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.
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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
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.
Feedback consistently shows the Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season Run Flat delivers strong comfort with smooth ride quality and low noise, scoring 8-10 in most ratings. Winter traction earns praise for reliable snow performance, while wet and dry traction receive positive marks for confident handling and grip. However, treadwear raises concerns, with many ratings in the 0-5 range noting rapid wear or disappointing tread life. Customers highlight its all-season versatility for crossover/SUV use, with dry traction (8-10 scores) and responsive steering standing out. While comfort and traction excel, inconsistent tread durability tempers long-term satisfaction for some drivers.
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Customers Like:
Customers Dislike:
241 customers mention "Wet Traction"
207 positive
34 negative
Most customers rate wet traction highly, with scores of 9s and 10s highlighting confident grip and hydroplaning resistance. While a few lower scores exist, the majority praise reliable all-season performance in wet conditions.
October 18, 2019(Verified Purchase)
4 out of 5
...They are also superior in all weather conditions, from dry to rain to snow...
I bought the Pirelli Scorpion run-flats about 3 years ago to replace the OEM Michelin MXM4 non-run-flats. The amazing thing about these tires is although they are run flat (and therefore have stiffer side walls) they actually have a better ride than the original non-run-flat tires. They are also superior in all weather conditions, from dry to rain to snow. They are just better, period.
It should be noted that the handling, ride, traction ratings I am giving here are versus other all-seasons I have had. They are certainly not in the same league as the Pilot Sport summers in dry warm conditions or Blizzak winters in the winter that I use on other cars. But as a compromise all season tire they are actually better than most I have tried.
The only downside is the tread life. At 28,000 miles the tire is nearly at the tread wear bars and needs to be replaced before the winter comes. Then again, the OEM Michelins were used up at around 27,000 so maybe this is par for the course for this type of tires. I'm likely buying another set in the next month.
Vehicle: 2013 Acura RDX Technology Package AWD Miles Driven on Tires: 28,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: MERRICK, NY Driving Style: Spirited
...Turn in is sharp, handling is precise, and wet traction is very good...
I purchased these to replace the Bridgestone Duelers Run Flats that came on the vehicle. These Pirellis are easily better in wet and dry conditions and are quieter, smoother, and handle road irregularities much better than the Duelers. These tires finally provide the ride quality I expect from my SUV.
Turn in is sharp, handling is precise, and wet traction is very good. Braking performance is as expected. The tires provide a surprisingly smooth and quiet ride in most road conditions. Very little noise is transmitted into the cabin when traversing minor road irregularities. The tire soaks up harsh road irregularities without providing the harsh response normally expected from run flats. In fact they don't feel like run flats at all.
I am certainly very pleased with these tires so far. Once I have enough miles on these tires to evaluate tread wear I'll update this review.
Vehicle: 2012 BMW X5 xDrive35d Base Model Miles Driven on Tires: 200 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: SAN JOSE, CA Driving Style: Average
...They have never shown any signs of breaking loose on wet surfaces and are wearing very evenly and as expected...
This has been a very good set of tires so far for our ‘21 Q7 Prestige. The ride is quiet, stable, predictable and comfortable. They have never shown any signs of breaking loose on wet surfaces and are wearing very evenly and as expected. A recent rotation and balance indicates a tread depth that should yield about 37-38 thousand miles which is very acceptable by me. I have not driven in any snow as yet but given their overall traction and with Audi Quattro, no reason to believe that they would not be quite able to handle light snow just fine. No tire does well on ice. I would definitely buy them again.
Vehicle: 2021 Audi Q7 3.0T Runflat Tires Miles Driven on Tires: 15,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: SALEM, SC Driving Style: Average
Most customers report confident snow performance with scores 8-10, and reliable deep snow traction. Ice traction shows mixed results, with ratings ranging 5-8, but remains suitable for all-season winter use.
September 09, 2020
4 out of 5
...Overall the winter performance was very good with good traction on acceleration and braking in both icy and snow packed conditions...
Purchased these to replace OEM Michelins that were well worn at 32,000 mi and were not the best in winter driving conditions even when newer. Overall the winter performance was very good with good traction on acceleration and braking in both icy and snow packed conditions. Dry and wet performance was also very good both in city and mountain driving. Since these run flats come with no tread warranty I expected a relatively short life for these tires of around 30-35k mi and they lasted 28,000 mi. The tread life was a bit dissapointing since the tire does handle well in all conditions and there are not many options out there in this size for run flats. Would probably buy again if I only wanted run flats because of their winter performance but switching to Continental Cross Contact LX 25 non RF and relying on a portable pump and goo instead for the next set of tires.
Vehicle: 2014 BMW X5 xDrive35i Luxury Line Miles Driven on Tires: 28,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: HIGHLANDS RANCH, CO Driving Style: Spirited
...It was a pretty mild winter in MN, but they were more than up to the challenge when things got slick...
I have never had luck with tires on any BMW vehicle that I have owned until now. I notice they are much quieter than the Michelin or Goodyears I have had on previous vehicles or dealer loaners. It was a pretty mild winter in MN, but they were more than up to the challenge when things got slick. I'm at 26,000 mi and should have no problem getting another 5-10,000 out of them
Vehicle: 2014 BMW X5 xDrive35d xLine Miles Driven on Tires: 26,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: MAPLE GROVE, MN Driving Style: Average
...Had our first encounter in the mountains with about 2 inches of snow on Friday evening and these tires were great. Even tried to make them slip and it was minimal...
I had these installed on my 2015 BMW X5 AWD diesel for the winter. I went with the brand as that is what my all season tires are as well. Had our first encounter in the mountains with about 2 inches of snow on Friday evening and these tires were great. Even tried to make them slip and it was minimal. At this point I can recommend them.
Vehicle: 2015 BMW X5 xDrive35d xLine Miles Driven on Tires: 600 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: FREDERICK, MD Driving Style: Spirited
Most customers rate dry traction between 8-10, highlighting confident grip and responsive handling. A few lower scores (7s) still reflect solid performance for all-season Crossover/SUV use.
October 25, 2014
3.5 out of 5
...Dry superb. Great turn in and grip...
Initially, tires excellent. Bought Jeep new 7/2014 with OEM Pirellis. Logged a lot of miles very quickly. Rain and dry superb. Great turn in and grip. However, tires no match for NE Pa winter. Straight tracking good, but poor performance with stopping and acceleration. I did not feel tires should be rated for snow. Good 3 season tire. I need more grip in winter. Tire noise increased exponentially after 18k - UNBEARABLE! 400 mile trip to Vermont gave me a headache. Front tires now past wear bars in middle. Rotated and proper pressure maintained. Tires good for 22-24000 max. Way too much money for tire even though W rated (only one on market, hence crazy price) Sure, run-flat good idea, but I have a full spare with tow package. In summary, pretty good performer new, poor disappointing winter tire, jet engine drone unacceptable over 18k. Will not replace with same. Looking at Yokohama Parada Spec-X at 1/3 price.
Vehicle: 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Miles Driven on Tires: 28,500 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: SUGARLOAF, PA Driving Style: Spirited
...If I put in track mode new it took a lot to lose traction but take traction control off now I cannot get into it much before it slips (all 4 tires)...
I rated these based on brand new performance; once half way through life (15k miles) things went downhill quickly. I loved the tire brand new but once 15k miles were on them they quickly showed a lot of problems. The noise went from not noticable to I could hear it over the SRT-8 engine (no modifications). I saw a drop in gas mileage as well. The traction stayed there with a little more required out of the traction control of the jeep. If I put in track mode new it took a lot to lose traction but take traction control off now I cannot get into it much before it slips (all 4 tires). I am at 26k miles and the inner tread has no sipping and the large groves are down to warning markers. Considering this is supposed to be a 30k mile tire I would say I have used it 6k miles too long. It is certainly a 20k mile tire at best. I do not know what I am going to replace with but I am VERY hesitant to spend this kind of money for the lack of longevity out of these tires. I do drive spiritedly on occasion but the vast majority of my driving is not very aggressive (it is my daily driver and while I don't care about gas mileage I don't like to get 12mpg, when I can get closer to 18 if I just don't drive at the edge).
Vehicle: 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Miles Driven on Tires: 26,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: SCHENECTADY, NY Driving Style: Spirited
Most customers rate ride comfort and noise levels highly, with scores of 8-10. Positive feedback highlights smooth, quiet performance, making it an excellent choice for crossover/SUV touring in all-season conditions.
October 31, 2024(Verified Purchase)
4.7 out of 5
...These were a lot quieter and more comfortable than the previous ones...
This is my 3rd set of these tires Verdes. Frankly, I did a lot of research and these were not the ones BMW crazies recommended. Here is the catch - Pirelli changed the design. I lost my tire guy but back then I remember comparing the threads with him and they were not the same. These were a lot quieter and more comfortable than the previous ones. I have a different X5 now with bigger tires and these Verdes are not on the list, but if they come I’ll get them again
Vehicle: 2015 BMW X5 xDrive35i Luxury Line Miles Driven on Tires: 12,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: FORT WAYNE, IN Driving Style: Spirited
This will be my third set of Scorpion Verde's on a 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT. On wet and dry roads, these tires are excellent. They grip like they were made of velcro. There is little to no noise. The two downsides are tread wear and winter driving. For tread wear, they are a soft tire so understandably, you won't get more than 20-25,000 miles out of a set if you drive aggressively. For snow, you may as well park your vehicle as driving on snow or ice is like driving with thru snot on tires made of marble. There is absolutely no grip. It ain't happening. That is why these are called 3-season tires. For winter, I recommend switching out to Blizzaks which I've been doing for years.
Vehicle: 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4X4 SRT Miles Driven on Tires: 15,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: BOONTON, NJ Driving Style: Spirited
...Something was redesigned since the last set because these are so quiet and comfortablecompared to the others...
1. These are my 3rd set of these tires. 2. Something was redesigned since the last set because these are so quiet and comfortable compared to the others. The thread pattern is definitely different. So, for my car, these are probably the best and I would recommend
Vehicle: 2015 BMW X5 xDrive35i Luxury Line Miles Driven on Tires: 1,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: FORT WAYNE, IN Driving Style: Spirited
Treadwear ratings reveal significant dissatisfaction, with many scoring 0-5 citing rapid wear, premature tread life, and needing replacement early. While some report 9s-10s, frequent complaints of excessive wear in all-season use highlight inconsistent performance.
September 15, 2024(Verified Purchase)
4.3 out of 5
...tread wear stinks...
great tire if cost not a factor, tread wear stinks, not to be plugged, i found someone who did it successfully anyway.
Vehicle: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 SUV Base Model Miles Driven on Tires: 25,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: ROCKINGHAM, VA Driving Style: Spirited
...But the tread-wear is atrocious. 16K Miles and I'm beyond the wear indicators. If they were half the cost, maybe I could make peace with half the expected mileage...
There is a lot to like about these tires, especially by comparison to other loud or stiff run-flats. But the tread-wear is atrocious. 16K Miles and I'm beyond the wear indicators. If they were half the cost, maybe I could make peace with half the expected mileage. At this cost, never again.
Vehicle: 2018 Audi Q7 3.0T Premium Plus Miles Driven on Tires: 16,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: MONTCLAIR, NJ Driving Style: Average
...Tire warranty is 65,000 miles, I got less than 16,000 on them at this point and they are at 2/32, 3/32, 3/32, and 4/32... Four years and 16k is completely unacceptable for a tire that was $120 a piece...
COMPLETE JUNK. Tire warranty is 65,000 miles, I got less than 16,000 on them at this point and they are at 2/32, 3/32, 3/32, and 4/32. They were installed in 6/2020, this is 11/2024. These are on my wife's van, and the typically doesn't even do the speed limit when driving. I rotate my own tires, so I cannot provide documentation for any pro-rated warranty claim. Four years and 16k is completely unacceptable for a tire that was $120 a piece. I was a fan of Pirelli, but I will never buy another Pirelli again after this experience.
Vehicle: 2014 Toyota Sienna AWD XLE Miles Driven on Tires: 16,000 Driving Conditions: Combined Highway/City Location: BETHEL PARK, PA Driving Style: Easy Going
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.
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