Both the Continental CrossContact LX25 and the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 are highly regarded in the market, but each comes with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re looking for top-notch wet performance, a quiet and comfortable ride, or long-lasting durability, this article will help you navigate the pros and cons of these two tire giants.
The Continental CrossContact LX25 is excellent for wet and dry conditions with a comfortable ride, while the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 offers superior dry performance and a quieter driving experience.
In this article, we will compare the Continental CrossContact LX25 and Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 in terms of wet performance, dry traction and handling, winter performance, comfort and noise, and treadwear and durability. We’ll also explore other competitors in the market to provide a comprehensive view.
Continental CrossContact LX25
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
9.0 of 10
Wet Weather
9.1 of 10
Winter Weather
8.3 of 10
Tread Wear
9.1 of 10
Dry Weather
9.3 of 10
Ride Comfort
9.0 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 740
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: B
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 70,000 Miles (H- & T-Speed Rated)
6 Years / 65,000 Miles (V-Speed Rated)
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.1 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.2 of 10
Cornering: 9.3 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.4 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.2 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.8 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.2 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.8 of 10
Comfort Level: 9.2 of 10
Road Noise: 8.9 of 10
Alright, let’s dive into the Continental CrossContact LX25. Imagine you’re about to take your SUV or crossover on a long road trip. You want a tire that handles everything from wet roads to a smooth, quiet ride. That’s where the CrossContact LX25 steps in.
Key Performance Measurements
Wet Performance (9.1)
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.1
- Wet Traction: 9.2
Dry Performance (9.3)
- Corner Stability: 9.3
- Dry Traction: 9.5
- Steering Response: 9.2
Winter/Snow Performance (8.3)
- Light Snow Traction: 8.8
- Deep Snow Traction: 8.2
- Ice Traction: 7.8
Comfort (9.0)
- Ride Quality: 9.2
- Noise: 8.9
Treadwear (9.1)
This tire lasts. With a treadwear rating of 9.1, expect to get good mileage before needing a replacement. It’s built to go the distance.
Pros
- Great Wet and Dry Performance: Handles rain and dry roads with ease.
- Comfortable Ride: High marks for ride quality, making long trips pleasant.
- Durable: High treadwear rating means these tires will last you a while.
Cons
- Winter Performance: Not the best for heavy snow or ice, so if you live in a snowy area, you might need dedicated winter tires.
- Noise Level: Slightly noisier than some competitors, but not a dealbreaker for most.
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
9.0 of 10
Wet Weather
9.1 of 10
Winter Weather
8.3 of 10
Tread Wear
9.0 of 10
Dry Weather
9.4 of 10
Ride Comfort
9.2 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 800
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 70,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 9.1 of 10
Wet Grip: 9.2 of 10
Cornering: 9.4 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.5 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.3 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.7 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.2 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.9 of 10
Comfort Level: 9.3 of 10
Road Noise: 9.1 of 10
Now, let’s take a closer look at the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3. This tire is like the reliable friend you can count on, especially when you need all-around performance in various conditions.
Key Performance Measurements
Wet Performance (9.1)
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.1
- Wet Traction: 9.2
Dry Performance (9.4)
- Corner Stability: 9.4Dry Traction: 9.5Steering Response: 9.3
Winter/Snow Performance (8.3)
- Light Snow Traction: 8.7
- Deep Snow Traction: 8.2
- Ice Traction: 7.9
Comfort (9.2)
- Ride Quality: 9.3
- Noise: 9.1
Treadwear (9.0)
The Scorpion AS Plus 3 has good durability. With a treadwear score of 9.0, these tires will serve you well over many miles, providing good value for your investment.
Pros
- Excellent Wet and Dry Performance: Reliable in various weather conditions, especially in dry conditions.
- High Comfort Levels: Smooth and quiet rides make long drives enjoyable.
- Durable: Good treadwear rating ensures longevity.
Cons
- Winter Performance: While decent, it’s not the best choice for heavy snow or icy conditions.
- Price: Typically, Pirelli tires can be on the pricier side, but you get what you pay for.
Comparative Analysis
When deciding between the Continental CrossContact LX25 and Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3, it’s important to carefully consider their respective strengths and how they align with your driving needs. Both tires offer impressive all-season performance, but there are some nuances that separate them. Let’s break it down:
Performance in Wet Conditions
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydroplaning Resistance | 9.1 | 9.1 |
| Wet Traction | 9.2 | 9.2 |
In wet conditions, both the Continental CrossContact LX25 and the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 perform admirably. They tie in hydroplaning resistance and wet traction, ensuring you stay safe and in control even when the roads are slick. It’s a close call here, but both tires are dependable in the rain.
Dry Traction and Handling
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Corner Stability | 9.3 | 9.4 |
| Dry Traction | 9.5 | 9.5 |
| Steering Response | 9.2 | 9.3 |
On dry roads, the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 edges out the Continental CrossContact LX25 in corner stability and steering response, though both are equal in dry traction. If you value a tire that offers a slightly more responsive and stable handling experience on dry roads, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 has the upper hand.
Winter Performance
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Light Snow Traction | 8.8 | 8.7 |
| Deep Snow Traction | 8.2 | 8.2 |
| Ice Traction | 7.8 | 7.9 |
When winter arrives, neither tire is a standout performer, but they’re decent. The Continental CrossContact LX25 has a slight edge in light snow traction, while the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is marginally better on ice. For deep snow, they’re evenly matched. If winter driving is a major concern, you might need dedicated winter tires.
Comfort and Noise
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Quality | 9.2 | 9.3 |
| Noise | 8.9 | 9.1 |
In terms of comfort, the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 takes the lead. With a slightly higher ride quality rating and lower noise levels, it promises a quieter and more pleasant driving experience. Think of it as the difference between riding in a luxury car and a mid-range sedan – both are good, but one is a bit more refined.
Treadwear and Durability
| Continental CrossContact LX25 | Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Treadwear | 9.1 | 9.0 |
When it comes to treadwear, the Continental CrossContact LX25 has a slight edge. Both tires are durable and long-lasting, but the LX25 might give you a few extra miles before needing a replacement. It’s like having a reliable pair of work boots that you know will last just a bit longer.
Overall Recommendation
- Choose Continental CrossContact LX25 if: You’re looking for a durable, reliable tire that performs well in wet and dry conditions. It offers slightly better light snow traction and treadwear, making it a great all-rounder, especially if you live in an area with varied weather conditions.
- Opt for Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 if: You prioritize a quieter, more comfortable ride and excellent dry performance. The Scorpion AS Plus 3 is ideal if you want a premium driving experience with responsive handling and minimal noise, making those long road trips more enjoyable.
Ultimately, both the Continental CrossContact LX25 and Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 are top-tier all-season tires. Your choice will depend on what aspects of performance matter most to you and your typical driving conditions. Whether it’s the durability of the Continental or the comfort of the Pirelli, you’re in good hands with either option.
Other Competitors in the Market
While the Continental CrossContact LX25 and Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 hold their ground as top contenders, the tire market is bustling with alternatives that might better align with specific needs or budgets. Let’s explore a few other players in the all-season SUV/Crossover tire category and see how they stack up.
Yokohama Geolandar CV G058
Performance Ratings:
- Wet: 9.1 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.0, Wet Traction: 9.1)
- Dry: 9.2 (Corner Stability: 9.1, Dry Traction: 9.3, Steering Response: 9.1)
- Comfort: 8.8 (Ride Quality: 9.0, Noise: 8.6)
- Winter/Snow: 8.2 (Light Snow Traction: 8.6, Deep Snow Traction: 8.2, Ice Traction: 7.9)
- Treadwear: 9.0
Pros:
- Balanced performance in wet and dry conditions.
- Comfortable ride quality.
- Good treadwear rating.
Cons:
- Average winter performance.
- Not the quietest option.
Ideal Usage: Suitable for drivers who value a balanced performance across different conditions and a comfortable ride, with a bit of compromise on winter traction.
Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax
Performance Ratings:
- Wet: 8.9 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.9, Wet Traction: 8.9)
- Dry: 9.2 (Corner Stability: 9.2, Dry Traction: 9.3, Steering Response: 9.2)
- Comfort: 8.7 (Ride Quality: 8.9, Noise: 8.6)
- Winter/Snow: 7.9 (Light Snow Traction: 8.3, Deep Snow Traction: 7.9, Ice Traction: 7.4)
- Treadwear: 8.8
Pros:
- Strong dry performance.
- Comfortable ride.
- Decent treadwear rating.
Cons:
- Lower winter performance.
- Wet performance could be better.
Ideal Usage: Best for drivers who experience mostly dry conditions and prioritize comfort and durability but need to be cautious in winter weather.
BFGoodrich Advantage T/A Sport LT
Performance Ratings:
- Wet: 8.7 (Hydroplaning Resistance: 8.8, Wet Traction: 8.6)
- Dry: 9.1 (Corner Stability: 9.0, Dry Traction: 9.3, Steering Response: 9.1)
- Comfort: 8.4 (Ride Quality: 8.7, Noise: 8.1)
- Winter/Snow: 8.0 (Light Snow Traction: 8.6, Deep Snow Traction: 8.1, Ice Traction: 7.5)
- Treadwear: 8.6
Pros:
- Good dry traction and handling.
- Reliable wet performance.
- Comfortable ride.
Cons:
- Lower winter performance.
- Slightly lower treadwear rating.
Ideal Usage: Ideal for drivers in milder climates who prioritize dry and wet performance with a comfortable ride but do not frequently encounter harsh winter conditions.
Overall Recommendations
- For Comfort on Long Drives: The Yokohama Geolandar CV G058 shines in providing a comfortable ride, making it perfect for families or those who frequently embark on road trips. Its balanced performance and good treadwear rating are significant pluses.
- For Budget-Friendly Options: The Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax and BFGoodrich Advantage T/A Sport LT present viable options for those who need to adhere to stricter budgets. While they don’t offer the best performance metrics, they maintain a respectable level of quality for their price range.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires:
- Continental Product Page
- Pirelli Product Page
- Crossover/SUV Touring All-Season Tire Consumer Ratings – Tire Rack
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right tire for your SUV or crossover depends on your specific driving needs. The Continental CrossContact LX25 is a fantastic choice if you prioritize wet and dry performance, comfort, and durability. Its balanced performance makes it a reliable option for varied driving conditions. On the other hand, the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 excels in dry performance and offers a quieter, more comfortable ride, making it ideal for those who value a serene driving experience.
Ultimately, both tires are excellent choices within their respective strengths. Consider your driving environment and personal preferences when making your decision.
Good luck and happy motoring.
