Hey everyone, my current tires are due for replacement, and I’m looking for the best options for my 2020 RAV4 XLE Premium AWD. I’m willing to invest in top brands like Michelin or Bridgestone. I’m after something with great longevity and plenty of tread. I’ve narrowed it down to two options, but I’m not sure which is better. I’d also love to hear any personal recommendations based on your experiences. Thanks in advance!
The Michelin CrossClimate2 recently won a comparison test by Tire Reviews, which is a well-respected tester. You can check out their full report here: https://www.tire-reviews.com/Tire-Tests/The-7-BEST-All-Weather-Tires-Tested.htm
This test focused on All Weather tires, not All Season tires like the ones you mentioned. If snow isn’t a big concern for you, the Defenders might be a better option for tread life. Also, they used a RAV4 Prime for the test, so the results should be pretty relevant for your RAV4 too. Hope this helps!
The Michelin CrossClimate2 are the best tires I’ve ever used.
I had the original Defenders on my Gen 3 RAV4 for about 40K miles and really liked them. They were still at 7/32nds when I switched to CrossClimate2s after a puncture near the sidewall. The CrossClimate2s are amazing in snow, but they might not last as long as the Defenders.
My RAV4 is new, so I won’t need tires for a while. But when I do, I’ll be looking for the quietest option available. The OEM Dunlops have a loud asphalt roar that’s pretty annoying.
I just bought General Altimax 365 All Weather tires for my 2022 RAV4. They were pretty pricey…
I’ve heard some people say the CrossClimate2 tires don’t perform well in the rain. I went with Yokohama Geolandar tires, and I’m really happy with them.
Jori said:
I’ve heard some people say the CrossClimate2 tires don’t perform well in the rain. I went with Yokohama Geolandar tires, and I’m really happy with them.
My CrossClimate2 tires have been great in the rain.
I have Michelin Defender 2 tires on both my 2015 and 2018 RAV4s. No issues so far.
I have a RAV4 Prime and heard the CrossClimate2 tires are great. I mostly drive in warm, sunny weather with occasional mountain trips. Would these tires still be a good choice for me?
I don’t have personal experience with these tires, but here’s what I’ve found online:
- Michelin Defender 2: Known for longevity and good performance in wet conditions. Some users say ride quality drops after 50K miles.
- Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra: Loved for its quiet ride and comfort. Great for city driving if you want a smooth, quiet experience.
Your choice depends on what you prioritize: longevity and wet/snow performance (Defender 2) or a quiet, smooth ride (Alenza AS Ultra).
Have you considered Continental tires? I just put CrossContact LX25 tires on my RAV4. They match what you’re looking for.
North said:
Have you considered Continental tires? I just put CrossContact LX25 tires on my RAV4. They match what you’re looking for.
I just got those tires on my 2025 XLE after a lot of research. The ride feels a bit less smooth than the OEM tires. Maybe it’s the tire pressure. What do you keep yours at? They’re great in the rain, though.
@Cade
I’ve been happy with them so far. They handled a snowstorm and wet roads really well. I haven’t noticed more road noise than the stock tires, but I need more dry pavement miles to be sure.