When asked about which brand of tires are associated with quality, many think of Michelin. Their reputation is well deserved. For decades, Michelin has been an industry leader in tire technology, making some of the best tires that money can buy. While they make outstanding performance tires, like the Pilot Super Sport, Michelin may be best known for producing some of the smoothest and quietest riding all-season tires on the market.
Not everyone is looking for the best handling and steering response, instead many drivers simply want a tire that's quiet, safe and will last for a long time. For those who are looking for the best price on Michelin tires, check out a couple of the lowest priced options in two popular sizes.
205/65R15
This is a commonly used tire size for a mid-size sedan such as the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus and Chevy Malibu. The best priced Michelin tire in this size is the Defender. Michelin's Defender is an outstanding Standard Touring All-Season tire with long wear, great traction and a quiet ride. For more information on this tire, read "Michelin Defender Review and Test."
235/70R16
Many SUVs, trucks and crossover vehicles use this common 16" tire size, including the Ford F-150, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Santa Fe and various Jeep models. In this size, the lowest priced Michelin tire is the Latitude Tour. This tire, back in early 2012, was one of my top choices for vehicles being driven on the street only. It's still a top contender for those who don't take their vehicles off-road.
Shop by size to see which Michelin tires are available for your vehicle.
Is it time to replace the tires on your Honda Odyssey? If so, consider the following all-season options for your minivan. My favorite tire for this vehicle continues to be the Goodyear Assurance ComforTred Touring. This tire certainly lives up to its name. It's a premium Grand Touring All-Season tire that provides excellent ride qualities, including superior comfort and low tread noise. In addition to a great ride, the tire offers fantastic all-season traction and long treadwear with a 70,000- or 80,000-mile treadlife warranty depending on speed rating.
Another great option for the Odyssey is the Michelin Defender. Although it is only made in the 235/65R16 size for this van, it's still a very popular choice. The Defender is currently the top-ranked Standard Touring All-Season tire in our customer survey results. This tire also has superior all-season traction and comes with a 90,000-mile treadlife warranty. Designed to help enhance fuel efficiency, Defender tires meet Michelin's Green-X low rolling resistance objectives.
Finally, the Firestone Precision Touring is a good value priced option for Odyssey owners. This tire performed very well in our testing with good grades in wet traction and stable handling. Customers really enjoy the tire, as it sits is second place in its category, only behind the aforementioned Michelin Defender.
To view all tire options for your Honda Odyssey, shop by vehicle.
With high fuel prices, everyone is looking for ways to save money at the pump. The tires on your car have an impact on your fuel economy. One easy way to reduce your rolling resistance is to always maintain proper air pressure in your tires. An underinflated tire takes more energy to roll - costing you money.
Today, many manufacturers have designed tires to help reduce rolling resistance and improve overall fuel economy. They have been able to accomplish this by making improvements to the rubber compound, tread design and sidewall construction. When many of these tires were introduced a few years ago, it was initially thought, by many, that they may suffer in their traction capabilities, especially in the wet. To their credit, the manufacturers have been able to overcome these concerns and have been able to produce some very capable tires.
One of our best-selling low rolling resistance tire is the Bridgestone Ecopia EP422. This Grand Touring All-Season tire offers an excellent ride and good all-season traction. The Ecopia EP422 uses an all-season tread compound featuring Bridgestone's unique NanoPro-Tech (Nanostructure-Oriented Properties Control Technology) to reduce rolling resistance and energy loss while maintaining dry, wet and wintertime traction. This tire is offered with a 65,000-mile treadlife warranty.
Another great option is the Continental ProContact with EcoPlus Technology. You may be familiar with the ProContact model as it has been an Original Equipment tire on many vehicles. The EcoPlus Technology's all-season tread compound features Continental's Tg-F Polymers and +Silane additives to improve treadwear, fuel efficiency and traction on slippery roads. This tire is offered with an 80,000-mile treadlife warranty.
Michelin's Defender features Green X technology to provide a level of energy efficiency among the highest on the market for its category without compromising other key characteristics, such as traction and treadwear. The tire is offered with either a 90,000- or 80,000-mile treadlife warranty depending on the speed rating.
When Ford decided to bring the Focus ST to the United States, VW GTI and other hatchback owners finally had an American option. The Focus ST offers a lot of fun and performance at a very affordable price. At nearly 250 horsepower and 266 lb-ft. of torque, the ST packs quite a punch. ST owners will be looking for ways to enhance the performance and capabilities of this turbocharged pocket rocket. As we know, tires are an easy way to accomplish this.
Right off the assembly line, the ST comes with a very nice tire. As far as an Original Equipment tire goes, the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 was a smart choice by Ford. This is a Max Performance Summer tire that does a nice job transferring all that power straight to the pavement. Are there better tires out there? Yes, let's take a look.
If you want to keep a super sticky summer tire on the ST and improve upon the O.E. Goodyear, then go with either the Michelin Pilot Super Sport or Bridgestone Potenza S-04 Pole Position. These tires rank first and second in the Max Performance Summer category. Both options receive high marks in almost every category, including cornering stability, steering response and ride comfort.
Maybe you're in a climate where you'll need or want an all-season tire. After all, if those Goodyears wore out too soon, moving to an all-season tire typically gives you more treadlife. If that sounds like something you'd prefer, I would suggest the Continental ExtremeContact DWS. This has been our top-rated Ultra High Performance All-Season tire for quite awhile.
All these tires are available in the stock size, however if you want to go with a slightly more aggressive size, there's no problem stepping up to a 245/40R18. Shop by vehicle to find all tire options for your Ford Focus ST.
Michelin's LTX M/S2 had the lineage as the "best" Highway All-Season tire as it debuted and maintained the number one slot in our Tire Survey Results. That is until recently with the debut of the Firestone Destination LE 2. It has, at least for now, positioned itself as the new favorite of our customers.
A couple points of interest in relation to the ratings. At the time of this post, the Firestone has about 250,000 reported miles. The LTX M/S2 is closing in on eight million miles reported. This is noteworthy because as tires wear, they all lose certain capabilities, including wet and dry traction. Also, tread noise can increase with the tire's age. Even though the Firestone is currently ranked first, the Michelin is within one percentage point with many more miles reported.
What should you make of all this data? My feeling is that the Firestone is a very formidable competitor delivering appropriate levels of traction and ride quality characteristics with an attractive price. Over the test of time, I expect the Michelin to reclaim the top spot. Therefore, if you were looking for a recommendation when comparing these two tires, I would nudge you towards the Michelin LTX M/S2.
If you want to stick with the top ranked tire in the category, read "The All-New Firestone Destination LE 2."
As much of the country is dreaming about warmer weather, taking off your winter / snow tires isn't too far away. Which means we will be able to get to feel the rush of driving our ultra high performance sports cars, coupes and sedans!
One of my favorite tires in the Max Performance Summer category is the Bridgestone Potenza S-04 Pole Position. This tire has been a long time front runner in the category and is currently in second place only to the Michelin Pilot Super Sport in our Tire Survey Results. In these rankings, the tire receives very high marks in the following areas:
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Hydroplaning resistance
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Wet traction
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Dry traction
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Ride comfort
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Noise comfort
Bridgestone's Potenza S-04 Pole Position does everything well at a moderate price point. Without spending a fortune, the S-04 Pole Position gives you brand name quality, great performance and a tire that has good road manners. This tire has fared very well in both dry and wet traction and continues to be a strong seller for those considering street-friendly performance tires. It's available in a host of sizes ranging between 16" and 20" and widths from 205mm up to 305mm. Take a look at what some of our customers are saying about their experience with this Bridgestone summer tire:
"I replaced the Original Equipment with these and was amazed at the result. Fantastic street tire with excellent grip, low noise and very good steering response. Very pleased with the purchase and I recommend them for performance ranges of aggressive down to mild." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 1999 Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe
"By far the best tire I have ever had. I live in Seattle where it rains a lot and I don't hydroplane with these tires. I have a 2001 BMW 540 with rear-wheel drive and the car handles amazing. I never have a problem losing control or grip with this tire. I would definitely get another set when the time comes." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2001 BMW 540
"I doubt there is a better choice for the money. It completely changed the handling of my car for the better." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2009 Pontiac G8 GT
Regardless of how much they're liked or disliked, run-flat tires are here to stay. Are you a BMW or MINI driver who loves his or her car and has decided to stay with run-flats? Then you need to take advantage of the specials currently on the 225/45R17 size for your E90 BMW and 205/45R17 for your MINI Cooper S.
The 225/45R17 Michelin Primacy MXM4 ZP is marked down from $200 to $129*. If you're already looking for a summer tire, consider the 205/45R17 Pirelli P Zero Run Flat which is now listed for $131*.
Not only are you getting a great deal, you're also getting some awesome tires. The non-run-flat version of the Michelin Primacy MXM4 delivers a great combination of wet grip, steering response and low tread noise for its class. Pirelli P Zero Run Flat's crisp steering response and high grip level make it a good choice for a spirited Mini Cooper S driver. Derived from 100 years of motorsport experience, this Max Performance Summer tire offers a great combination of wet and dry traction with the convenience of temporary extended mobility in the event of complete air pressure loss.
It's also possible to change from run-flat tires to non-run-flat options. These conventional tires will fit your Original Equipment wheels with your driveline, suspension and traction working as normal. To find the best tire option for your BMW or MINI Cooper S, shop by vehicle.
*Limited stock, prices subject to change
Looking for a fantastic deal on a set of 235/60R18 tires? Look no further. We're currently offering the top-rated Michelin Primacy MXV4 for just $172 per tire! This low price makes the tire among the least expensive in the 235/60R18 size while giving you the chance to install a set of one of the best tires on the market on your vehicle.
Ranked as the number one tire in the Grand Touring All-Season category, the Michelin Primacy MXV4 receives high marks for its ride comfort, noise comfort, treadwear and dry traction performance. 235/60R18 Primacy MXV4 tires are branded with Michelin's Green X symbol to show visual confirmation of the tire's positive contribution to vehicle fuel efficiency and the global environment. Lowering the tire's rolling resistance by optimizing its weight, internal structure, tread design and tread compound makes it possible for the vehicle to reduce fuel consumption and its emissions of CO2 and other greenhouse gases.
Many applications commonly use the 235/60R18 size and the following vehicles would be a great candidate for a set of Michelin Primacy MXV4 tires in this size:
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Acura MDX
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Chrysler 300
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Ford Flex
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Hyundai Santa Fe Limited
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Kia Sorento
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Mazda CX-7
The tire is so good I purchased a set for the family SUV, a 2009 Mazda CX-7. For my review of the tire read "Michelin Primacy MXV4 Tires Installed on My Crossover." Along with myself, many of our customers have had a great experience using this tire on their vehicle:
"Holy cow! What a difference a tire makes! These tires by far have the best grip of all three tires I've had. Amazing grip on turns in wet weather gives me utmost confidence as I drive. Every trip is enjoyable. It'll be Michelin from now on!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2008 Subaru Outback Wagon 2.5I
"We replaced a set of very noisy tires with the MXV4 and it is amazing! We now actually hear our engine in the car and not road noise. These tires are so quiet and the ride is very, very smooth! I think they are worth every penny!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2007 Mercury Milan
'These Michelin tires have far exceeded my expectations. Our Lexus LS430 drives and performs excellent with no problems whatsoever. Over the past 60 years I have bought and drove on all sorts of brands of tires and this Michelin is the best by far. I would not buy anything else." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2002 Lexus LS430
For additional ordering information of the 235/60R18 Michelin Primacy MXV4 tire view here. Take advantage of this great deal before it's too late!
Are you looking for the ultimate performance street tire? Do you need to get as much grip as you can to handle all the horsepower and torque your vehicle puts out? Are you the driver that'll take nothing but the best for your sports car? Here at Tire Rack we know what serious drivers demand out of their tires and know what they want - and that includes Max Performance Summer tires.
These technologically advanced low profile, high speed tires combine computer developed designs and unique materials with precision manufacturing techniques to provide an unsurpassed blend of dry and wet traction and handling. Currently, two tires stand out in the category and are ranked first and second in our Tire Survey Results.
The tire at the top of the list is the Michelin Pilot Super Sport. No tire offers as good a combination of wet and dry traction as this one. Initially introduced as Original Equipment on several of the world's most sophisticated performance vehicles, including the exclusive Ferrari 599 GTO, Ferrari's fastest road car ever, this tire delivers durability, handling and traction while increasing tread life. Pilot Super Sport tires are what you would expect from Michelin, and is designed to allow sports cars, sporty coupes, performance sedans and supercars to achieve their full potential in dry and wet conditions.
Bridgestone's Potenza S-04 Pole Position is ranked behind the Michelin Pilot Super Sport, but is a great alternative and is often available more often than the Michelin and is usually at a lower price point. The tire provides drivers of ultra high performance sports cars, coupes and sedans the rush of driving their vehicle. Designed to perform in warm, wet and dry conditions, Potenza S-04 Pole Position tires aren't intended to be driven in near freezing temperatures, through snow or on ice.
We tested these two tires this summer and both performed very well. Read "Testing Max Performance Summer Tires" to see how each option can improve your driving!
Although it's no DB5, the new 2013 Ford Fusion sure has a luxury vibe. Initial reports from the automotive press indicate this vehicle performs as well as it looks.
Have you just picked up a 2013 Ford Fusion? In addition to its styling and performance, I'm sure you're impressed with the Fusion's safety features. In a collision, your Fusion protects your family with airbags in the front, side and also at knee level. If you live in an area that experiences harsh winter conditions, four dedicated winter / snow tires will give you the traction, confidence and safe feeling you need to handle roads covered in snow and ice.
Winter / Snow Tire Sizes
The Fusion's Original Equipment tire comes in one of the following sizes: 215/60R16, 235/50R17, 235/45R18 or 235/40R19. With a curb weight of 3,615 lbs. (2.5 liter Auto S), most Fusion drivers are best served by a 215/60R16 tire size. 215/60R16 is narrow enough to cut through moderate and deep snow, but wide enough for packed snow, ice and dry roads.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Ford uses the valve stem direct TPMS system, which you can purchase sensors for $32 per wheel. Your Fusion won't automatically learn the new sensor codes, therefore a Ford dealer will have to initialize them as you switch back and forth between your winter and all-season/summer tires. Are you installing the wheels and sensors yourself? Then the the optional Ford TPMS Triggering Tool is really a must as it allows you to initialize the sensors.
Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package (Steel Wheel)
While it's a close decision, I prefer 215/60R16 Michelin X-Ice Xi3 Studless Ice & Snow tires on 16x6.5 50mm offset steel wheels at $860* plus shipping.
Winter/ Snow Tire & Wheel Package (Alloy Wheel)
For those who prefer a little more style for winter, I'd recommend the 16x7.5 5-108 48mm ET silver painted Sport Edition SE-16 on the same 215/60R16 Michelin X-Ice Xi3 at $1064* plus shipping.
With the weather changing, be ready by creating your Winter / Snow Tire & Wheel Package today.
*Prices subject to change
Having a lower price point than many winter / snow tires, some customers question the effectiveness of the General AltiMAX Arctic. This tire is perhaps not as soft as certain Studless Ice & Snow tires like the Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 or Michelin X-Ice Xi3, and it may give up a small amount of ice traction. However, this Studdable Winter / Snow tire has proven quite effective for multiple seasons and continues to get strong reviews by consumers.
As a studdable tire, the AltiMAX Arctic can be sold with studs to further increase traction in the most severe winter conditions. While studded tires are certainly not for everyone and have some negative features, such as reduced dry road handling and increased road noise, the ability to add studs is optional and available for those who desire. It's also important to check with local law enforcement officials to see if studded tires are allowed in your area. To learn more about how studded tires may or may not be right for you this winter, read "Studded Tires for Winter Driving."
As mentioned earlier, customers have been giving the General AltiMAX Arctic great reviews. Take a look at what some of them are saying about their experience with this tire:
"This tire is the best I've ever used in 45 years of driving in Vermont winters!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta S
"Awesome snow tire. Not only was it one of the cheaper tires in my size, but one of the best reviewed - and I can see why. My rear-wheel drive BMW got around our 6", one-day snow accumulation as good as any of the 4WD trucks I've had in the past. It is a beast of a tire in the snow, and still very quiet on the highway. If this tire can get a BMW through a North Dakota winter, I'd be confident using it anywhere!" -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2004 BMW 330CI Performance Package
"Fantastic winter tire at a great value price. Ride and noise are good to very good. Ride and cornering are amazing being better than the factory standard tire on this vehicle. Snow traction is good in all conditions and really snow plows through deeper conditions. Ice performance is very good. I have purchased this tire for two vehicles to date and recommend it to my friends as an affordable option for a great winter tire." -- Tire Rack Consumer Review, 2012 Nissan Altima Sedan
To see if the General AltiMAX Arctic tire is right for your application this winter, shop by vehicle.
2005 Honda S2000
2001 Chevrolet Silverado 4wd X-Cab
