I am considering the Pirelli Scorpion Weatheractive and Michelin CrossClimate2. I noticed that the CrossClimates have a UTQG traction rating of B, whereas the Scorpion has an A, but in looking at some of the independent tests, the Crossclimate traction is as good or better than the Scorpions. Why might this be? Should I trust one over the other?
Actually, the test results in your reference and the UTQG traction rating say the same thing. The UTQG rating measures the coefficient of friction on a wet surface. Basically, a shorter stopping time is equivalent to a UTQG A rating vs a B rating. In the wet handling test in your reference, the Pirellis stopped faster than the Michelins.
You do know that the “Traction” rating is based on braking on a wet surface.
Both sources say the Pirelli say is a better tire.
I see. I’ll definitely disregard the UTQG rating then. The Pirellis stopped 2 ft shorter on wet but more than 10 ft later on dry, so I think I’d prefer to consider a more comprehensive set of variables than a single circumstance.
I think you are making this too difficult. I consider tread wear , cost and every day use. I have had house brand tires that gave good service. Where a person lives and the type of driving they do needs to be brought into the choices. I am one of those whose tires age out before wearing out.
A difference of 2 feet or 10 feet means nothing in normal driving . Track days it does. It is possible that you are not looking at tires that will meet your needs for less money.
I would definitely say that a 10 foot braking difference is meaningful in normal driving conditions; 2 ft, less so. Also, my understanding is that treadwear ratings are not directly comparable across brands apples to apples.
Agreed, if you don’t think 10 feet makes a difference, then with NOT doing anything different, start waiting 10 more feet than normal to hit your brakes in traffic and let us know how that works out for ya… lol
No, that is incorrect.
The test, regardless of who conducts it is the same and the comparison is against the same control tire. Yes, the test has a lot of variability. The UTQG rating can be lower than what is published, but it can not be overstated.
I go into more detail here:
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Fair enough, and thanks for the clarification. Seems Michelins very commonly under-report their treadwear, particularly for the CrossClimate2:
The Michelin’s that came on our Odyssey lasted over 60,000 miles.