Continental ContiCrossContact LX25 vs Michelin Defender 2

These are not the same size tire, so fit decides first: the Continental is a 235/55R20 and the Michelin is a 235/65R17. If your vehicle takes 20-inch wheels, buy the Continental; if it takes 17-inch wheels, buy the Michelin. On paper the Michelin is the longer-wearing tire, with an 80,000-mile warranty and a 4.7 rating from over 1,100 owners, while the Continental counters with a 740 UTQG treadwear grade, low rolling resistance and a quiet highway ride. The Continental carries a 102 load index and the Michelin a 104 extra-load rating, so check your door placard before choosing.

• Choose the Continental ContiCrossContact LX25 if your SUV or crossover runs 235/55R20 tires and you want low road noise, low rolling resistance and strong wet braking.
• Choose the Michelin Defender 2 if your vehicle takes 235/65R17 and you want the longest tread life and the strongest owner track record in this pair.