossClimate2 (03:59)

Range is a very important consideration for Electric Vehicles, and the Original Equipment tires often place a strong emphasis on efficiency. But what do they give up? We compared the Tesla Model 3’s Original Equipment Michelin tires to popular replacement market tires from the same brand to see how each one affects the vehicle’s range and traction.

Read the Full Test Report

Testing Grand Touring All-Season Tires: Michelin CrossClimate2(02:21)

The Michelin CrossClimate2 is a consistent, high-level performer in our tests and well-liked by consumers in all regions, so should serve as a strong benchmark for the competition.

Read the Full Test Report

Testing Premium Grand Touring All-Season Tires 2021: Michelin CrossClimate2(02:33)

The Michelin CrossClimate2 goes head-to-head against one of its closest competitors along with two new additions to the Grand Touring All-Season category.

Read the Full Test Report

Testing Premium Touring All-Season Tires 2021: Michelin CrossClimate2(02:14)

Consistently at the top of the consumer ratings and Tire Rack test results, we compared the CrossClimate2 to the newest and best Crossover/SUV Touring All-Season tires.

Read the Full Test Report

Testing Crossover/SUV & Grand Touring All-Season Tires: Michelin CrossClimate2(01:59)

Michelin’s CrossClimate2 has proven itself a strong competitor in our testing, so we used it as a benchmark to measure the performance of one of the newest in Crossover/SUV Touring All-Season.

Read the Full Test Report

TJ Talking: Michelin CrossClimate2 2020 (18:24)

On this episode of TJ Talking, Tire Rack Information and Testing Manager, TJ Campbell, and Michelin Product Category Manager, Karl Koenigstein, discuss an exciting new entry built on the previous success of their top-performers, the Michelin CrossClimate2.

Testing Grand Touring All-Season Tires 2020: Michelin CrossClimate2(01:57)

The CrossClimate2 is Michelin’s latest Grand Touring All-Season tire that promises to raise the bar on all-season traction and road refinement.

Read the Full Test Report

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