Need a tire that can handle your crossover or SUV with comfort and confidence in all seasons? The Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology is an option, though its ratings suggest some important trade-offs. But how does it compare to other crossover touring options, and what compromises should you consider?
The Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology brings confident dry handling, reliable wet traction, and a comfortable ride to the table, making it a compelling choice in the crossover/suv touring all-season segment. However, limited winter traction and shorter tread life expectations could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
We’ve put together a comprehensive look at the Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology and what it has to offer. We put it head-to-head with competitors including the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive at the premium end, the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 in the middle, and the affordable Continental CrossContact LX25. Plus, we address common complaints and dig into the real-world performance data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Price Comparison
| Tire | Price Category |
|---|---|
| Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology | Mid-Priced |
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | Premium |
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | Mid-Priced |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | Budget |
Wet Performance
| Tire | Hydroplaning Resistance | Wet Traction |
|---|---|---|
| Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology | 8.6 | 8.6 |
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.3 | 9.4 |
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | 9.1 | 9.2 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 9.1 | 9.2 |
Dry Performance
| Tire | Corner Stability | Dry Traction | Steering Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology | 8.7 | 8.7 | 8.7 |
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.5 | 9.6 | 9.4 |
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | 9.4 | 9.5 | 9.3 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 9.3 | 9.5 | 9.3 |
Comfort Performance
| Tire | Ride Quality | Noise |
|---|---|---|
| Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology | 8.4 | 8.4 |
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 9.2 | 8.9 |
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | 9.2 | 9.1 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 9.2 | 8.9 |
Treadwear Performance
| Tire | Treadwear |
|---|---|
| Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology | 7.7 |
| Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive | 8.9 |
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | 8.9 |
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | 9.1 |
Detailed Review
Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology
Customer Ratings
Overall Rating
6.8 of 10
Wet Weather
8.6 of 10
Winter Weather
7.4 of 10
Dry Weather
8.7 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.4 of 10
Tread Wear
7.7 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 680-740
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: B-A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 70,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.6 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.6 of 10
Cornering: 8.7 of 10
Dry Grip: 8.7 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.7 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 7.4 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 7.4 of 10
Ice Grip: N/A
Comfort Level: 8.4 of 10
Road Noise: 8.4 of 10
The Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology competes in the crossover/suv touring all-season segment but falls short of top performers in key areas. It may suit budget-conscious drivers willing to accept trade-offs in grip, comfort, or longevity compared to higher-rated alternatives.
Dry Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology performs well on dry pavement with predictable handling and good traction. Steering response is confident, and the tire maintains composure through corners. Most drivers will find the dry performance more than adequate for daily driving. Compared to others in its category, it delivers stronger dry traction and handling than most of the competition.
Wet Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
In wet conditions, the Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology provides reliable traction and good hydroplaning resistance. The tread design effectively evacuates water, giving you confidence during rainstorms. Most drivers will appreciate the predictable wet weather behavior. Compared to others in its category, it delivers stronger wet traction and hydroplaning resistance than most of the competition.
Ride Comfort and Noise Level
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology provides a comfortable ride for most drivers. However, some users have noticed that the tire produces a slightly higher level of road noise, especially on paved surfaces. While the ride remains smooth, this extra noise might be noticeable on longer highway trips. Compared to others in its category, it delivers stronger ride comfort and noise control than most of the competition.
Winter/Snow Performance
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
Winter performance is limited with this tire. While it can handle light dustings, it struggles in deeper snow and icy conditions. Drivers in areas with regular winter weather should consider dedicated snow tires or a more winter-capable all-season option. Within its category, it stands out as one of the top performers for winter and snow traction.
Treadwear and Longevity
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
Treadwear is respectable for this tire category. With proper maintenance including regular rotations and correct inflation, you can expect reasonable longevity. Driving style and road conditions will naturally affect how long the tires last. Compared to others in its category, it delivers stronger tread life and longevity than most of the competition.
Pros
- Strong dry road performance
- Responsive steering and stable handling
- Budget-friendly price point
- Widely available tire sizes
Cons
- Slightly elevated road noise on paved surfaces
- Less effective traction in light snow and icy conditions
- Tread life may be shorter than touring alternatives
- May not suit all driving styles
Value Analysis
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology delivers outstanding value in the mid-range segment. Its performance ratings consistently exceed what you’d expect at this price point, and reasonable longevity when properly maintained adds to the long-term return on investment. For drivers seeking reliable crossover/suv touring all-season performance, this tire punches well above its weight.
The Verdict
Well Above Average
Above Average
Average
Below Average
Well Below Average
The Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology is a budget option with notable trade-offs in balanced performance and reliability. It excels on dry roads and wet conditions and shows good overall balance. However, if you are sensitive to road noise or often drive in light snow and icy conditions, you might want to consider other alternatives. Overall, this tire may leave you wanting more. Consider the alternatives discussed above before committing, especially if well-rounded performance is a priority.
Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology Problems
While the Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology is a capable tire, real-world feedback from drivers has highlighted a few areas of concern. These include faster than expected tread wear, challenges in light snow, ice, or slush, and a bit more road noise. It’s important to note that many of these issues are reported by a minority of owners and can often be mitigated with proper maintenance like keeping the right air pressure, regular rotations, and proper alignment.
Understanding these concerns can help you decide if this tire is the right choice for your driving needs.
Tread Wear Patterns
Rare
Occasional
Notable
Common
Several reviews mention faster than expected tread wear or uneven wear patterns on the Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology. Some drivers report cupping or feathering, particularly when alignment or rotation schedules aren’t maintained.
Light Snow, Ice, and Slush Performance
Rare
Occasional
Notable
Common
Some drivers have noted that the Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology can feel less confident in light snow, slush, or on icy surfaces. While deep snow traction is generally adequate, packed snow, slush, and glazed or black ice conditions can be more challenging compared to dedicated winter tires.
Road Noise
Typical
While many say the tire is quiet for its design, a few drivers have reported that it makes more road noise than factory tires or some premium options. This can be especially noticeable on paved roads.
Balancing and Installation Issues
Typical
A few reports mention problems during mounting or balancing the tire. Some drivers experienced vibrations or a wobbling feeling when the tires were new, which might require extra adjustments to get a smooth ride.
The Bottomline
While the Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology is a strong tire overall, it is not without its concerns. Issues such as shorter tread life, reduced traction in light snow, ice, or slush, higher road noise have been noted by some drivers. If these problems worry you, consider looking into our recommended alternatives.
Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology Alternatives
While the Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology is a strong tire overall, some drivers have noted its extra road noise and lower performance in light snow or icy conditions. If these issues are a concern for you, consider these recommended alternatives.
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive
Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive
Overall: A premium crossover/suv touring all-season tire known for its proven durability and high performance, the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive is built for drivers who demand the best. It offers a robust performance package that can address some of the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology’s concerns.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, matching or exceeding the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology’s strong wet performance.
- Dry Weather: Excels in dry traction, corner stability, and steering response, matching or surpassing the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology’s dry performance.
- Winter Performance: Performs well in winter conditions with strong snow traction, matching or exceeding the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology’s winter capability.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for excellent comfort and treadwear, offering a quieter ride and longer tread life than the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology.
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
Overall: The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is a well-balanced, average-priced tire that offers a good mix of performance and value. It delivers solid traction in most conditions and represents a strong alternative at its price point.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, matching or exceeding the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology’s strong wet performance.
- Dry Weather: Excels in dry traction, corner stability, and steering response, matching or surpassing the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology’s dry performance.
- Winter Performance: Performs well in winter conditions with strong snow traction, matching or exceeding the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology’s winter capability, though ice traction remains limited.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for excellent comfort and treadwear, offering a quieter ride and longer tread life than the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology.
Continental CrossContact LX25
Continental CrossContact LX25
Overall: A budget-friendly option, the Continental CrossContact LX25 offers good value for drivers who want reliable performance without a high price tag. While it may not match the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology in every area, it stands out as a strong performer for its cost.
Performance Highlights:
- Wet Weather: Provides excellent wet traction and hydroplaning resistance, matching or exceeding the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology’s strong wet performance.
- Dry Weather: Excels in dry traction, corner stability, and steering response, matching or surpassing the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology’s dry performance.
- Winter Performance: Performs well in winter conditions with strong snow traction, matching or exceeding the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology’s winter capability, though ice traction remains limited.
- Comfort and Treadwear: Known for excellent comfort and treadwear, offering a quieter ride and longer tread life than the CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology.
Each of these alternative tires brings its own strengths to the table.
- The Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive is a premium choice with proven durability and strong performance in many conditions.
- The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 offers a balanced blend of performance and comfort at a solid average price.
- The Continental CrossContact LX25 is a budget-friendly option that delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Depending on your driving needs and what matters most to you, these tires can be great alternatives to the Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
Final Thoughts
The Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology falls short of category leaders, with its strongest showing in strong dry and wet traction. Drivers on a tight budget may find it serviceable, but those who prioritize all-around dependability should weigh the trade-offs carefully.
However, it’s important to note some of its drawbacks. Some drivers have also reported increased road noise Less reliable traction in light snow or on icy roads. While these issues are not widespread, they are worth considering if you have specific performance needs.
In the end, the Continental CrossContact LX20 with EcoPlus Technology sits near the bottom of its category in overall ratings. Consider alternatives like the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive, Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3, and the Continental CrossContact LX25 before committing, as they offer meaningfully better performance in key areas. If budget is the deciding factor, this tire may still work for light-duty use — but go in with realistic expectations about the issues mentioned above.
Good luck and happy motoring.
