Michelin Defender vs Crossclimate 2
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 12 май 2023
- Detailed Read: comparethetire.com/michelin-d...
Welcome to the ultimate showdown between Michelin's top-notch all-season tires: the Crossclimate 2 and Defender 2.
With the Crossclimate 2 reigning unbeatable in the all-season category, we pit it against the Defender 2 to see if it can give the Michelin Crossclimate a run for its money.In this deep comparison review, we dissect their designs, sizes, on-road performance, and much more.
Though let me summarize things for you below.
The Michelin Defender 2, with its conventional tread pattern, offers excellent wet and dry traction, while the Crossclimate 2, with its innovative directional tread pattern, is a strong contender in challenging weather conditions.
The Michelin Crossclimate 2 outshines the Defender 2 when it comes to available sizes, catering to a broader range of vehicles. However, in terms of ride comfort and wet traction, the Defender 2 takes the lead. When faced with snow, the Crossclimate 2 impresses with its winter performance.
We also delve into fuel economy and tread life, where the Defender 2 shines. But which tire is the right one for you? Whether you need a tire with broad compatibility and superior snow performance or a smoother, more economical driving experience, this comparison has you covered.
Don't forget to subscribe to our channel if you haven't already, and visit comparethetire.com for a detailed comparison of these tires and many more.
Your ideal tire might be just one click away! Tune in to our video to find out which of these Michelin tires suits your needs best.
🛑Disclaimer
Creative Commons and Copyrighted Content: This video may contain content licensed under the "Creative Commons Attribution license", as well as clips from "official product videos".
Full credit is extended to the original creators and rights holders of any content featured. These clips are used under the premise of fair use for review and commentary purposes.
If you believe your content has been used in a manner that may infringe on copyrights, or have any other concerns, please reach out to us immediately at [info@comparethetire.com] for resolution.
#Michelin #Crossclimate2 #Defender2 #TireComparison #AllSeasonTires #TireReview 
Авто/Мото
We have the Cross Climate 2 tires on both our Outback and Forester.
We get 5-7 feet of snow every winter.
The Cross Climate 2 tires are Awesome on wet, dry, slushy, snowy, logging and forest roads.
We use them for year round driving.
When they wear out, we’ll replace them with new Cross Climate 2 tires.
That's some impressive performance feedback on the Cross Climate 2 tires, especially in challenging conditions like heavy snow and mixed terrain. Michelin seems to have struck a great balance with these tires. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Is it economical in fuel consumption?
Iv had michelin cross climate 2 on my 2018 crv , got rid of this car and got another 2021 crv bought the same cross climate 2 for the new car! Works A1 in New York/ North Eastern weather!
@@undead6934 They’re awesome here in north central Washington state as well.
We get 5-7 feet of snow every winter and a Lot of rain in the spring and fall
Thanks for the post. I have a 2024 Crosstrek Sport. Live in the SE USA, so snow is rare but rain is frequent. I very wanted an all season that would be okay for very light off road, so these sound perfect.
Been using the crossclimate2 for almost 3 years now. Perfect for the Swedish weather all year around 👍
@kalidor2299
Yes, I've heard great things about the crossclimate 2 especially for your weather conditions. Thanks for the feedback!
good for UK too
Aren't you guys suppose to use Nokian tires?
@@coochiecrook7120 Been using studded tires for ages. They are not as good in deep snow as cc2. My wife still has studded and she get stuck all the time. Same with slushy roads. Only time studded is better is when it's minus 35°C and very icy roads. Then i just drive slow 🙂
Great video! Exactly what I was looking for
Glad I could help!
I live in the north area of S.E. Michigan. Winter's here, haven't been too bad, the last few years. When my 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee; Overland, 4X4, needed the stock tires replaced, I went with the Defender LTX MS. They are fantastic tires. They handle dry and wet pavement equally as good. Even in heavy rains and winds, you never lose traction, or controll. In two winters, they have handled any kind of snow/ice with snow, that has been thrown at us. They are smooth in riding, ( even though they are an LT tire ), I have no complaints in 98% of the ride/noise , while driving. If we got heavy snows, or lived out father, were the roads weren't plowed as good, I'd consider the Cross Climates. The Defender LTX MS, does everything I need, in a tire, and then some. Even if I got caught in a heavy snow storm, I'd have complete confidence in them, getting me were i needed to go.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts man.
I'm in the southern appalachian mtns that are both curvy and hilly with lots of gravel roads. I chose the Crossclimate 2's for its more robust construction and snow capabilities.
@iliveinthewoods3202: Your choice of the Crossclimate 2s seems to align perfectly with the challenging terrains you navigate. It sounds like you prioritized robust construction and snow capabilities, which is essential for the southern Appalachian mountains.
I'm all over KY and I am leaning this direction, as well. I will trade tire longevity for driver longevity all day.
Just replaced my Defender XT's with Defender 2 as I already have a dedicated set of winters with Blizzak DMV2. I did consider the CC2 but with dedicated winter set of tires I wanted longer life and better dry handling. Also wanted as quiet as possible. I might go CC for a future vehicle that I don't end up buying winter rims for. But what Blizzaks do to even my FWD family van I just have a hard time not sticking with them. IMHO my FWD Sienna with Blizzak WS90 was better to drive in paved road snow then my neighbors brand new Subaru with all seasons. The only aspect that was slightly better was acceleration on the AWD Subaru. But braking and turning the old family van with blizzaks just outshined the Subaru with stock tires. So weird that people buy AWD for winter handling but when the snow arrives their AWD only helps them get rolling. They stop no better which I think leads to the higher accidents and spin outs. Almost every vehicle I see in the ditch is some form of AWD or 4x4 as 99% of the population seems to have the "it has AWD, it will do great in the snow" mindset. I have mainly cold and rainy winters but we get black ice and slippery roads when the snow does hit a few times a year as they don't salt the roads here. Which I'm glad as my vehicles aren't all rusted out.
Absolutely agree with your observations. The misconception that AWD equates to better overall winter handling is prevalent. As you rightly pointed out, while AWD may help with initial acceleration, it doesn't automatically grant superior braking or cornering abilities on icy or snowy roads. It's the tires that make the most significant difference in those scenarios. I've always believed that a FWD vehicle with a set of good winter tires can outperform an AWD vehicle with mediocre all-seasons in many winter conditions. It's a testament to the power of specialized winter rubber. Your experience with the Sienna and Blizzaks vs. the Subaru is a prime example. The Michelin Defender 2 seems like a solid choice for you given your requirements and having a dedicated winter set. Here's to safe driving in all conditions! 👍🌨️🚗
@@45eno I hear that all the time too. They think it will do great in the snow if it's AWD. Lol No it does great in the snow because it has blizzak tires or other dedicated winter tires and not some crappy no season tires. They make a huge difference.
My EV seems to freely spin on the wet conditions. I was going to get Crossclimate2 but the Discount Tire Rep recommended the Defender 2. I live in Southern CA so I don’t need that heavy tires here. I can feel the smooth ride and quiet right away. Thank you for the review. 👍
If wet performance is your concern, its better to get CrossClimate 2 over Defender 2. They of course being grand touring tires do better than standard touring.
Just bought these for my 23 Acura Integra A-Spec 6MT as I live in Colorado, and the Conti-Pro Contact that came stock not only lost pressure in the cold but developed a sidewall bubble at only 13k miles!
Not to mention they were horrendous in winter conditions despite the MT and 30 years of experience.
So far my biggest complaint is the RR and obviously performance, steering feels much heavier - however not DYING this winter is a good trade off 😅 I put it in sport mode to help me feel less lagged by these claws.
I imagine I should lose quite a bit of fuel efficiency by the RR as well as my dynamic mode choice.
Again, a little extra at the pump
Or in a ditch? Hmm let me think on that - said no one ever.
Noise is handled by my ELS audio system lol.
And hey to anyone with rude or unnecessary comments, get outta here! This guy took the time to do a helpful video, have some respect or literally just don’t comment.
Negativity be gone ✨
Hopefully I don’t regret my purchase. I need to adjust to not having a low profile higher performance tire, however - I am a spirited driver.
ALWAYS BETTER to be Safe than SORRY.
Take care Borat 😂❤
This Tire is black not
I just got Michelin defender 2 I'm really excited to see how they do in the winter and rain
Defenders aren't so great in wet conditions.
@@comparethetire "...PROVIDES EXCELLENT WET AND DRY TRACTION" -You, at 0:59 regarding Defender2
Let me tell you the defender is scary in the snow.
@@keithgore6285 I actually believe you though lol. Im going with the Continental Cross Contact LX25's
Defender 2 isn't the best for thick snow. I use mine for summer use only. Light snow is okay but the thick snow not the best.
Rain and summer these tires do really well. Mind you I drive a 15 honda odyssey no sport car by any means
I used for few years defenders and is an awesome tire,super quiet and grips like no other
Now I’m on KO2’s
Yes they are very quiet on road, and they also last a long time.
I wanted the Cross Climate2’s but I ended up going with the Defender2’s because they were a rippin good deal at Costco. I wish I could say I’m 100% satisfied but I’m really not. IMO the dry and wet traction is less than impressive. They slip pretty badly in wet weather, even worse than the crappy Falkens my vehicle came with. I haven’t driven them in deep snow but they seem ok in a few inches of snow. But the MPG and noise is good and after 12,000 miles they’ve only worn 1/32 which is good.
It's unfortunate the Defender2's didn't meet your expectations in wet conditions. However, the fuel efficiency and minimal wear are positives worth noting.
Defender is X-tour ?
@@oscarsuarez4843 From what I understand it’s the same overall design, but the defender and the X-tour have different compounds. I read several complaints about too much noise on the X-tour, not the defender.
I’m willing to forgo efficiency for bad weather condition performance. My choice is the the 2’s
Absolutely, prioritizing bad weather performance over efficiency can be a wise choice, especially in regions prone to adverse weather conditions. It's great to hear that you've found a tire that meets your needs in the "2's". Thank you for sharing your preference; it adds another perspective for community members to consider when making their own choices.
This is my second car with the CrossClimate 2 and LOVE THEM
@sandiebock8035: It's wonderful to hear that you've had a positive experience with the CrossClimate 2 tires for not just one, but two cars! Your continued trust in them speaks volumes about their quality and performance.
Are they loud on the road? I just bought these and will have them installed in a few days.
@@jacedragonthinking of getting these tyres if you got them how you finding them?
@jacedragon this is my second set of cross climate 2, yes they are a little louder I guess because of the tread pattern but they are worth it if you have crazy whether year round. Works superb in the northeast.
We are in lower Mi. Have the crossclimate2 on our crv and had the defender ltx on my ridgeline. Bit of a different animal, I felt both did really well on wet. Dry hard to tell a difference, maybe defenders a bit crisper. For light towing the defender seemed fine, never towed with crv. On mud the defenders do well, crossclimates just ok - think of a service road. In snow and ice both do well, but I feel the cross climate2 does better on ice, both similar on snow (maybe cross climate2 a bit better). In terms of wear the defender wears like iron for me, the crossclimates seem to wear faster. I’d guess that crossclimates last 40-50k, defenders 60k+. I’d say noise and road feel about the same. In all I think both are good tires, all about priority. Towing id have defenders, or wanting longer life. If snow and ice is bad or pervasive I’d go with crossclimate2. Off roading at all I’d go defenders, tho they aren’t an A/T tire but for a muddy/grassy field, driving onto the beach, a service road they did fine. I am told they are discontinuing the defender ltx?
Good review. Yes they are replacing the Defender LTX MS with the M/S2
Who prioritizes a tire based on broad compatibility? As long as the tire you buy fits the vehicle you buy it for, why does the number of other available sizes matter?
You raise a valid point. Typically, individual compatibility is a priority when choosing a tire. However, discussing broad compatibility can be crucial for some consumers as it can reflect the versatility and adaptability of the tire across various vehicle models and types, possibly indicating wider availability and varied application of the tire.
Tyre reviews by Borat? Ver-hy niiice!!
This tire is black not.
Where have you seen Borat in this video?
The Bridgestone WeatherPeak is what you should’ve compared for all-weather CC2 match. Still a good video! Keep em coming. Working on finishing a 30k experience review of my CC2s to be uploaded this week
Nice to know. Would love to check it out.
@@comparethetire about darn time (lotta delays) ruclips.net/video/vqao23eJFRk/видео.html
The Fuel Economy factor is very important because of the current Gouging by the Oil Industry. for 10 yrs I had the Michelin Gas Savers(I can't remember the exact Name) on my Cadillac STS, they increased the Fuel Economy nicely, that Little car was getting about 36mpg on the Highway
I kind of like the Crossclimate's Snow Traction but if it kills the Mileage...
Yes, you're right, and I think you're talking about energy saver series, they are pretty cool in terms of fuel economy for sure. Though Defender 2 is also a great pick.
The price gouging is not from the oil industry. It's from the government.
@@jackmehoff4613
No, Taxes are only 39cents and Liter, and as the Gouge goes up, the % that is Tax, drops. Simply Unbridled Capitalism screwing the Consumers. Time to Tax the Gougers @150% if their Excessive Profits, and Tax the Shareholder the same Rates on Excessive Dividends
Oil companies make a small amount of profit by percentage. 5-10% in most years. Stop the envy that is fueled by Democrats
Had a set of CC2 on a lincoln mkt awd. They had decent traction but they were noisey and only lasted 30k miles. They wore evenly but were down to wire when we replaced. Poor longevity for the price for sure.
Thanks for sharing your experience with the CC2, 80hdad97. It's always a balance between traction, noise, and longevity, and it sounds like longevity was an issue for you with this particular tire. Your feedback will surely help others in their decision-making process.
The AWD models scrub a lot more so will wear as the Volvo designed haldex AWD system is keeping you safe. 5000 mile rotations helps keep tread life to 4 years or 60k miles max on these 3 mountain peak snow flake tires.
Can you please do the Continental PureContact vs Continental TureContact Tour. I’m struggling which one to pick
Sure Thing
Will go with Micheline only.
Was using defenders and then upgraded to crossclimate2’s and will never go back.
Good to hear.
What type of vehicle?
@@berettaguy7445 rav4 and GR Corolla which is also AWD
I live in Michigan have the Cross Climate 2 on a Land Rover. Best all seasons I have tried, better than the Perreli all season for sure. Its as close as you can get to the best of both worlds. I tired of changing rims 2 a year and the shops have busted lugs twice on my cars, they cross thread them snap them off then send you to a diff shop to fix it for 100+.
I don't trust them anymore they get too agressive with impact wrenches. So I'm sticking with 1 set of tires to avoid that down time thats happened twice in past year.
Thanks for sharing.
Great discussion BUT THE MUSIC IS TOO LOUD.
RS. Canada
I'll keep that in mind, while posting the next video.
Which is better on a dry highway and rarely with rain?
Defender better on dry, while Crossclimate 2 is better in wet, simply put.
@@comparethetire That's the opposite of what your video says? It says Defender is better on wet pavement.
@@jonathankoelsch9291right? So I’m confused….
I'm on the fence. We don't get much snow and I can stay home when that happens, so maybe the defenders.
If snow isn't a major concern and you can choose to stay home during those rare events, the Defenders seem like a practical choice for you.
I learned this winter the defender 2 absolutely sucks in the snow. I live in the Great Lakes area so snow isn’t new to me. If you’re looking for tires safe in the snow go for the cross climate.
Out of these 2, the CrossClimate is a much better option for snow
cross climates a good but they do rumble on dry roads a bit on the 235 65 17 size its my only complaint and they are not great on flooded roads they tend to drag a little when you hit a pool at speed, I think they are slightly overpriced too, I will be replacing this Autumn as the current set are 4 years old and starting to wear as the rubber has aged, not sure what to replace them with but wont be buying Cross climates again, possibly considering Continentals, slightly less expensive and less noise according to the stats.
Your experience with the Michelin Cross Climate tires highlights the importance of considering different factors like noise, price, and performance on different road conditions when choosing tires. It's great that you're planning ahead for a replacement and taking your experiences into account to make a more suitable choice for your next set of tires.
I love my climate 2 on my elantra quality and amazing in winter super quiet
Same here. Older Elantra but loving them as a daily driver.
I have seen a number of reviews elsewhere that say the CC2 do not track straight, they wander. Anyone who has or had them agree or disagree with that?
Interesting observation, @charlie3851. It seems like some people have diverse experiences with the Michelin Defender and Crossclimate 2. If others have faced a similar issue with the CC2 wandering and not tracking straight, it'd be great to gather more insights!
I've watch a few reviews lately and they have said they track well.
Ours track very nicely, as long as the air pressure is the same on all 4 corners.
He didn’t mention that the cross climate is directional/asymmetrical, so you cannot rotate the tires traditionally (cannot move from left to right side) so shorter tire life. Also, defender has longer mileage warranty.
The real prober way is front to back. Not side to side. If your car is aligned properly that’s the way to do it. That dude to side is for suspensions that have problem I wouldn’t
You mean directional?
@@comparethetire yup
I’m at 53k miles and they’re still performing amazing and I’ll buy another set. I think 55-60k miles is fine for a tire and what I expect and these do that 👍🏼
I have a set of the defender 2's sweet tire I have 0 complaints but one and it has nothing to do with the tire performance. i have a 2012 Lexus es350 the tire on it was a Perilli and I replaced it with this. long story short the Pirelli was a bit lower profile and looked better. but at the end of the day this is a better preforming tire. no doubt.
Absolutely! While the aesthetic might differ from the lower-profile Pirelli, the Defender 2s are likely providing you with enhanced comfort and overall performance. It's great to hear they're performing well for you!
Is this the same CrossClimate that has just had half a million tyres recalled in the US, because Michelin has confirmed that it does not actually have sufficient all-season grip?
No, the tyres recalled are the ones for light trucks. It seems the others are fine, not least going by user reviews.
Thanks for pointing that out, @feanor5037! It's crucial for viewers to have a clear picture. User reviews and official statements can indeed shed light on these nuances.
Defenders please
Wawaweewa very nice 👍🏼
Thanks for the positive vibes! Glad you liked the content. Stay tuned for more!
😆 great success!
I have new Cross Climate 2 tires and so far I think I am realizing about a 10% loss of MPG
It seems many report 1.5 to 2MPG w their cars. What type vehicle do you have?
Yes compared to Defender they are indeed more fuel-consuming.
I have what I will call the original CC tires, I just got a nail in the side wall and as of right now the CC 2 does not have my tire size of 215/70/16 for my 2015 Honda CR V, Michelin better get its game right, this is a heck of a problem to have now
We truly understand your concern regarding the availability of the CC 2 in your required tire size. It can indeed be inconvenient. We hope Michelin addresses the availability issue soon to cater to the varied needs of all its customers, and we'd recommend keeping a close watch on their official announcements for any updates.
@@comparethetire got an email from Michelin because of a review I gave, then now tell me they are not going to make the size of the tire I have 215/70/16 in the CC 2 even thought they made it in the original CC
Didn't know Christopher Walken is now a Michelin spokesman.
It's always interesting when unexpected individuals become spokespeople for products. Christopher Walken's unique style certainly could add an interesting twist to tire commercials.
Bridgestone Alenza Ultra gives the Mitchelin a run for the money!
@jn3750, throwing Bridgestone into the mix with Michelin shows just how fierce the tire game is. Both brands are top-tier, so it's like choosing between two gourmet meals.
Pls don't use that transition without normalizing the volume lower... It makes it nearly impossible to watch the video with speakers because it's so much louder than the rest of the video.
Noted
Yes, hate the transition sound!
GOOD for snow and rain not REALLY a HWY tire.
@hwfranjr It's always essential to find the right tire for the right purpose. Snow and rain performance is crucial for many. Thanks for the heads up about its highway suitability!
My wife drives her 2006 Lexus LS430 on a 2nd set of Yokohmas YK 740 (an incredible ride in all conditions). I drive my 2011 Lincoln Towncar on the Michelins Defender 2. IMHO, hands down, the Lexus on the Yokohmas is the best ride. Now, the Lexus car design (design, suspension, etc.) may be contributing reason for the better ride over the LTC, but still, the ride in the Lexus is superior over the LTC.
It's fascinating to hear the comparison between the Lexus on Yokohamas and the Lincoln on Michelins. There are indeed multiple factors, including design and suspension, that can affect ride quality. However, it's great to know that the Yokohamas are delivering an exceptional ride for the Lexus. Thanks for sharing your detailed observations!
I’m in the north. I need a tire for every thing snow wet dry. That’s cross track defender is not good in that. You live in Florida get defenders
I agree, selecting the right tire greatly depends on the geographical location and the accompanying weather conditions. Being in the north, it is indeed crucial to opt for a tire that performs well in a range of conditions including snow and wet roads. Your suggestion to consider other options than the Crossclimate for individuals living in northern regions is insightful. Please keep sharing your thoughts and experiences; it helps others make informed decisions.
Cross climate 2 is a super tire in snow but on ice it's OK not as ice tires
Yes, that's true. Though its still better compared to Defender 2 on ice too.
The Crosses are probably the fastest wearing tire I ever had.Not worth the higher price unless you live in a area that gets a lots of snow.
Yes true that. If its not snowing where you live, go with Defenders.
I wouldn't put defenders on my car if you gave them to me for free. I don't consider the fragile defender to have any great advantage over the cross climate. If you looked at the actual data you would find any advantage the defender might have from its cheap construction to be so slight as to be virtually unnoticeable. It is the standard in a no season tire. The cross climate isn't an all season tire at all. Its an All Weather tire. Thats literally what its for and honestly shouldn't even be compared to a No Season tire.
I get what you mean, one is a standard touring while other is the all weather grand touring, but a lot of folks asked about this comparison.
Compared these 2 tires and bought CrossClimate2 before ever seeing this video due to bad snow performance (Colorado) of the Defender2.
If never driving in snow seems Defender2 is better choice.
On a Tesla Model 3 I found CC2 to be very smooth & quiet compared to prior tires.
Best way to extend tire life on an EV is use Chill acceleration mode most of the time (still fast just not insane like standard mode). First time a set of tires lasts only 20K miles gives cause to re-evaluate full-time driving in standard mode.
Tesla has a scroll wheel on steering wheel where one function is to quickly switch between Chill and Standard acceleration. Great for passing slow ICE vehicles especially pickup trucks.
Thank you for sharing all this for others.
No thanks on the CC2. I would rather go with a quieter tire, better mileage, and better versatility. My tire is the Defender 2.
yes, especially the tread longevity.
Heck,they MADE a car tire like a tractor tire,lol,How Smart if ya plow ING a field,lol😂😂😂😂
@hwfranjr Haha, that's an amusing way to look at it! Sometimes innovation takes inspiration from unexpected places. 😂 Safe travels, whether on the highway or the field!
Lame move by video producers, to not pick a winner.
@jotu173
Apologies if the video wasn't conclusive. We aim to provide viewers with as much information as possible so they can make an informed decision.
Is it that or you don't want to piss off Michelin (who is likely sponsoring the video). In my opinion, I really feel like it is the Michelin thing.@@comparethetire
Wasn't cross recalled for lying sow results? Millions of tires. Hmmm
yea but only XL sizes.
@comparethetire mine is a XL size 🤔
cant get past this music. bye
Understood! We'll re-evaluate our music choices in future videos.