A few years ago, nobody wanted to hear about all-season tyres in our climate, because using one tyre for all seasons was not considered safe and experience with older all-season tyres only confirmed this. But motorists’ perception of them gradually began to change in 2015, when Michelin, one of the most trusted tyre manufactures, introduced its revolutionary CrossClimate model. This featured a new tread design that was more reminiscent of a summer tyre, but thanks to its unique tread concept, it could also perform in the snow. Drivers started to trust all-season tyres more and nowadays, all-season treads account for over 20% of the European tyre market.
But of course, in addition to the CrossClimate, there are also models on the market from other manufacturers who also have extensive experience in producing modern all-season tyres. So let’s take a look at the best models for 2023.
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Michelin CrossClimate 2
Let’s start by picking up straight from the opening paragraphs and looking at the Michelin CrossClimate 2, which was introduced relatively recently in 2021. It is in fact the third generation – there was also a model introduced between the first and second, known as the CrossClimate+. Michelin has launched this newcomer in a respectable 105 sizes in total, from R15 to R20, so it’s quite possible that it can be fitted to your car. As well as improving handling characteristics, Michelin has, as is its good habit, focused on long-term durability and maintaining handling characteristics throughout the life of the tyre, an often overlooked aspect that is even more important for all-season tyres that must perform in all conditions. This strategy also promotes sustainability, making the Crossclimate 2 a sensible environmental choice as well.
| Tire Model | New Tire Performance Percentage | Worn Tire Performance Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| MICHELIN CrossClimate 2 | 100% | 100% |
| MICHELIN CrossClimate + | 95.1% | 87.5% |
| BRIDGESTONE Weather Control A005 EVO | 84.6% | 65.2% |
| CONTINENTAL AllSeasonContact | 95.6% | 91.9% |
| GOODYEAR Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 | 94.6% | 90.6% |
| PIRELLI Cinturato All Season Plus | 72.0% | 54.2% |
And how do the tests look at CrossClimate 2?
Independent testing organizations have provided a lot of feedback on the Michelin CrossClimate 2. According to Autobild’s 2021 and 2022 reviews, this all-round tyre stands out for its exceptional handling characteristics on both snowy and dry tracks, shorter dry braking distances, and energy-saving rolling resistance. However, the tyre does exhibit minor shortcomings in wet handling with a tendency for understeer and mediocre lateral guidance on wet surfaces.
| Ranking | Organization | Rating | Dimension | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | Tyre Reviews | Highly recommended | 205/55 R16 | 2024 |
| 2 | Autobild | 225/45 R17 | 2023 | |
| 1 | Autobild | Exemplary | 225/45 R17 | 2023 |
| 1 | Tyre Reviews | Test winner | 195/65 R15 | 2023 |
| 1 | Tyre Reviews | Test winner | 225/45 R17 | 2022 |
| 1 | ARBÖ | Highly recommended | 205/55 R17 | 2022 |
| 1 | Autoklub ČR | 205/55 R16 | 2022 | |
| 9 | Autobild | Satisfactory | 195/55 R16 | 2022 |
| 3 | Autobild | 195/55 R16 | 2022 | |
| 7 | Autobild | Satisfactory | 225/50 R17 | 2021 |
| 1 | Autobild | 225/50 R17 | 2021 | |
| 2 | Autobild | Good | 215/65 R17 | 2021 |
| 1 | Tyre Reviews | Test winner | 205/55 R16 | 2021 |
AUTO-Strassenverkehr, another testing entity, agreed with the high performance on snow, short braking distances on dry surfaces, and good feedback and grip in dry corners. However, they found the braking distance on wet surfaces a bit longer, understeering in wet corners, and somewhat limited aquaplaning safety. They also noted a faint howling noise between 50 and 30 km/h.
TyreReviews.com, in their 2022 review, appreciated the CrossClimate 2 for its best-in-test snow performance, shortest dry braking, and high aquaplaning resistance. But, they did point out limitations in wet grip tests with higher levels of understeer. Despite some drawbacks, especially in wet performance, they concluded that the CrossClimate 2 was an exceptional all-season tyre, worthy of a test-winning award, but suggested that Michelin could improve the next generation by trading some of its impressive snow performance for better dry and wet capabilities.
Continental AllSeasonContact 2
Next, let’s jump straight into this year’s anticipated newcomer – the successor to Continental’s highly acclaimed AllSeasonContact. The German manufacturer jumped on the all-season tyre bandwagon later, as it didn’t fully believe that the trend would catch on. I still have a vivid memory of a Continental representative saying sometime in 2016 that if you really want to ride on one tire all year round, buy their WinterContact model. And he was right at the time – in fact, several tests of all-season tires in that period ended up with the reference winter tire winning.
However, Continental too eventually changed its mind and launched its representative for this segment towards the end of 2017, which we were very curious about, because the WinterContact series in particular is hard to find competition for, so the bar was set very high. And indeed – Continental has launched the AllseasonContact, which is more focused specifically on snow and wet, and less on dry. And rightly so for us – critical situations on the road arise most often in these conditions. In the tests, it is further praised for rolling resistance and mileage, while it is criticised for dry performance, especially for its longer braking distance.
This year, Continental introduced the successor to the first generation, the AllSeasonContact 2. Thanks to an improved compound and tread pattern, the new product promises a 15% increase in mileage and a 6% reduction in rolling resistance, an impressive feat considering the excellent figures of its predecessor. In addition, dry handling and braking distances have been improved in both dry and wet conditions. Comfort, snow performance and aquaplaning resistance remain unchanged.
| Ranking | Organization | Rating | Dimension | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tyre Reviews | Test winner | 205/55 R16 | 2024 |
| 5 | Autobild | 225/45 R17 | 2023 | |
| 2 | Autobild | Exemplary | 225/45 R17 | 2023 |
In total, the tyre will be available in 99 sizes from autumn, which should cover 87% of the automotive market, according to Continental.
Bridgestone Turanza All Season 6
Bridgestone also has a new addition to its portfolio this year, the AS6. This follows on from the Weather Control A005 EVO and is now part of the Turanza range, which we welcome as the branding has been greatly simplified.
Its predecessor was often mentioned in tests as a specialist in both dry and wet. However, its test results also depended quite a lot on the specific dimension tested – in fact, the verdicts in the tests vary slightly. Driving performance on snow is then often cited as more of a disadvantage, making it an ideal choice for climates where snow is more of an exception.
| Ranking | Organization | Rating | Dimension | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Tyre Reviews | Highly recommended | 205/55 R16 | 2024 |
| 1 | Autobild | Test winner | 235/65 R17 | 2023 |
| 3 | Autobild | Exemplary | 225/45 R17 | 2023 |
| 1 | Autobild | 225/45 R17 | 2023 |
But the new tyre seems to have worked on that – Bridgestone had an independent test done by TÜV SÜD, in which they also tested the tyre’s performance on snow:
| Braking on Wet (m) | Braking on Dry (m) | Braking on Snow (m) | Performance on Snow (%) | |
| Bridgestone Turanza All Season 6 | 27.2 | 38.6 | 17.3 | 100 |
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 31.4 | 37.8 | 17.1 | 101.5 |
| Continental AllSeasonContact | 28.3 | 41.3 | 18.0 | 95.8 |
| Goodyear Vector 4Season Gen3 | 28.9 | 42.3 | 17.5 | 96.4 |
On snow, the new tyre was ahead of both Continental and Goodyear, with only Michelin having better figures. It also achieved a respectable result in wet braking, where it braked first of all tyres. In addition, Bridgestone has also worked on durability – the new tyre should have an increase in mileage of almost 20% compared to its predecessor, which was again confirmed by a professional test laboratory.
Bridgestone Turanza All Season 6 is developed and manufactured in Europe and is designed for both conventional and electric cars. It will be produced in 85 sizes from R16 to R21, which Bridgestone says should meet 96% of the demand for big wheel tyres in the touring tyre segment.
GoodYear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3
In order to cover the most important representatives of the premium all-season tyre segment, we are missing at least one more representative from Goodyear. The company was quick to react to the all-season tyre trend and launched the first generation Vector 4Seasons back in 2016. Since the first generation, the Vector 4Seasons have been regarded as snow experts and therefore better for countries with permanent snow on the roads. It is available in 75 sizes from R14 to R20.
How do the tests look at the GoodYear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3?
AutoBild (2020 Review): Praised for its versatile performance in all weather conditions, it was highlighted for its dynamic snow, wet and dry handling. The tire also boasted commendable winter characteristics and delivered high mileage.
TyreReviews.com (2021 Review): The tire was applauded for excelling in wet and snowy conditions, low rolling resistance, and good levels of comfort. However, it was marked down for average dry braking.
AutoBild (2021 Review): The tire was celebrated for its excellent snow performance and high safety margins when aquaplaning. It exhibited stable handling on both wet and dry surfaces and was noted for its harmonious steering behavior. The only downside cited was its higher price point.
AutoBild (2022 Review): Winning accolades for its impressive driving properties under all weather conditions, it was lauded for dynamic wet and dry handling, precise steering behavior, and high mileage. The increased rolling resistance was the only point of criticism.
AUTO-Strassenverkehr (2022 Review): It was appreciated for decent grip and agile handling on snow, as well as very good control on dry roads, despite being slightly less dynamic. Criticism was levied for its limited snow traction and instability during load changes on wet surfaces, longer braking distances on dry asphalt, and high rolling resistance. Nonetheless, it was praised as a well-rounded package, particularly suitable for less powerful cars.
TyreReviews.com (2022 Review): The review praised the tire for excellent grip in wet conditions, high aquaplaning resistance, and superior braking and handling in snow. Lower snow traction and longer dry braking distances were noted as drawbacks. However, the tire was consistently placed amongst the best in various weather conditions, including aquaplaning and snow results.
| Ranking | Organization | Rating | Dimension | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | Autobild | 225/45 R17 | 2023 | |
| 6 | Autobild | Good | 225/45 R17 | 2023 |
| 2 | Tyre Reviews | Highly recommended | 195/65 R15 | 2023 |
| 3 | Tyre Reviews | Highly recommended | 225/45 R17 | 2022 |
| 4 | ARBÖ | Recommended | 205/55 R17 | 2022 |
| 3 | Autoklub ČR | 205/55 R16 | 2022 | |
| 6 | Autobild | 195/55 R16 | 2022 | |
| 1 | Autobild | Satisfactory | 195/55 R16 | 2022 |
| 3 | Autobild | 225/50 R17 | 2021 | |
| 1 | Autobild | Test winner | 225/50 R17 | 2021 |
| 4 | Autobild | Exemplary | 215/60 R16 | 2021 |
| 4 | Autobild | 205/55 R16 | 2020 | |
| 1 | Autobild | Test winner | 205/55 R16 | 2020 |
In summary, the Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 is highly regarded for its overall performance across different weather conditions, with specific praise for its wet and snow handling. The most common criticisms relate to dry braking performance and rolling resistance.
Hankook Kinergy 4S2 H750 / 4S2 X H750A
In addition to the traditional premium manufacturers, it’s worth including Hankook, which is also a premium choice for all-season tires at a not-quite-premium price tag. Hankook simply proves that even quality tires can be made cheaper, and that’s no different with the 4S2 or 4S2 X, which is designed for SUVs. This was launched in 2020, replacing the original Kinergy 4S. Together, the two models cover an impressive 109 tyre sizes from R14 to R20. It has very good handling characteristics, it’s just not quite suitable for electric vehicles due to its higher rolling resistance.
How does the Kinergy 4S2 H750 perform in the tests?
According to AutoBild, the tyre excels with convincing driving properties on wet surfaces, good snow qualities, short wet and dry braking distances, and excellent aquaplaning reserves. However, it has been noted for its moderate mileage and satisfactory ride comfort. On the other hand, TyreReviews.com appraises it as an extremely balanced all-season tyre with remarkable performance in every tested category, despite average snow traction. They laud its strong resistance to aquaplaning, extremely short wet braking, excellent wet handling, high grip levels on snow and dry surfaces, and low noise levels. The only area where it is found lacking is its high rolling resistance. In summary, the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 H750 is viewed by independent testing organizations as a reliable and high-performing tyre suitable for various weather conditions. Despite minor drawbacks such as high rolling resistance and average mileage, it is highly recommended for its exceptional performance in most categories.
| Ranking | Organization | Rating | Dimension | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Autobild | 225/45 R17 | 2023 | |
| 8 | Autobild | Good | 225/45 R17 | 2023 |
| 3 | Tyre Reviews | Highly recommended | 195/65 R15 | 2023 |
| 2 | Tyre Reviews | Test winner | 225/45 R17 | 2022 |
| 5 | Autobild | 195/55 R16 | 2022 | |
| 3 | Autobild | Good | 195/55 R16 | 2022 |
| 4 | Autobild | 225/50 R17 | 2021 | |
| 3 | Autobild | Good | 225/50 R17 | 2021 |
| 1 | Autobild | Exemplary | 215/60 R16 | 2021 |
| 7 | Autobild | Good | 205/55 R16 | 2020 |
| 6 | Autoklub ČR | 205/55 R16 | 2020 | |
| 3 | Autobild | 205/55 R16 | 2020 | |
| 8 | Autobild | 225/45 R17 | 2019 | |
| 5 | Autobild | Good | 225/45 R17 | 2019 |
| 5 | ACE | Recommended | 205/60 R16 | 2019 |
| 5 | Autobild | Good | 195/65 R15 | 2018 |
| 4 | Autobild | 195/65 R15 | 2018 |
| Ranking | Organization | Rating | Dimension | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | Autobild | Exemplary | 235/65 R17 | 2023 |
| 2 | Autobild | Exemplary | 225/50 R18 | 2022 |
| 1 | Autobild | Exemplary | 215/65 R17 | 2021 |
Kleber Quadraxer 3
Finding a quality tyre among the cheaper ones is more challenging for all-season tyres than for winter or summer tyres. Compared to seasonals, they are more demanding to develop and the technologies used are relatively new to make it worthwhile for manufacturers to provide them to the cheaper brands from the concerns.
Fortunately, there are some such representatives – one of them is the Quadraxer 3 model from Kleber, a Michelin subbrand. And its tread design does not completely deny the Michelin concern – the “V” blocks look very similar to the Michelin CrossClimate 2.
The Quadraxer 3 was new for 2022, in the same year it was ranked a good 4th in the Autobild test. There it was praised for its good performance on snowy and dry roads, excellent safety margins in aquaplaning, short braking distances in dry conditions and good ride comfort. Conversely, it was criticised for understeer on wet roads. It is available in 101 sizes from R15 to R20 and is on average more than 40% cheaper than the Michelin Crossclimate. And in this case, it’s not likely to be offset by longer life either – the aforementioned Autobild test gives Michelin an estimated 44,000 kilometers, while Kleber’s is 51,000. Looking for an affordable all-season tyre? Kleber could be the right choice.
| Ranking | Organization | Rating | Dimension | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | Autobild | 225/45 R17 | 2023 | |
| 7 | Autobild | Good | 225/45 R17 | 2023 |
| 4 | Tyre Reviews | Highly recommended | 195/65 R15 | 2023 |
| 4 | Autobild | 195/55 R16 | 2022 | |
| 4 | Autobild | Good | 195/55 R16 | 2022 |