Trying to find the best budget all-season tire for your vehicle but overwhelmed by the sheer number of options out there? You’re not alone. With countless brands and models claiming to offer the perfect mix of performance and value, it can be tough to know which ones actually live up to the hype. In this review, we’re going to break down five of the best budget-friendly all-season tires so you can make an informed decision.
- The Michelin Defender2 provides top-tier dry and wet performance, along with exceptional treadwear.
- The Goodyear Assurance MaxLife delivers similar all-around performance at a lower price.
- The Continental TrueContact Tour strikes a balance between strong dry traction and durability at a reasonable price.
- The Yokohama AVID Ascend LX offers great value for performance, though it sacrifices some winter traction.
- The Hankook Kinergy ST offers solid dry traction at a bargain price, making it ideal for those seeking reliability on a tight budget.
In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the Michelin Defender2, Goodyear Assurance MaxLife, Continental TrueContact Tour, Yokohama AVID Ascend LX, and Hankook Kinergy ST. We’ll explore their key performance metrics, compare their real-world durability, and help you decide which one is the best fit for your driving style and budget.
Side-By-Side Comparison
Price Comparison
| Tire | Price Category |
|---|---|
| Michelin Defender2 | Premium |
| Goodyear Assurance MaxLife | Average |
| Continental TrueContact Tour | Average |
| Yokohama AVID Ascend LX | Budget |
| Hankook Kinergy ST | Budget |
Wet Performance
| Tire | Hydroplaning Resistance | Wet Traction |
|---|---|---|
| Michelin Defender2 | 9.1 | 9.1 |
| Goodyear Assurance MaxLife | 8.3 | 8.4 |
| Continental TrueContact Tour | 8.9 | 8.9 |
| Yokohama AVID Ascend LX | 8.8 | 8.7 |
| Hankook Kinergy ST | 8.3 | 8.3 |
Dry Performance
| Tire | Corner Stability | Dry Traction | Steering Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin Defender2 | 9.4 | 9.5 | 9.4 |
| Goodyear Assurance MaxLife | 8.9 | 9.2 | 9.0 |
| Continental TrueContact Tour | 9.1 | 9.3 | 9.1 |
| Yokohama AVID Ascend LX | 9.1 | 9.3 | 9.2 |
| Hankook Kinergy ST | 8.7 | 8.9 | 8.8 |
Winter/Snow Performance
| Tire | Light Snow Traction | Deep Snow Traction | Ice Traction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin Defender2 | 8.4 | 8.0 | 7.5 |
| Goodyear Assurance MaxLife | 7.8 | 7.1 | 6.8 |
| Continental TrueContact Tour | 8.4 | 7.8 | 7.4 |
| Yokohama AVID Ascend LX | 8.2 | 7.7 | 7.2 |
| Hankook Kinergy ST | 7.4 | 6.5 | 6.1 |
Comfort Performance
| Tire | Ride Quality | Noise |
|---|---|---|
| Michelin Defender2 | 9.2 | 8.9 |
| Goodyear Assurance MaxLife | 8.7 | 8.2 |
| Continental TrueContact Tour | 9.0 | 8.7 |
| Yokohama AVID Ascend LX | 8.9 | 8.6 |
| Hankook Kinergy ST | 8.7 | 8.6 |
Treadwear Performance
| Tire | Treadwear |
|---|---|
| Michelin Defender2 | 9.2 |
| Goodyear Assurance MaxLife | 8.6 |
| Continental TrueContact Tour | 8.8 |
| Yokohama AVID Ascend LX | 8.6 |
| Hankook Kinergy ST | 8.4 |
Michelin Defender2
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.9 of 10
Wet Weather
9.1 of 10
Winter Weather
8.1 of 10
Tread Wear
9.2 of 10
Dry Weather
9.4 of 10
Ride Comfort
9.1 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 840
UTQG Traction Rating: B
UTQG Temperature Rating: B
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 80,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.1 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.0 of 10
Cornering: 9.4 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.5 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.4 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.5 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.2 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.7 of 10
Comfort Level: 9.2 of 10
Road Noise: 9.0 of 10
The Michelin Defender2 kicks off our list as the most expensive tire among these budget-friendly all-season options, but it justifies its cost with premium performance. Here are some key highlights:
- Dry Traction: 9.4 rating, excelling in corner stability and steering response.
- Wet Traction: 9.1 rating, providing confidence in rainy conditions.
- Winter Performance: Rated 8.0, it handles light snow well but struggles in deep snow or ice.
- Treadwear: 9.2 rating, ensuring long-lasting durability.
- Comfort: Smooth and quiet ride with a ride quality rating of 9.2 and noise rating of 8.9.
While it may be the priciest option, the Michelin Defender2 offers top-tier performance for those willing to invest a bit more upfront for durability and reliability.
Overall Performance
When compared to other all-season tires on this list, the Michelin Defender2 excels in multiple areas:
- Dry Traction: Leads the pack with a 9.4 rating, outpacing competitors like the Goodyear Assurance MaxLife (9.0) and Hankook Kinergy ST (8.8).
- Wet Traction: Superior with a 9.1 rating, performing better than the Yokohama AVID Ascend LX (8.7) and Hankook Kinergy ST (8.3).
- Comfort and Noise: The high ride quality (9.2) and low noise (8.9) contribute to a smooth and quiet driving experience.
Common Problems
Some common concerns drivers have expressed include:
- Winter Performance: With a winter traction rating of 8.0, the tire performs decently in light snow but lacks the grip of a true winter tire in deep snow and icy conditions.
- Price Sensitivity: The higher price point can be difficult to justify for those driving in mild climates where premium performance isn’t necessary.
Value Analysis
Despite being more expensive than most other tires, the Michelin Defender2 offers a great balance between price and longevity:
- Treadwear: The 9.2 treadwear rating means it outlasts competitors like the Goodyear Assurance MaxLife (8.6) and Continental TrueContact Tour (8.8).
- Cost Justification: The Michelin Defender2 may be priced higher, but for drivers focused on long-term durability and exceptional performance, this tire represents a solid investment.
Summary
The Michelin Defender2 delivers a combination of premium performance, long-lasting treadwear, and a smooth, quiet ride. For those willing to pay a little more upfront, it offers excellent value in the long run.
Goodyear Assurance MaxLife
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.4 of 10
Wet Weather
8.4 of 10
Winter Weather
7.3 of 10
Tread Wear
8.6 of 10
Dry Weather
9.1 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.5 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 820
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: B
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 85,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.4 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.5 of 10
Cornering: 9.0 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.2 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.0 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 7.9 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 7.2 of 10
Ice Grip: 6.9 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.8 of 10
Road Noise: 8.2 of 10
The Goodyear Assurance MaxLife offers a strong balance of performance and value, making it one of the more affordable high-performing options in this lineup. It delivers dependable traction in both wet and dry conditions, while also providing a comfortable and durable driving experience. Here’s a closer look at its key strengths:
- Dry Traction: 9.0 rating, ensuring solid grip and stability on dry roads.
- Wet Traction: 8.4 rating, offering reliable performance in rainy weather.
- Winter Performance: With a 7.2 rating, it’s suitable for mild winters but lacks grip in heavy snow and ice.
- Treadwear: 8.6 rating, indicating durability that is built to last for daily driving.
- Comfort: 8.4 overall rating, balancing ride quality (8.7) and noise control (8.2) for a pleasant driving experience.
The Goodyear Assurance MaxLife is a well-rounded tire that provides reliable performance without breaking the bank, offering a great middle-ground for drivers looking for a dependable, long-lasting tire.
Overall Performance
When comparing the Goodyear Assurance MaxLife to the other tires on this list, it holds its own with consistent performance across key metrics:
- Dry Traction: At a 9.0 rating, it performs similarly to other high-rated tires like the Michelin Defender2 (9.4) and Continental TrueContact Tour (9.1).
- Wet Traction: With an 8.4 rating, it lags slightly behind the Michelin Defender2 (9.1) but remains a reliable choice for wet conditions.
- Comfort: Offering a balance between ride quality (8.7) and noise reduction (8.2), the MaxLife provides a comfortable ride comparable to the Continental TrueContact Tour (8.9).
Common Problems
Despite its generally strong performance, the Goodyear Assurance MaxLife has a few recurring concerns raised by drivers:
- Winter Performance: Similar to many other all-season tires, it struggles in more severe winter conditions, with a rating of 7.2 for winter traction. While adequate for light snow, it’s not the best choice for those in areas with frequent snow or ice.
- Treadwear Longevity: Some users have reported that the tire’s actual lifespan doesn’t always meet expectations based on its treadwear rating, especially under heavy use.
Value Analysis
The Goodyear Assurance MaxLife delivers a compelling mix of performance and value:
- Treadwear: With an 8.6 treadwear rating, it offers good longevity for its price, though it doesn’t match the Michelin Defender2’s higher 9.2 rating.
- Cost Justification: As a mid-priced option, the MaxLife offers solid value. Its performance is consistent with its price, making it a great choice for drivers looking for dependable, long-lasting performance without stepping up to premium-priced tires.
Summary
The Goodyear Assurance MaxLife offers dependable performance in both dry and wet conditions, with a good balance of comfort and durability. While it may not excel in severe winter conditions, it provides great value for those seeking a reliable all-season tire at a reasonable price. Its combination of treadwear and overall performance makes it a strong contender for drivers looking for long-term value without the premium price tag.
Continental TrueContact Tour
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.9 of 10
Wet Weather
8.9 of 10
Winter Weather
7.9 of 10
Tread Wear
8.8 of 10
Dry Weather
9.1 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.8 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 800
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: B
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 80,000 Miles (T- & H-Speed Rated)
6 Years / 70,000 Miles (V-Speed Rated)
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.9 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.8 of 10
Cornering: 9.0 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.3 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.0 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.5 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 7.8 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.4 of 10
Comfort Level: 9.0 of 10
Road Noise: 8.7 of 10
The Continental TrueContact Tour is an excellent mid-range option, offering strong all-around performance at a reasonable price. This tire strikes a balance between comfort, durability, and traction, making it a popular choice for drivers who need reliability in varied weather conditions. Here are the key highlights of the TrueContact Tour:
- Dry Traction: 9.1 rating, providing excellent grip and corner stability on dry roads.
- Wet Traction: 8.9 rating, ensuring confidence and safety in rainy conditions.
- Winter Performance: Rated 7.9, it performs decently in light snow but may not handle severe winter conditions well.
- Comfort: 8.9 overall rating, delivering a smooth ride with minimal noise, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.
- Treadwear: 8.8 rating, designed to last for many miles, making it a durable option.
With its solid performance across the board, the Continental TrueContact Tour is a versatile tire that works well for drivers who want reliability without paying top-tier prices.
Overall Performance
When comparing the Continental TrueContact Tour to other tires on this list, it stands out for its balance of performance and value:
- Dry Traction: Its 9.1 rating is only slightly behind the Michelin Defender2 (9.4) and matches the Yokohama AVID Ascend LX (9.2), making it a strong competitor in dry conditions.
- Wet Traction: With an 8.9 rating, the TrueContact Tour performs better in the rain than the Goodyear Assurance MaxLife (8.4) and is close to the Michelin Defender2 (9.1), offering solid wet performance.
- Comfort: The 8.9 rating reflects a smooth ride with low noise levels, putting it on par with other comfortable options like the Michelin Defender2 (9.0).
Common Problems
While the Continental TrueContact Tour performs well overall, a few concerns have been mentioned by drivers:
- Winter Performance: Similar to many all-season tires, its winter traction rating of 7.9 indicates that it can handle light snow but may not be suitable for more extreme winter conditions. Drivers in areas with heavy snow or ice might find it lacking.
- Treadwear Consistency: Although the treadwear rating is high, some drivers have reported that the tire’s longevity can vary depending on driving habits and road conditions, with occasional uneven wear.
Value Analysis
The Continental TrueContact Tour offers a great balance between price and treadwear:
- Treadwear: With an 8.8 rating, it’s a durable option that competes well with the Goodyear Assurance MaxLife (8.6) and Yokohama AVID Ascend LX (8.6).
- Cost Justification: As a mid-priced tire, the TrueContact Tour provides excellent value for drivers seeking good performance without the premium price of higher-end models like the Michelin Defender2. Its treadwear and performance make it a strong option for those who want reliability and long-term use at a more affordable price.
Summary
The Continental TrueContact Tour delivers reliable performance across dry and wet conditions, with a focus on comfort and durability. Its solid treadwear rating ensures longevity, making it a strong choice for drivers looking for an all-season tire that performs well without breaking the bank. Although its winter performance isn’t ideal for harsher conditions, the TrueContact Tour provides excellent value for everyday driving needs in a wide range of climates.
Yokohama AVID Ascend LX
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.6 of 10
Wet Weather
8.8 of 10
Winter Weather
7.7 of 10
Tread Wear
8.7 of 10
Dry Weather
9.2 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.8 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 800
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: B
Mileage Warranty
5 Years / 85,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.8 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.7 of 10
Cornering: 9.1 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.3 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.1 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.2 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 7.8 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.2 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.9 of 10
Road Noise: 8.7 of 10
The Yokohama AVID Ascend LX is a budget-friendly all-season tire that strikes a great balance between affordability and performance. Designed for drivers looking to get reliable performance without spending too much, this tire delivers solid results in both dry and wet conditions, along with commendable durability. Let’s break down its key features:
- Dry Traction: 9.2 rating, providing excellent grip and stability on dry roads.
- Wet Traction: 8.7 rating, offering reliable performance in rainy weather, though not quite at the level of higher-priced options like the Michelin Defender2.
- Winter Performance: A 7.7 rating makes it reliable in light snow but less effective in deeper snow or ice.
- Treadwear: 8.6 rating, meaning it’s built to last for a reasonable amount of miles, offering good durability for the price.
- Comfort: 8.8 overall rating, combining smooth ride quality (8.9) and moderate noise levels (8.6).
As one of the more affordable options on this list, the Yokohama AVID Ascend LX offers reliable performance without cutting too many corners, making it a great choice for budget-conscious drivers.
Overall Performance
Compared to the other all-season tires in this lineup, the Yokohama AVID Ascend LX provides excellent value while still delivering solid performance in most areas:
- Dry Traction: With a rating of 9.2, the Ascend LX is right on par with the Michelin Defender2 (9.4) and performs better than the Goodyear Assurance MaxLife (9.0).
- Wet Traction: Its 8.7 rating places it below the Continental TrueContact Tour (8.9) and Michelin Defender2 (9.1), but it’s still a dependable option for wet conditions.
- Comfort: Offering a comfortable ride with low noise levels, its 8.8 comfort rating matches that of the Continental TrueContact Tour and is only slightly behind the Michelin Defender2 (9.0), providing an enjoyable driving experience for most users.
Common Problems
While the Yokohama AVID Ascend LX is well-regarded for its performance, some common issues have been raised by drivers:
- Winter Performance: Like many all-season tires, the Ascend LX has a lower rating in winter conditions (7.7). It handles light snow reasonably well but doesn’t offer the grip needed for more challenging winter weather.
- Wet Traction Under Heavy Rain: Though it performs well in mild wet conditions, some drivers have noted that the tire’s performance can suffer in heavier downpours, where hydroplaning becomes a slight concern.
Value Analysis
The Yokohama AVID Ascend LX offers strong value when you consider its price and treadwear:
- Treadwear: With an 8.6 rating, the Ascend LX delivers good durability, comparable to the Goodyear Assurance MaxLife (8.6) and just below the Continental TrueContact Tour (8.8).
- Cost Justification: As one of the more affordable tires on this list, the Ascend LX provides excellent value for the price. Its solid traction and longevity make it a standout choice for budget-conscious drivers who still want dependable performance.
Summary
The Yokohama AVID Ascend LX is a versatile and affordable option for drivers seeking reliable all-season performance without spending a fortune. Its strong dry traction, comfortable ride, and solid treadwear make it a dependable choice for daily driving. While it may not excel in harsh winter conditions or heavy rain, the Ascend LX offers great value for those who prioritize affordability and solid all-around performance.
Hankook Kinergy ST
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.2 of 10
Wet Weather
8.3 of 10
Winter Weather
6.9 of 10
Tread Wear
8.5 of 10
Dry Weather
8.8 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.7 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 680
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 70,000 Miles
Find The Best Price
Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.3 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.4 of 10
Cornering: 8.7 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.0 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.8 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 7.6 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 6.7 of 10
Ice Grip: 6.3 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.8 of 10
Road Noise: 8.7 of 10
The Hankook Kinergy ST is the most budget-friendly option on this list, offering dependable performance at a price that’s hard to beat. Designed for drivers looking to save money without sacrificing essential features, the Kinergy ST provides solid traction, comfort, and durability. Here are its key highlights:
- Dry Traction: 8.8 rating, delivering reliable grip and control in dry conditions.
- Wet Traction: 8.3 rating, making it a good, though not exceptional, option for rainy weather.
- Winter Performance: At 6.7, it’s not ideal for harsh winters but can handle light snow.
- Treadwear: 8.4 rating, offering decent longevity for the price, though not as durable as higher-end options.
- Comfort: 8.6 overall rating, with a smooth ride quality (8.7) and low noise (8.6) contributing to a comfortable driving experience.
As the most affordable tire on this list, the Hankook Kinergy ST provides a solid mix of performance and value, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious drivers who need a reliable tire for everyday use.
Overall Performance
While the Hankook Kinergy ST may not lead in any one category, it offers dependable all-around performance at a price that undercuts most competitors:
- Dry Traction: Its 8.8 rating is respectable, though it falls behind more expensive options like the Michelin Defender2 (9.4) and the Yokohama AVID Ascend LX (9.2).
- Wet Traction: With an 8.3 rating, it’s the lowest on this list in terms of wet performance, trailing options like the Continental TrueContact Tour (8.9) and the Goodyear Assurance MaxLife (8.4).
- Comfort: The 8.6 comfort rating is quite competitive, offering a ride experience that’s not far off from more expensive tires like the Continental TrueContact Tour (8.9) and Yokohama AVID Ascend LX (8.8).
Common Problems
Despite being a solid performer for the price, the Hankook Kinergy ST has a few concerns raised by drivers:
- Winter Performance: With a 6.7 rating in winter conditions, the Kinergy ST is not well-suited for snow or ice. Drivers in regions with harsh winters may find its performance lacking in these conditions.
- Treadwear Longevity: While the tire is budget-friendly, some users have reported that its treadwear rating of 8.4 doesn’t always translate to long-lasting durability, especially with heavy or aggressive driving.
Value Analysis
The Hankook Kinergy ST offers excellent value for drivers focused on keeping costs down:
- Treadwear: With an 8.4 rating, it provides decent longevity for its price but falls short of other tires in this comparison, such as the Michelin Defender2 (9.2) and Continental TrueContact Tour (8.8).
- Cost Justification: As the most affordable tire on this list, the Kinergy ST is a great option for budget-conscious drivers who need reliable, everyday performance. Though it may not match the longevity or wet traction of more expensive options, it delivers solid value for the price, especially for drivers in mild climates.
Summary
The Hankook Kinergy ST offers dependable, budget-friendly performance, making it an ideal choice for drivers who want to save money without sacrificing essential all-season capabilities. While it may not excel in wet or winter conditions, its solid dry traction, comfort, and affordability make it a great option for those seeking reliable daily driving performance at a lower price point.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
Final Thoughts
When it comes to finding a budget all-season tire that delivers, each of these five options has something to offer. The Michelin Defender2 leads the pack with its excellent dry and wet performance and long-lasting treadwear, making it ideal for drivers willing to invest a little more upfront. The Goodyear Assurance MaxLife provides solid all-around performance at a more accessible price point, while the Continental TrueContact Tour offers a balance of durability and comfort. If you’re seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Yokohama AVID Ascend LX stands out for its reliable traction and lower price, and the Hankook Kinergy ST rounds out the list as the best bargain option for those who need dependable, everyday performance.
Whether you’re prioritizing performance, longevity, or affordability, one of these tires will suit your needs. Compare their strengths and weaknesses to find the perfect match for your vehicle and driving conditions.
Good luck and happy motoring.
