How We Chose
Our selection process focused on tyres available in the US market for sedans and crossovers, emphasizing everyday practicality and safety. We reviewed independent and manufacturer data, prioritizing:
- Safety: Braking and handling in dry, wet, and (for all-seasons) light snow conditions.
- Wet Grip: Performance on rain-soaked roads, including hydroplaning resistance.
- Snow Capability: For all-seasons, we considered light snow traction; summer tyres were not rated for snow.
- Comfort & Noise: Ride quality and cabin noise levels.
- Durability: Treadwear, using UTQG ratings and real-world reports.
- Economy: Rolling resistance for fuel efficiency and value for money.
- Labeling & Testing: Considered UTQG ratings and respected US/European tyre test outcomes where relevant.
1. Michelin CrossClimate 2 — All-Weather Mastery
Why it stands out
The CrossClimate 2 blurs the lines between all-season and all-weather, offering exceptional wet and light snow grip with summer-like dry performance. Its unique V-formation tread delivers confidence in variable US climates.
Best for
- Drivers facing occasional snow but preferring to avoid winter tyre swaps
- Long-distance commuters
- Fleets seeking year-round versatility
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season (all-weather rated, 3PMSF)
- Popular sizes: 205/55R16, 225/60R17, 235/45R18
- Strengths: Wet/snow grip, longevity, quiet ride
- Trade-offs: Premium price, not a substitute for dedicated winter tyres in heavy snow
2. Continental PureContact LS — Balanced Touring Choice
Why it stands out
Continental’s PureContact LS provides a well-rounded all-season option with consistently high scores in wet and dry braking. Its Comfort Ride Technology absorbs road imperfections, making it a favorite among comfort-seekers.
Best for
- Daily commuters
- Drivers prioritizing comfort and quietness
- Moderate climates
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season touring
- Popular sizes: 215/55R17, 225/50R17, 235/60R18
- Strengths: Smooth ride, wet traction, tread life
- Trade-offs: Modest snow performance compared to all-weather rivals
3. Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady — Confident in All Conditions
Why it stands out
Designed for unpredictable weather, the Assurance WeatherReady boasts 3PMSF certification and adaptive tread patterns for reliable grip on dry, wet, and snowy roads.
Best for
- Drivers in four-season regions with occasional snow
- Families and fleet vehicles
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season (all-weather, 3PMSF)
- Popular sizes: 205/60R16, 225/65R17, 235/55R18
- Strengths: Snow traction, wet braking, warranty
- Trade-offs: Slightly firmer ride, moderate fuel efficiency
4. Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack — Premium Comfort and Quiet
Why it stands out
The Turanza QuietTrack is engineered for serene highway cruising. Its tread pattern reduces road noise, while silica-rich compounds enhance grip during wet weather.
Best for
- Drivers seeking a luxury touring experience
- Long road trips and high-mileage users
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season touring
- Popular sizes: 215/55R17, 225/60R17, 235/45R18
- Strengths: Quietest in class, ride comfort, treadwear
- Trade-offs: Not for heavy snow, premium cost
5. General Altimax RT43 — Value and Reliability
Why it stands out
The Altimax RT43 offers dependable all-season performance at a budget-friendly price. It’s known for even treadwear and strong wet grip, making it a staple for cost-conscious buyers.
Best for
- Budget-minded drivers
- Urban commuters
- Older vehicles and secondary cars
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season
- Popular sizes: 205/55R16, 215/60R16, 225/65R17
- Strengths: Price, wet handling, tread life
- Trade-offs: Modest snow and dry performance versus premium options
6. Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus II — Balanced Efficiency
Why it stands out
Pirelli’s Cinturato P7 Plus II is engineered for low rolling resistance and balanced performance. It brings solid wet and dry handling together with a quiet, efficient ride.
Best for
- Eco-conscious drivers
- High-mileage commuters
- Urban and suburban use
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season touring
- Popular sizes: 205/55R16, 225/50R17, 235/45R18
- Strengths: Fuel economy, comfort, wet braking
- Trade-offs: Average snow performance
7. Yokohama Avid Ascend LX — Extended Tread Life
Why it stands out
Yokohama’s Avid Ascend LX prioritizes longevity with an advanced tread compound delivering one of the highest mileage warranties in its class. It also offers balanced traction and a quiet ride.
Best for
- Long-distance drivers
- Fleet managers
- Drivers focused on value per mile
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season
- Popular sizes: 205/55R16, 215/60R16, 225/60R17
- Strengths: Treadwear, wet performance, price
- Trade-offs: Not designed for heavy snow
8. Falken Ziex ZE960 A/S — Sporty All-Season Performance
Why it stands out
Falken’s Ziex ZE960 A/S provides engaging road feedback and sporty grip in both wet and dry conditions, while still accommodating light snow with its all-season tread design.
Best for
- Drivers who enjoy spirited driving
- Younger car owners
- Urban and suburban commuters
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season UHP (Ultra High Performance)
- Popular sizes: 225/45R17, 235/40R18, 245/40R18
- Strengths: Handling, wet grip, value
- Trade-offs: Shorter tread life than touring tyres
9. Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 — Summer Performance Standout
Why it stands out
The Indy 500 is a summer specialist, offering razor-sharp dry handling and strong wet braking. Its aggressive tread is ideal for drivers seeking maximum warm-weather grip.
Best for
- Enthusiasts and sporty sedan owners
- Summer-only vehicles
Key notes
- Season/Type: Summer performance
- Popular sizes: 225/45R17, 235/40R18, 245/40R18
- Strengths: Dry/wet handling, steering feel
- Trade-offs: Not for cold weather or snow
10. Hankook Kinergy PT (H737) — Quiet Value All-Rounder
Why it stands out
Kinergy PT (H737) is a budget-friendly option with a focus on quietness, comfort, and impressive treadwear. It’s a reliable pick for everyday use in most US climates.
Best for
- Price-conscious shoppers
- Urban/suburban commuters
- Owners of older or economy vehicles
Key notes
- Season/Type: All-season
- Popular sizes: 205/60R16, 215/55R17, 225/60R17
- Strengths: Price, quiet ride, tread life
- Trade-offs: Average snow grip, less dynamic handling
Buying Tips
- Fitment: Always match tyre size, load, and speed ratings to your vehicle’s OEM specifications. Check your owner’s manual or the driver’s door sticker.
- Speed/Load Index: Don’t downgrade from the manufacturer’s recommendations, especially for crossovers or heavier sedans.
- Rotations: Rotate tyres every 5,000–8,000 miles to maximize lifespan and even wear.
- Storage: Store off-season or unused tyres in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and chemicals. For summer tyres, avoid storing below freezing temperatures.
- Alignment: Check wheel alignment annually or whenever you notice uneven wear, pulling, or after a significant impact.
Verdict
Choosing between all-season and summer tyres depends on your climate and driving style. For those in regions with variable weather—including light snow—premium all-weather options like the Michelin CrossClimate 2 or Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady provide year-round security. Drivers prioritizing comfort and quiet will appreciate the Continental PureContact LS or Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack. Budget-conscious shoppers should look at the General Altimax RT43 and Hankook Kinergy PT, both offering solid value and reliability. Enthusiasts who drive only in warmer months will find maximum performance in the Firestone Firehawk Indy 500. Match your tyre to your driving needs, and always prioritize safety and fitment for the best experience.
For someone living in the Midwest who faces occasional but unpredictable snow, would the Michelin CrossClimate 2 or the Continental PureContact LS be a safer long-term bet?
For Midwest drivers with unpredictable snow, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 is generally the safer long-term choice. Its all-weather design handles snow and cold much better than the PureContact LS, which leans more toward dry and wet conditions. The CrossClimate 2 gives you reliable traction during unexpected winter events without sacrificing comfort or tread life.
Is the premium price tag on the Michelin CrossClimate 2 justified if we only rarely get light snow in our area, or should I stick with something like the PureContact LS for mostly rain and dry conditions?
If you rarely see snow, the Continental PureContact LS is a strong choice—it excels in rain and dry conditions at a lower price. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 shines in snow and unpredictable weather, but for mostly mild climates, its premium may not be necessary. PureContact LS should serve you well.
You mention durability using UTQG ratings, but are there specific treadwear numbers for these two tires, and how do they stack up in real-world use?
The article lists the Michelin Defender T+H with a UTQG treadwear rating of 820 and the Continental TrueContact Tour with a 800 rating. In real-world use, both tires are known for their long tread life, often lasting 70,000 miles or more if maintained properly, with the Michelin Defender T+H typically getting slightly better wear in owner reports.
Do these tyres require any special maintenance routines or rotation schedules to maximize their longevity, especially given their all-season or all-weather designs?
To maximize the longevity of both all-season and summer tyres, follow standard maintenance routines: check tyre pressure monthly, rotate tyres every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, and inspect for uneven wear or damage. All-weather designs don’t require special routines, but regular balancing, alignment checks, and keeping tyres clean will help them perform well across seasons.
We get a few heavy snowfalls every winter where I am. Would I be taking a big risk by relying on the CrossClimate 2, or is it better to keep dedicated winter tyres just in case?
The CrossClimate 2 performs very well in light to moderate snow and is one of the best all-season options for winter traction. However, if you regularly experience heavy snowfalls, dedicated winter tires are still safer—they provide superior grip and braking in deep snow and icy conditions. For frequent or severe winter weather, switching to true winter tires is the better choice.
How do the UTQG treadwear ratings for these top picks actually translate to real-world mileage? Have you noticed any big differences between brands in that regard?
UTQG treadwear ratings give a general idea of how long a tire might last, but real-world mileage can vary due to driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance. Some brands do tend to outlast others even with similar ratings—Michelin and Continental, for example, are often reported to deliver more miles than some competitors. Still, actual results can differ depending on your specific use.
Regarding the Comfort Ride Technology in the PureContact LS, can you clarify how noticeable the difference in cabin noise and ride comfort is compared to regular touring tyres?
Comfort Ride Technology in the PureContact LS uses a specialized underlay beneath the tread to dampen vibrations. Most drivers report a modest but noticeable reduction in road noise and a smoother feel over rough surfaces compared to standard touring tires, especially on highways. The difference is subtle rather than dramatic, but it adds to overall ride comfort, particularly on longer drives.
Are there any specific sizes or models from the top two tyres that tend to be in short supply or have wait times in the US?
For the top two tyres listed, some popular sizes—especially for widely used sedans and crossovers—can see occasional shortages, particularly during the seasonal changeover or peak demand months. Larger rim sizes and newer models sometimes have longer wait times, so it’s a good idea to check availability early and consider pre-ordering if your vehicle uses non-standard sizes.