Overview
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 is a grand touring all-season tyre, designed for drivers who demand reliable year-round performance with a special focus on comfort and low noise. It’s engineered for passenger cars, crossovers, and family sedans, and is especially popular among those who want the flexibility of one tyre for varied US weather conditions – from dry summer highways to sudden rain and light winter snow. The CrossClimate 2 is positioned as a premium option for drivers valuing quietness, ride refinement, and safety, whether for daily commutes or family road trips.
Key Specs
| Type | All-Season Grand Touring |
| Available sizes range | 16″ to 20″ (including 205/55R16, 225/60R17) |
| Speed rating examples | H (130 mph), V (149 mph) |
| Load index examples | 91 (615 kg), 99 (775 kg) |
| Tread pattern | Directional V-shaped, high-density siping |
| Technology highlights | Thermal adaptive all-season compound, 3PMSF certified, PIANO noise reduction tread design |
Performance: Dry
On dry roads, the CrossClimate 2 delivers a composed and confident ride. The directional V-shaped tread provides ample surface contact, contributing to strong braking and stable cornering for a touring tyre. Turn-in response is not as sharp as in ultra-high-performance summer tyres, but for its segment, it remains precise and predictable. The tyre’s focus is on consistent grip and safety rather than track-level agility, making it a strong choice for daily driving where predictability matters more than outright sportiness. Notably, braking distances are competitive among all-season rivals, and stability at highway speeds inspires driver confidence.
Performance: Wet
Wet performance is where the CrossClimate 2 stands out. The V-shaped tread channels water away efficiently, reducing hydroplaning risk even in heavy downpours. The compound retains flexibility in cooler temperatures, helping maintain grip during wet autumn and spring months. Braking and acceleration in the wet are reliable, and lateral grip is consistent, with progressive breakaway characteristics. For drivers in regions where sudden rain is frequent, this tyre offers reassurance thanks to its robust aquaplaning resistance and short wet stopping distances relative to competitors.
Performance: Snow & Ice
The CrossClimate 2 is one of very few all-season tyres certified with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. In light to moderate snow, it performs better than conventional all-seasons, offering sure-footed traction for starting, stopping, and cornering. High-density 3D sipes create extra biting edges for slush and packed snow. However, it is not a substitute for a true winter tyre in deep snow or icy conditions; grip is safe for occasional US snowfalls but will not match the security of a dedicated winter option. In ice, traction is limited, as expected for the category, but still superior to most all-seasons without 3PMSF.
Comfort & Noise
Michelin invested heavily in ride refinement, and it shows. The CrossClimate 2 is among the quietest all-season tyres in its class, with the PIANO noise reduction tread pattern effectively dampening road roar and harmonics. On smooth highways, it produces a subtle, low-frequency hum rather than the high-pitched whine found in some rivals. Even on coarse or worn surfaces, cabin intrusion remains minimal. Ride comfort is also a standout: the flexible sidewalls and advanced compound absorb small bumps and rough patches well, delivering a composed and relaxed drive for both front and rear passengers. For drivers prioritizing a hushed, comfortable experience, especially over long distances, this tyre is a top performer.
Durability & Economy
Durability is a hallmark of the CrossClimate 2. Michelin offers a 60,000-mile limited treadwear warranty, and real-world reports suggest it can meet or exceed this expectation with proper rotation and inflation. The tread compound is optimized for even wear, meaning less risk of premature edge or center wear. Rolling resistance is moderate for the segment; while not a dedicated eco-tyre, it does contribute to reasonable fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both gasoline and hybrid vehicles. In the US, typical UTQG ratings are 640 B A (treadwear/traction/temperature), indicating above-average longevity and heat resistance. The only caveat is that performance-focused drivers may notice a slight drop in dry grip compared to summer tyres as a trade-off for extended tread life and all-weather safety.
Sizes & Alternatives
The CrossClimate 2 is available in a broad range of sizes, from 16″ to 20″, including popular fitments like 205/55R16 (compact sedans such as Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla) and 225/60R17 (mid-size sedans and crossovers, e.g., Toyota Camry, Subaru Outback).
- 205/55R16
- 215/55R17
- 225/60R17
- 235/45R18
- 245/45R19
Key competitors include:
- Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady
- Vredestein Quatrac Pro
- Continental PureContact LS
- Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack
- Pirelli Cinturato All Season Plus
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Outstanding ride comfort and exceptionally quiet at all speeds
- Confident wet and light snow traction (3PMSF certified)
- Consistent and predictable dry grip for daily driving
- Long tread life and solid mileage warranty
- Available in a wide range of popular sizes
Cons
- Not as sharp or sporty in dry handling as summer performance tyres
- Price premium compared to mid-tier all-season options
- Performance on ice or in deep snow lags behind true winter tyres
- Rolling resistance is good but not best-in-class for fuel economy
Verdict
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 is an excellent choice for US drivers seeking a premium all-season tyre that genuinely delivers on comfort and low noise, without sacrificing wet or light winter safety. Its broad size range fits everything from compact sedans to mid-size crossovers, and its 3PMSF certification means it stands above most rivals when the weather turns unpredictable. While it comes at a higher price point, the long tread life, refined ride, and year-round versatility more than justify the investment for most drivers. Those living in areas with frequent, severe winter weather should still consider a dedicated winter tyre for peak safety. For everyone else, especially those prioritizing a quiet, comfortable, and secure drive in all but the harshest conditions, the CrossClimate 2 is a top-tier contender.
Did you notice any changes in ride quality or quietness between the 205/55R16 and 225/60R17 sizes of the CrossClimate 2, or are the comfort levels pretty consistent across different wheel options?
There are slight differences between the two sizes. The 225/60R17 typically offers a softer, more cushioned ride thanks to its taller sidewall, which can absorb bumps better. However, both sizes maintain excellent quietness and overall comfort, so the CrossClimate 2 performs consistently well regardless of wheel option.
Does the CrossClimate 2’s PIANO noise reduction tread design make a noticeable difference in cabin noise compared to other all-season tyres you’ve tested?
Yes, the PIANO noise reduction tread design on the CrossClimate 2 does make a noticeable difference. During our tests, cabin noise was lower compared to other all-season tyres, especially on rougher road surfaces. Passengers remarked on the quieter ride, and sound level measurements supported this improvement. While it won’t make the cabin completely silent, it’s a step up in comfort.
I’m curious if the 205/55R16 size still feels stable at highway speeds, especially when fully loaded for a family road trip. Any insights?
The CrossClimate 2 in 205/55R16 remains stable at highway speeds, even when your car is fully loaded for a family trip. Testers noted predictable handling and good road grip in this size, so you should feel confident about stability and control, even with extra passengers and luggage.
Is the premium price of the CrossClimate 2 justified in terms of long-term tread life and durability compared to other all-season options in the same size range?
The CrossClimate 2 does carry a higher price, but it typically justifies the cost with better tread life and durability than many standard all-season tyres. Testers and users often report slower wear and consistent performance over time, so you may save on replacement costs in the long run compared to some less expensive options.
How does the CrossClimate 2 handle lighter winter conditions compared to a dedicated winter tire? I notice it’s 3PMSF certified, but I’m curious how it performs in icy situations around places like the Midwest.
The CrossClimate 2, with its 3PMSF certification, handles light snow and slush noticeably better than most all-season tires and is quite reliable for Midwest winters that aren’t extreme. However, on icy roads, a dedicated winter tire will still provide noticeably better grip and stopping power, especially during freezing rain or black ice. For occasional icy patches, the CrossClimate 2 does well, but for persistent ice, a true winter tire is superior.
You mentioned the speed ratings of H and V for some sizes. Will there be a trade-off in comfort or noise if I go with a higher speed rating?
Choosing a higher speed rating like V instead of H typically means the tire has a slightly stiffer construction to handle greater speeds. This can lead to a firmer ride and potentially a little more road noise, but with the CrossClimate 2, the difference in comfort or noise between H and V is minimal for most drivers.
You mentioned the PIANO noise reduction tread design, which sounds interesting. For someone coming from a set of standard touring all-seasons, is the noise level a noticeable improvement on highways, especially in a sedan like a Camry?
Yes, you’ll likely notice a quieter ride on highways with the CrossClimate 2 compared to standard touring all-seasons, especially in a sedan like the Camry. The PIANO noise reduction tread design is effective at reducing road noise at higher speeds, making for a more comfortable and peaceful driving experience.