If you’re trying to decide between the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and the Continental CrossContact LX25, you’re in the right place. Maybe you’re gearing up for a tire replacement and you want to make sure you’re making the best choice for your SUV or crossover. Tires are not just rubber; they’re your vehicle’s shoes, impacting safety, comfort, and performance. Let’s dig into what sets these two popular all-season tires apart and help you make an informed decision.
The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 excels in wet and dry conditions with longer tread life, while the Continental CrossContact LX25 offers a quieter ride and strong snow performance.
In this article, we’ll compare the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and the Continental CrossContact LX25 in various categories including performance in wet, dry, and winter conditions, comfort and noise levels, treadwear and durability, and price. We’ll also look at other competitors in the market and provide some useful resources to help you make the best decision for your driving needs.
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
Let’s dive right into what makes the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 a popular choice for SUV and crossover drivers. This tire promises a blend of performance, comfort, and durability, but does it live up to the hype? Let’s break it down.
Performance Breakdown
Wet Performance: 9.1
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.1
The Scorpion AS Plus 3 excels in wet conditions, offering solid resistance to hydroplaning. This means you can feel confident driving through puddles and wet roads without losing control. - Wet Traction: 9.2
Excellent wet traction ensures that the tire grips the road even during heavy rain. It helps in maintaining control and reducing the risk of skidding.
Dry Performance: 9.4
- Corner Stability: 9.4
High corner stability means this tire handles well during sharp turns, providing a safe and steady ride. - Dry Traction: 9.5
Outstanding dry traction ensures that the tire sticks to the road in dry conditions, enhancing acceleration and braking performance. - Steering Response: 9.3
Quick and precise steering response makes driving feel more intuitive and less strenuous.
Winter/Snow Performance: 8.3
- Light Snow Traction: 8.7
Decent traction in light snow means you can handle mild winter conditions without too much trouble. - Deep Snow Traction: 8.2
While not perfect for heavy snow, it still provides acceptable performance for most wintery roads. - Ice Traction: 7.9
Ice traction could be better. If you face a lot of icy conditions, this might be a slight drawback.
Comfort: 9.2
- Ride Quality: 9.3
Smooth and comfortable rides are the hallmark of this tire, thanks to its excellent ride quality. - Noise: 9.1
Quiet performance ensures a pleasant driving experience without the constant hum of tire noise.
Treadwear: 9.0
- Longevity is another strong point. The treadwear score indicates that these tires are built to last, offering good value for your money.
Pros
- Excellent Wet and Dry Performance: With high scores in both wet and dry conditions, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 offers reliable handling in various weather.
- Comfortable Ride: High ride quality and low noise levels make for a comfortable driving experience.
- Long-Lasting: Good treadwear means you won’t be replacing these tires anytime soon.
Cons
- Winter Performance: While acceptable in light snow, the tire’s performance in deep snow and on ice isn’t as strong. If you live in an area with harsh winters, you might need to consider this.
- Price: Premium performance comes with a premium price tag. If budget is a concern, this might be a drawback.
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
Now let’s turn our attention to the Continental CrossContact LX25, another heavyweight contender in the all-season SUV and crossover tire category. This tire is known for its balanced performance, but let’s see how it measures up.
Performance Breakdown
Wet Performance: 9.1
- Hydroplaning Resistance: 9.1
Like the Pirelli, the CrossContact LX25 offers strong resistance to hydroplaning, ensuring stability and control on wet roads. - Wet Traction: 9.2
Excellent wet traction means this tire grips the road well in rainy conditions, enhancing safety and handling.
Dry Performance: 9.3
- Corner Stability: 9.3
High corner stability provides confidence when taking sharp turns, ensuring the vehicle remains stable and secure. - Dry Traction: 9.5
Exceptional dry traction ensures superior grip on dry roads, which translates to better acceleration and braking performance. - Steering Response: 9.2
Responsive steering makes the driving experience more intuitive and precise, especially in dry conditions.
Winter/Snow Performance: 8.3
- Light Snow Traction: 8.8
Better than average light snow traction makes this tire a good choice for mild winter conditions. - Deep Snow Traction: 8.2
Performance in deep snow is decent, though not outstanding. It’s adequate for moderate snowfalls but might struggle in heavy snow. - Ice Traction: 7.8
Ice traction is on the lower side. If icy roads are common in your area, this could be a limitation.
Comfort: 9.0
- Ride Quality: 9.2
Comfortable rides are assured with this tire, thanks to its high ride quality score. - Noise: 8.9
While not the quietest, it still offers a relatively noise-free experience, contributing to a more pleasant drive.
Treadwear: 9.1
- Longevity is a strong suit for the CrossContact LX25, with a high treadwear score indicating good durability and value over time.
Pros
- Balanced Performance: Excellent wet and dry performance ensures reliability in various conditions.
- Comfortable Ride: High ride quality and low noise levels make for a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
- Durability: Good treadwear means you’ll get a lot of mileage out of these tires, offering great value.
Cons
- Winter Performance: While it handles light snow well, performance in deep snow and on ice could be better. If you deal with severe winter conditions, this might be a downside.
- Noise Levels: Slightly noisier than some competitors, which might be noticeable on long drives or at higher speeds.
Comparative Analysis
When deciding between the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and Continental CrossContact LX25, 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
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | Continental CrossContact LX25 | |
|---|---|---|
| Hydroplaning Resistance | 9.1 | 9.1 |
| Wet Traction | 9.2 | 9.2 |
In wet conditions, both the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and the Continental CrossContact LX25 perform exceptionally well. They both score 9.1 for hydroplaning resistance and 9.2 for wet traction. If wet performance is your top priority, either tire will serve you well.
Dry Traction and Handling
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | Continental CrossContact LX25 | |
|---|---|---|
| Corner Stability | 9.4 | 9.3 |
| Dry Traction | 9.5 | 9.5 |
| Steering Response | 9.3 | 9.2 |
The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 holds a slight edge in dry performance metrics with a higher rating for corner stability (9.4 vs. 9.3) and steering response (9.3 vs. 9.2). Both tires have the same dry traction rating of 9.5. If you prioritize handling and responsiveness on dry roads, the Pirelli might be the better choice.
Winter Performance
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | Continental CrossContact LX25 | |
|---|---|---|
| Light Snow Traction | 8.7 | 8.8 |
| Deep Snow Traction | 8.2 | 8.2 |
| Ice Traction | 7.9 | 7.8 |
In winter conditions, the Continental CrossContact LX25 has a slight edge in light snow traction (8.8 vs. 8.7). Both tires have the same deep snow traction rating of 8.2, while the Pirelli slightly outperforms the Continental in ice traction (7.9 vs. 7.8). If you often drive in icy conditions, the Pirelli may be a slightly better choice.
Comfort and Noise
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | Continental CrossContact LX25 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Quality | 9.3 | 9.2 |
| Noise | 9.1 | 8.9 |
The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 edges out the Continental CrossContact LX25 in both ride quality (9.3 vs. 9.2) and noise (9.1 vs. 8.9). If comfort and a quiet ride are top priorities, the Pirelli offers a slight advantage.
Treadwear and Durability
| Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 | Continental CrossContact LX25 | |
|---|---|---|
| Treadwear | 9.0 | 9.1 |
In terms of treadwear and overall tire life, the Continental CrossContact LX25 has a slight advantage with a 9.1 treadwear rating compared to 9.0 for the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3. This suggests that the Continental tire may provide a longer tread life, potentially requiring fewer replacements over time, which could translate to better value for your investment.
The Verdict
Choose Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 if:
- You prioritize a comfortable and quiet ride.
- You need excellent wet and dry performance.
- You occasionally drive in light snow or icy conditions but don’t face extreme winter weather.
Opt for Continental CrossContact LX25 if:
- You seek a balanced all-season tire with good performance across the board.
- You live in an area with mild winters where deep snow and ice are not common.
- You want slightly better tread life for long-term value.
Ultimately, both the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and Continental CrossContact LX25 are excellent all-season tire choices. The Scorpion AS Plus 3 offers superior comfort and noise levels, while the CrossContact LX25 provides slightly better treadwear. Consider your specific driving needs, budget, and priorities to make the best decision for your vehicle.
Other Competitors in the Market
While the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and the Continental CrossContact LX25 are solid choices, the tire market offers many alternatives that might better fit 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)
- Winter/Snow: 8.2 (Light Snow Traction: 8.6, Deep Snow Traction: 8.2, Ice Traction: 7.9)
- Comfort: 8.8 (Ride Quality: 9.0, Noise: 8.6)
- Treadwear: 9.0
Pros:
- Solid wet and dry performance.
- Good comfort and ride quality.
Cons:
- Lower performance in winter conditions, especially on ice.
- Noise level is slightly higher than some competitors.
Ideal Usage: Suitable for drivers who prioritize wet and dry performance and value comfort, but do not frequently encounter harsh winter conditions.
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)
- Winter/Snow: 7.9 (Light Snow Traction: 8.3, Deep Snow Traction: 7.9, Ice Traction: 7.4)
- Comfort: 8.7 (Ride Quality: 8.9, Noise: 8.6)
- Treadwear: 8.8
Pros:
- Reliable dry performance.
- Good comfort ratings for a smooth ride.
Cons:
- Lower ratings in wet and winter conditions.
- Shorter tread life compared to some top-tier competitors.
Ideal Usage: Best for drivers in regions with mild weather who prioritize dry performance and comfort over extreme weather handling.
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)
- Winter/Snow: 8.0 (Light Snow Traction: 8.6, Deep Snow Traction: 8.1, Ice Traction: 7.5)
- Comfort: 8.4 (Ride Quality: 8.7, Noise: 8.1)
- Treadwear: 8.6
Pros:
- Good dry performance.
- Reasonable comfort and ride quality.
Cons:
- Lower performance in wet and winter conditions.
- Slightly lower treadwear score indicates shorter lifespan.
Ideal Usage: Ideal for drivers who experience mostly dry conditions and prioritize handling and comfort over wet and winter performance.
Each of these alternatives offers unique features that cater to different driving styles and priorities:
- For Balanced Value and Performance: The Michelin CrossClimate SUV offers excellent wet and dry performance with strong light snow capability, making it a versatile choice.
- For Comfort and Longevity: The Yokohama Geolandar CV G058 provides solid performance across the board with great comfort and tread life, ideal for long-distance drivers.
- For Dry Conditions and Comfort: The Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax excels in dry conditions and provides a smooth ride, suitable for those in milder climates.
- For Budget-Friendly Options: The BFGoodrich Advantage T/A Sport LT is a good choice for drivers who need solid dry performance at a more affordable price, though it may require more frequent replacements due to lower tread life.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires:
- Pirelli Product Page
- Continental Product Page
- Crossover/SUV Touring All-Season Tire Consumer Ratings – Tire Rack
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing between the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 and the Continental CrossContact LX25, it really boils down to your specific driving needs and preferences. The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 stands out with its superior wet and dry traction, longer tread life, and good performance in light snow. This makes it an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize durability and versatility across different weather conditions.
On the other hand, the Continental CrossContact LX25 excels in providing a quieter and more comfortable ride, with solid traction in wet and snowy conditions. It’s a great option for those who value a peaceful cabin experience and reliable performance in winter weather, even though its tread life is slightly shorter compared to the Pirelli.
Consider your typical driving conditions, budget, and what you value most in a tire. Both options are strong contenders in the all-season tire market, each with their own unique strengths.
Good luck and happy motoring.
