Are you in the market for an all-season tire that can handle winter weather but aren’t sure where to start? With so many options available, finding the right tire that balances performance, safety, and cost can be overwhelming. This article will help you navigate the selection process by focusing on the top five Grand Touring All-Season tires that excel in winter conditions, making your decision easier and more informed.
The Michelin CrossClimate 2, Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady, Firestone WeatherGrip, General AltiMAX 365 AW, and Vredestein Quatrac Pro stand out for their superior performance in light snow, deep snow, and icy conditions. These tires offer a range of options for different budgets and driving needs, ensuring you find the best fit for your winter driving requirements.
In this article, we’ll explore the winter performance metrics of these top contenders, comparing how they stack up against each other in various conditions. Whether you’re looking for premium performance or the best value, we’ve got you covered with detailed insights into each tire’s strengths and potential drawbacks.
Side-By-Side Comparisons
Price Comparison
| Tire | Price Category |
|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | Premium |
| Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady | Premium |
| Firestone WeatherGrip | Average |
| General AltiMAX 365 AW | Average |
| Vredestein Quatrac Pro | Budget |
Winter/Snow Performance
| Tire | Light Snow Traction | Deep Snow Traction | Ice Traction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.2 | 8.8 | 8.5 |
| Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady | 8.8 | 8.3 | 8.0 |
| Firestone WeatherGrip | 8.9 | 8.3 | 7.9 |
| General AltiMAX 365 AW | 8.5 | 8.1 | 7.7 |
| Vredestein Quatrac Pro | 8.7 | 8.1 | 7.7 |
Wet Performance
| Tire | Hydroplaning Resistance | Wet Traction |
|---|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.4 | 9.4 |
| Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady | 9.0 | 9.1 |
| Firestone WeatherGrip | 8.8 | 8.9 |
| General AltiMAX 365 AW | 8.8 | 8.8 |
| Vredestein Quatrac Pro | 9.0 | 9.1 |
Dry Performance
| Tire | Corner Stability | Dry Traction | Steering Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.4 | 9.5 | 9.3 |
| Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady | 9.2 | 9.4 | 9.2 |
| Firestone WeatherGrip | 8.9 | 9.1 | 8.8 |
| General AltiMAX 365 AW | 8.9 | 9.2 | 8.9 |
| Vredestein Quatrac Pro | 9.1 | 9.3 | 9.0 |
Comfort Performance
| Tire | Ride Quality | Noise |
|---|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.2 | 8.6 |
| Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady | 8.8 | 8.4 |
| Firestone WeatherGrip | 8.6 | 8.0 |
| General AltiMAX 365 AW | 8.8 | 8.5 |
| Vredestein Quatrac Pro | 9.0 | 8.7 |
Treadwear Performance
| Tire | Treadwear |
|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.1 |
| Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady | 8.7 |
| Firestone WeatherGrip | 7.7 |
| General AltiMAX 365 AW | 8.5 |
| Vredestein Quatrac Pro | 8.3 |
Michelin CrossClimate 2
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
9.0 of 10
Wet Weather
9.2 of 10
Winter Weather
8.3 of 10
Treadwear
9.0 of 10
Dry Weather
9.4 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.8 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 640
UTQG Traction Rating: B
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 60,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.0 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.2 of 10
Cornering: 9.2 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.4 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.0 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.3 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 7.6 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.4 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.9 of 10
Road Noise: 8.8 of 10
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 stands out as a top-tier option in the Grand Touring All-Season category, especially for drivers who prioritize winter performance. Although it’s one of the more expensive choices in its class, the CrossClimate 2 justifies its premium price with exceptional performance across several key metrics:
- Light Snow Traction: Ranks first in its category, providing the best grip in light snow conditions.
- Deep Snow Traction: Unmatched performance in deeper snow, making it a top choice for challenging snowy environments.
- Ice Traction: Ties for first place, offering superior control on icy roads compared to other all-season tires.
Overall Performance
When compared to the other top 30 Grand Touring All-Season tires, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 consistently ranks at the top. Its strengths are not limited to winter conditions:
- Wet Performance: With a score of 9.4, the CrossClimate 2 excels in wet conditions, including hydroplaning resistance and wet traction.
- Dry Performance: The tire’s dry performance is equally impressive, scoring 9.4 for corner stability, dry traction, and steering response.
- Comfort: Offers a smooth and quiet ride, with a comfort rating of 8.9, which is above average in its category.
- Treadwear: A treadwear rating of 9.1 indicates excellent durability, making it a long-lasting option for those seeking both performance and longevity.
Common Problems
Despite its many strengths, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 is not without its drawbacks. Some common issues reported by users online include:
- Price: The most frequently mentioned concern is the high price point, which can be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers.
- Noise Levels: While generally praised for comfort, some users have noted that the tire can become noisier as it wears down, especially on rougher road surfaces.
- Fuel Efficiency: A few reviews mention that the tire’s performance-oriented design may lead to slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to other all-season tires.
Value Comparison
In terms of value, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 presents a compelling case for drivers willing to invest in premium performance. Here’s how it compares:
- Price vs. Performance: While the CrossClimate 2 is one of the more expensive options, its top-tier performance, particularly in winter conditions, justifies the higher cost for those who prioritize safety and reliability in all weather conditions.
- Treadwear vs. Cost: The tire’s treadwear rating of 9.1 indicates excellent longevity, meaning that over time, the cost per mile driven is competitive with, if not better than, less expensive alternatives that wear out more quickly.
- Overall Value: For drivers who face a variety of weather conditions throughout the year and want a tire that performs exceptionally well in all of them, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 offers a strong value proposition, particularly when considering its combination of performance and durability.
In summary, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 is a premium tire that delivers outstanding performance across the board. While it comes with a higher price tag, its exceptional winter capabilities, combined with strong performance in wet and dry conditions, make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking reliability and safety year-round.
Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.7 of 10
Wet Weather
9.0 of 10
Winter Weather
8.4 of 10
Treadwear
8.7 of 10
Dry Weather
9.2 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.6 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 700
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 60,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.0 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.1 of 10
Cornering: 9.2 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.4 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.2 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.8 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.3 of 10
Ice Grip: 8.0 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.8 of 10
Road Noise: 8.4 of 10
The Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady is a well-rounded option in the Grand Touring All-Season category, offering strong winter performance at a slightly lower price point than some premium competitors like the Michelin CrossClimate 2. While it may not top the charts in every category, it provides a reliable and balanced performance that makes it an excellent choice for drivers facing a variety of winter conditions.
- Light Snow Traction: Ranks 7th in its category, offering reliable grip in light snow conditions, well above average among its peers.
- Deep Snow Traction: Ties for 4th place, making it a strong contender for handling deeper snow.
- Ice Traction: Tied for 4th place, with performance that ranks among the better options in this category for icy conditions.
Overall Performance
In comparison to the top 30 Grand Touring All-Season tires evaluated, the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady holds its own, particularly in winter performance:
- Wet Performance: With a score of 9.0, the WeatherReady delivers excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, ensuring confidence on rainy days.
- Dry Performance: The tire performs admirably in dry conditions, scoring 9.2, with strong corner stability, dry traction, and steering response.
- Comfort: It offers a smooth and comfortable ride, with a comfort rating of 8.6, making it a solid choice for daily driving.
- Treadwear: The WeatherReady boasts a treadwear rating of 8.7, providing good durability and value over the life of the tire.
Common Problems
While the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady is generally well-regarded, some users have reported a few issues:
- Road Noise: Some drivers have mentioned that the tire can become slightly noisy as it wears down, particularly on rougher roads.
- Handling in Extreme Conditions: Although it performs well in a range of winter conditions, a few users noted that it might not be as effective in extremely icy or snowy environments as some dedicated winter tires.
Value Comparison
The Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady offers a strong balance of performance and value, making it an attractive option for many drivers. Here’s how it compares:
- Price vs. Performance: While less expensive than some premium options, the WeatherReady still delivers excellent winter and all-season performance, making it a great value for those who want solid reliability without the premium price.
- Treadwear vs. Cost: With a treadwear rating of 8.7, the WeatherReady offers good longevity, ensuring that its cost per mile remains competitive, even when compared to less expensive options.
- Overall Value: For drivers who encounter a range of weather conditions and need a reliable tire that performs well in both winter and non-winter conditions, the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady provides excellent value and performance at a reasonable price point.
In summary, the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady is a versatile tire that delivers strong winter performance and reliable all-season capabilities. Its balance of performance and value makes it an excellent choice for those looking for dependable year-round traction without breaking the bank.
Firestone WeatherGrip
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.4 of 10
Wet Weather
8.9 of 10
Winter Weather
8.4 of 10
Treadwear
7.7 of 10
Dry Weather
9.0 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.3 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 640
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
5 Years / 65,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.8 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.9 of 10
Cornering: 8.9 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.1 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.8 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.9 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.3 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.9 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.6 of 10
Road Noise: 8.0 of 10
The Firestone WeatherGrip is a mid-tier option in the Grand Touring All-Season category, offering very good winter performance at a more affordable price compared to premium tires like the Michelin CrossClimate 2 and Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady. While it doesn’t top the charts, it delivers reliable traction in various winter conditions, making it a solid choice for those seeking a balance between performance and cost.
- Light Snow Traction: Ranks 6th in its category, placing it above many competitors with strong grip in light snow conditions.
- Deep Snow Traction: Tied for 4th place, indicating reliable performance in moderate to deep snow.
- Ice Traction: Tied for 6th place, offering solid control on icy roads, though not the very best in its category.
Overall Performance
The Firestone WeatherGrip compares well to the other top 30 Grand Touring All-Season tires, particularly in winter weather, but also in other important areas:
- Wet Performance: With a score of 8.9, the WeatherGrip provides excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, ensuring safety in rainy conditions.
- Dry Performance: The tire scores 9.0 in dry conditions, delivering good corner stability, dry traction, and steering response for everyday driving.
- Comfort: The WeatherGrip offers a good balance of ride quality and noise levels, with a comfort rating of 8.3, which is solid but slightly lower than some of the more premium options.
- Treadwear: With a treadwear rating of 7.7, this tire offers decent longevity, though it may not last as long as some higher-end competitors.
Common Problems
While the Firestone WeatherGrip generally performs well, some users have noted a few potential drawbacks:
- Treadwear: Some drivers have reported that the tire wears faster than expected, particularly in areas with rough roads or extreme conditions.
- Noise Levels: A few users have mentioned that the tire can become slightly noisy over time, especially as it nears the end of its tread life.
- Wet Traction in Heavy Rain: While the tire performs well in most wet conditions, some users have noted a slight decrease in traction during heavy rainstorms compared to premium competitors.
Value Comparison
The Firestone WeatherGrip offers a strong value proposition for those looking for good winter performance without the premium price tag. Here’s how it compares:
- Price vs. Performance: As a more affordable option, the WeatherGrip delivers excellent winter and all-season performance, making it a great value for budget-conscious drivers who still want reliable traction in varying conditions.
- Treadwear vs. Cost: With a treadwear rating of 7.7, the WeatherGrip provides decent durability. While it may not last as long as more expensive options, its lower price point helps balance the overall cost per mile.
- Overall Value: For drivers seeking a mid-tier tire that offers reliable winter performance and good all-season capabilities, the Firestone WeatherGrip presents a balanced option that delivers solid value without breaking the bank.
In summary, the Firestone WeatherGrip is a dependable mid-tier tire that offers a strong balance of winter performance and affordability. While it may not have the longevity of some higher-priced options, it provides reliable traction and comfort, making it a great choice for drivers looking for a well-rounded tire on a budget.
General AltiMAX 365 AW
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.6 of 10
Wet Weather
8.8 of 10
Winter Weather
8.1 of 10
Treadwear
8.5 of 10
Dry Weather
9.0 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.6 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 640
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 60,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.8 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.8 of 10
Cornering: 8.9 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.2 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.9 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.5 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.1 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.7 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.8 of 10
Road Noise: 8.5 of 10
The General AltiMAX 365 AW is a mid-tier option in the Grand Touring All-Season category, offering dependable winter performance at an affordable price. While it doesn’t lead the pack in any specific area, it provides solid, well-rounded performance that makes it a great choice for budget-conscious drivers who still need reliable traction in winter conditions.
- Light Snow Traction: Ranks 9th in its category with a score of 8.5, offering good performance for handling lighter snow conditions.
- Deep Snow Traction: Tied for 8th place with a score of 8.1, delivering reliable traction in more challenging snow-covered environments.
- Ice Traction: Tied for 9th place with a score of 7.7, providing decent control on icy surfaces, though not as high-performing as some of the top contenders.
Overall Performance
When compared to the other top 30 Grand Touring All-Season tires, the General AltiMAX 365 AW offers solid performance, especially considering its price point:
- Wet Performance: With a score of 8.8, the AltiMAX 365 AW offers excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, ensuring safe driving in rainy conditions.
- Dry Performance: The tire performs well in dry conditions, scoring 9.0, with good corner stability, dry traction, and steering response.
- Comfort: This tire provides a comfortable ride, with a comfort rating of 8.6, which is competitive with other options in its price range.
- Treadwear: With a treadwear rating of 8.5, the AltiMAX 365 AW offers good durability, making it a reliable choice for drivers looking to get the most out of their tire investment.
Common Problems
While the General AltiMAX 365 AW is generally well-received, some users have pointed out a few potential issues:
- Winter Traction in Extreme Conditions: Although it performs well in moderate winter conditions, some users have noted that it may not provide the best traction in more extreme snow or ice compared to higher-end tires.
- Noise Levels: A few drivers have reported that the tire can become slightly noisy as it wears, particularly on rougher roads.
- Wet Traction Under Heavy Load: While the tire generally performs well in wet conditions, some users have observed a slight reduction in traction when driving with a heavy load in wet weather.
Value Comparison
The General AltiMAX 365 AW offers a strong value proposition, particularly for those on a budget. Here’s how it compares:
- Price vs. Performance: As a more budget-friendly option, the AltiMAX 365 AW delivers good winter and all-season performance, making it an excellent choice for drivers who need reliable traction without paying a premium price.
- Treadwear vs. Cost: With a treadwear rating of 8.5, this tire provides good durability for its price, ensuring that it offers solid value over its lifespan.
- Overall Value: For drivers seeking a cost-effective tire that still performs well in a variety of conditions, the General AltiMAX 365 AW offers dependable traction and comfort, making it a great choice for those prioritizing value over premium features.
In summary, the General AltiMAX 365 AW is a dependable mid-tier tire that delivers solid winter performance at an affordable price. While it may not excel in extreme conditions, it provides reliable traction and comfort, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious drivers looking for a well-rounded tire.
Vredestein Quatrac Pro
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.7 of 10
Wet Weather
9.1 of 10
Winter Weather
8.2 of 10
Treadwear
8.3 of 10
Dry Weather
9.1 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.8 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 400
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
8 Years / 50,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.0 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.1 of 10
Cornering: 9.1 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.3 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.0 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.7 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.1 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.7 of 10
Comfort Level: 9.0 of 10
Road Noise: 8.7 of 10
The Vredestein Quatrac Pro is a budget-friendly option in the Grand Touring All-Season category that still offers good winter performance. While it doesn’t compete with premium tires in every category, it provides a solid balance of performance across various conditions, making it a reliable choice for drivers who need decent winter traction without the premium price tag.
- Light Snow Traction: Ranks 8th in its category with a score of 8.7, providing solid grip in lighter snow conditions, making it a dependable option for milder winter weather.
- Deep Snow Traction: Tied for 8th place with a score of 8.1, the Quatrac Pro offers reliable performance in more challenging snow-covered environments.
- Ice Traction: Ranks 9th with a score of 7.7, offering decent control on icy surfaces, though it lags slightly behind some higher-performing options in this category.
Overall Performance
Compared to the top 30 Grand Touring All-Season tires evaluated, the Vredestein Quatrac Pro holds its own, especially given its lower price point:
- Wet Performance: The Quatrac Pro scores 9.0 in wet conditions, delivering excellent traction and hydroplaning resistance, which ensures confident driving in the rain.
- Dry Performance: With a score of 9.1, this tire provides strong corner stability, dry traction, and steering response, making it a well-rounded option for year-round use.
- Comfort: The tire offers a comfortable ride, with a comfort rating of 8.8, placing it among the better options in its price range for noise and ride quality.
- Treadwear: With a treadwear rating of 8.3, the Quatrac Pro provides good durability, though it may not last as long as some premium competitors.
Common Problems
While the Vredestein Quatrac Pro generally performs well, some users have noted a few potential issues:
- Winter Performance in Extreme Conditions: Although it handles light to moderate snow well, some drivers have found that its performance drops off in more extreme winter conditions, particularly on ice.
- Treadwear: A few users have reported that the tire wears faster than expected, especially when used extensively in more demanding conditions.
- Road Noise: While the tire is generally quiet, some users have mentioned that it can become noisier as it wears down.
Value Comparison
The Vredestein Quatrac Pro offers a strong value proposition, especially for those looking for good performance without a high price tag. Here’s how it compares:
- Price vs. Performance: As one of the more budget-friendly options, the Quatrac Pro delivers good all-season and winter performance, making it an excellent value for drivers who need reliable traction without spending too much.
- Treadwear vs. Cost: With a treadwear rating of 8.3, the Quatrac Pro offers reasonable durability for its price. While it may not last as long as some more expensive options, its lower cost helps balance the overall value per mile driven.
- Overall Value: For drivers seeking an affordable tire that still performs well in a variety of conditions, the Vredestein Quatrac Pro provides a balanced mix of winter capability, comfort, and durability, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious consumers.
In summary, the Vredestein Quatrac Pro is an affordable and dependable tire that offers good winter performance and well-rounded capabilities. While it may not excel in extreme conditions or have the longest lifespan, it delivers solid value and reliable traction, making it a smart choice for those looking to save money without sacrificing essential performance.
All-Season Tires Vs Snow Tires
All-season tires are a compromise. They need to work well as summer tires, in wet conditions, light snow, and milder winter weather conditions. Winter tires are specialists. They can handle extreme winter weather and heavy snow-covered roads more easily, but the rubber that is designed to stay flexible in extremely cold weather can’t handle warm weather.
An all-season tire will not perform as well as winter tires for deep snow and more extreme winter weather conditions. But there are some really amazing all-season tires on the market today that can handle light snow and still perform well all year long.
To get the best snow tires that are still all-season tires, you likely want to consider a tire with the 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMS) symbol. This means the tire has passed a standard for winter and snow tire performance.
You’ll notice many of the tires on this list are marked with a 3PMS symbol, but not all. Some tires will only have a Mud & Snow (M+S) symbol but still perform extremely well in winter conditions for an all-season tire. We strongly recommend not solely relying on this symbol when considering an all-season tire that will occasionally see heavier winter weather conditions.
Real-world performance can sometimes trump tests that can’t give a more well-rounded picture of how a tire will handle snowy weather.
Traditional all-season tires optimize more for wet conditions and warm weather than they do for snow and freezing temperatures. An all-weather tire is a subset of all-season tires that are designed for the driver that sees more snow and winter extremes but not so much they need winter tires.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
- Are all-season tires okay in the snow? – LesSchwab.com
- Comparing winter & snow tires vs. all-season tires – Bridgestone
- Consumer ratings – Tire Rack
Final Thoughts
Each of the five tires reviewed in this article brings something unique to the table in terms of winter weather performance.
- The Michelin CrossClimate 2 leads the pack with outstanding traction in light and deep snow, as well as superior ice control, making it the top choice for those who demand the best.
- The Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady offers a well-rounded performance with strong snow and ice traction at a slightly lower price point, providing great value for those who want reliability without going for the most expensive option.
- The Firestone WeatherGrip and General AltiMAX 365 AW are excellent mid-tier choices, delivering solid winter performance at more affordable prices. They both handle snow and ice well, though they may not match the premium tires in extreme conditions.
- Lastly, the Vredestein Quatrac Pro stands out as a budget-friendly option that still performs admirably in winter weather, offering a good balance of performance and cost.
Overall, these five tires offer a range of options to suit different budgets and winter driving needs. Whether you prioritize top-tier performance, solid value, or affordability, there’s a tire in this list that will help you stay safe and confident on the road this winter.
Good luck and happy motoring.
