Michelin Defender Review and Test

Monday, September 10, 2012 by Gary Stanley

For many years, Michelin produced two models of Passenger All-Season tires for drivers who valued a quality tire with long life and good ride quality: the Harmony and HydroEdge with Green X. 

While both options are in the same performance category, each tire was better in different regards. The Harmony has the smoother and quieter ride between the two with slightly better snow traction. HydroEdge with Green X tires make a little more road noise but provide better wet grip and more responsive handling. Making a decision on which one to choose was often a difficult task for many customers.

Enter the Michelin Defender. Using Michelin's latest tire technology, they claim to have combined the best of the Harmony and HydroEdge with Green X into one great tire.  

Michelin Defender
Michelin Defender		 Michelin Harmony
Michelin Harmony		 Michelin HydroEdge
Michelin HydroEdge with Green X


We recently tested the Michelin Defender against other all-season options. The results confirmed that the Michelin Defender is indeed an outstanding choice as it tied for first place in our test! Here's what our test summary said about the tire:

  • What We Liked: Good road manners and responsive handling
  • What We'd Improve: Wet traction
  • Conclusion: A refined and good handling tire, especially in dry conditions
  • Latest Test Rank: 1st (tie, pending winter test results)

For a complete result on how the Defender compared against the Continental ProContact with EcoPlus Technology, Goodyear Assurance TripleTred All-Season and Yokohama AVID Ascend, read "Testing Passenger and Touring All-Season Tires."

Comments on Michelin Defender Review and Test

Saturday, October 27, 2012 by Bob:
These are great tires on my 2007 Equinox. Smooth, quiet, good on dry and wet roads. I have yet to assess these in the cold/snow and don't yet know about tread wear and mileage, but so for the are MUCH better than the OEM Bridgestone Dueler IIs that the vehicle came with.

I have very high expectations for these tire.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 by bud dee :
this tire acceptable for hyundai,2010 tucson limited?
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 by Gary:
The Defender is made in tire size 225/55R18 which is indeed a correct fitment for the 18" equipped models of 2010 Hyundai Tuscon Limited.
Sunday, January 6, 2013 by Rita:
Is this tire acceptable for the 2011 KIA Sedona LX?
Monday, January 7, 2013 by Gary:
Rita,

Michelin does not make the Defender in the 225/70R16 tire size that originally came on your 2011 Sedona, but it is made in the optional size of 235/65R16 which we recommend.
Saturday, February 2, 2013 by dave:
I don't see the Defender tire recommended for my car size. I have an Infinity 2008 G35X Sport which uses a 225/50/R18 tire. Do you carry this tire and if so what is the price on a set of 4? Thanks!
Monday, February 4, 2013 by Gary:
Dave,

Michelin does make the Defender in tire size 225/50R18, currently selling for $177 per tire as of today. To find them, search by size, rather than by vehicle since this tire has a lower speed rating than what is recommended for the G35X.

Tires http://www.tirerack.com/tires/index.jsp?affiliate=FH8
Tuesday, March 26, 2013 by Mike:
Is the defender 225/50R17 suitable for Lincoln MKZ
Tuesday, March 26, 2013 by Gary:
Mike,

While the speed rating on the Defender (T, 118MPH) is lower than the factory tires speed rating for your MKZ (V, 149MPH), the Defender is indeed made in the correct 225/50R17 tire size.

Tires http://www.tirerack.com/tires/index.jsp?affiliate=FH8
Saturday, April 6, 2013 by Kim:
I got the 14" Defender tires for my new Hyundai Accent because the Kumho tires that came with it lasted 13k miles. Shocked...totally worn out and worthless tires! Now that I have the Michelin Defenders, it feels like I'm floating on air and I know I can expect a long life from them.
Friday, April 26, 2013 by Blake:
Would like a set for my 2001 Volvo V70XC, any promotions you foresee in the near future?Missed the last unfortunatly. Getting about 20K mile on Kuhmos,time for a change.
Monday, April 29, 2013 by Gary:
Blake,

Unfortunately I do not get advanced notice of special offers, sorry. You may want to check our promotional offers page periodically to check for new specials here :

http://www.tirerack.com/a.jsp?a=FH8&url=/installer/index.jsp

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