The debate between Cooper Tires vs Michelin is long-standing in car care and performance. These two major tire makers have always competed for the top position, leaving customers needing help deciding.
This piece will help you understand this competition better so you can make an intelligent choice when deciding between Cooper Tires and Michelin at your local tire store.
Evaluation Methodology
A 1 v 1 test gives the best and most detailed results when comparing all performance aspects to see which tire is better. Things like grip in different weather, how long the tread lasts, road noise, and fuel efficiency are essential in deciding which tire is safer and more satisfying.
Comparing Michelin vs Cooper tires in these areas shows their strengths and weaknesses. For example, Michelin might be better at lasting longer or having a good grip on wet roads because of its unique rubber. But Cooper Tires might be better for quiet and comfortable driving, depending on your needs.
Segmentation: Cooper Tires vs Michelin
Segmentation in the tire industry, Cooper Tires and Michelin cater to distinct market segments. Cooper Tires, known for their affordability and durability, Michelin positions itself as a premium brand focusing on innovative technology.
Understanding these segmentation differences allows consumers to make informed decisions based on their priorities, whether it be budget-friendly options or high-performance capabilities tailored by each brand accordingly.
Ultra High-Performance All-Season
Boasting its distinct Mud and Snow (M+S) certification, it promises versatility and resilience across many driving landscapes — grip elements too quickly glossed over by speed aficionados.
| Recommended | Wet | Dry | Winter /Snow | Comfort | Treadwear | |
| Cooper Zeon RS3-G1 | 7.7 | 8.5 | 9.2 | 5.4 | 8.5 | 7.9 |
| Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 | 8.9 | 9.1 | 9.3 | 7.4 | 8.8 | 8.5 |
Cooper Zeon RS3-G1:
The Cooper Zeon RS3-G1 is famous for its excellent grip and steadiness, even when wet. It has unique 3D micro-gauge sipes that enhance grip and control. Plus, its silica-infused compound boosts the tire’s lifespan. Cooper Tires performs exceptionally well in dry conditions, scoring 9.2, just slightly lower than Michelin.
Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4:
The Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 tires are top-quality all-weather tires, scoring 7.4 compared to the 5.4 of Cooper’s Zeon RS3-G1. This shows Michelin’s commitment to creating innovative tire designs for different weather conditions.
Look at Pilot Sport All Season comparison with its main competitors: Extreme Contact DWS06 plus, Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS, and Goodyear Eagle Exhilarate for a detailed review.
Price: The 225/40/R18 tire size of the Zeon RS3-G1 is $161, while the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 is $200.
Grand Touring All-Season
| Recommended | Wet | Dry | Winter /Snow | Comfort | Treadwear | |
| Cooper Endeavor | 8.4 | 8.8 | 9.2 | 7.4 | 8.8 | 9 |
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9 | 9.4 | 9.4 | 8.9 | 8.9 | 9.1 |
Michelin CrossClimate 2:
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 and Cooper Endeavor perform differently in winter. The Michelin tire is excellent in heavy snow. It has a Three-Peak Mountain Snow Flake certification and a high score of 8.9 for winter performance. This is mainly because it grips and controls well on snow.
Cooper Endeavor:
The Cooper Endeavor performs well in wet and dry conditions, much like the Michelin CrossClimate 2. It doesn’t have a 3PMSF rating and doesn’t do as well in the snow. On the plus side, it’s very comfortable, and the tread lasts long, making it a great value.
Price: For 225/45/R18, the Endeavor at $159 is less expensive than the CrossClimate 2 at $226.
Standard Touring All-Season
| Recommended | Wet | Dry | Winter /Snow | Comfort | Treadwear | |
| Cooper CS5 Grand Touring | 8 | 8.4 | 9 | 6.7 | 8.6 | 8.3 |
| Michelin Defender 2 | 8.3 | 9 | 9.4 | 8.1 | 9 | 9.1 |
Michelin Defender 2
The Michelin Defender 2 is a standard touring all-season tire with a recommendation rating of 8.3. It performs exceptionally well, particularly in wet and dry environments, with scores of 9 and 9.4. This shows its excellent grip and traction on hot summer roads and during heavy rain.
Unlike many all-season tires that struggle in winter, the Michelin Defender 2 remains reliable, with a winter performance score 8.1. It provides reasonable control even on icy roads or in heavy snow.
Cooper CS5 Grand Touring
The Cooper CS5 Grand Touring is a good choice with a rating of 8. It does well in dry weather with a score of 9 but falls short in wet conditions at 8.4.
Its snow score is 6.7, which may not be the best for harsh winter weather compared to Michelin. Still, the CS5 Grand Touring does well in comfort (8.6) and treadwear (8.3), suggesting it lasts long and provides a smooth ride. The Cooper CS5 Grand Touring is a decent alternative with good dry performance and comfort.
Price: For 225/50/R18, the CS5 Grand Touring at $184 is less expensive than the Defender 2 at $229.
Crossover/SUV Touring All-Season
| Recommended | Wet | Dry | Winter /Snow | Comfort | Treadwear | |
| Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax | 8.6 | 8.9 | 9.1 | 8.6 | 8.6 | 9.1 |
| Michelin CrossClimate SUV | 8.6 | 9.4 | 9.5 | 8.7 | 8.8 | 8.6 |
Michelin CrossClimate SUV:
Michelin’s CrossClimate SUV is great for all seasons, while Cooper’s Discoverer EnduraMax made a solid first impression in the 2020 3-Peak Mountain Snow Flake-rated category.
The CrossClimate SUV performs well in wet and dry conditions, scoring 9.4 and 9.5, showing its excellent grip and control. It’s also very comfortable, scoring 8.8. It doesn’t last as long as the Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax, scoring 8.6, indicating a slightly shorter lifespan.
Cooper Discoverer EnduraMax:
The Discoverer EnduraMax by Cooper is a new tire that does excellent in dry conditions and treadwear, with a high score of 9.1. This score shows its firm grip. It also does well in snow, scoring 8.6, showing it can handle heavy snow.
It doesn’t do well in wet conditions, scoring 8.9, lower than Michelin’s tires. Meanwhile, Cooper’s Discoverer EnduraMax tire is excellent in dry conditions and treadwear and also does well in harsh winter weather.
Price: For 235/60/R18, the Discoverer EnduraMax at $208 is less expensive than the CrossClimate SUV at $278.
On-/Off-Road All-Terrain
| Recommended | Off-Road | Wet | Dry | Winter /Snow | Comfort | Treadwear | |
| Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S | 8.7 | 8.7 | 9 | 9.3 | 8.5 | 8.8 | 8.7 |
| Michelin LTX A/T 2 | 7.5 | 7.6 | 8.6 | 8.8 | 7.7 | 8.6 | 8.4 |
Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S:
The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S does better than its competitor, showing great versatility. It scores high across all categories, with an overall score of 8.7. It performs well in wet and dry conditions, scoring 8.7 and 9.
It also does well in winter and snow, scoring 8.5, making it a reliable tire for all seasons. It gets a high score of 9.3 for everyday driving, showing its versatility. It also achieves high comfort and treadwear, 8.8 and 8.7, highlighting its durability and comfortable ride.
Michelin LTX A/T 2:
Even though the Michelin LTX A/T 2 scores well, it falls behind in all performance areas. It has a total score of 7.5, and its off-road score is 7.6.
The tire does well in wet and dry conditions, with scores of 8.6 and 8.8. It only gets a fair score of 7.7 in winter and snow. It has good comfort and treadwear scores of 8.6 and 8.4, suggesting a smooth ride and good durability.
Price: For 265/70R/17, the Discoverer AT3 4S at $213 is less expensive than the LTX A/T 2 at $296.
Summary
Cooper Tires vs Michelin both make great, dependable tires. Cooper tires are cheap and work well in different conditions, while Michelin tires use the latest technology and handle well.
Choosing between them depends on what you like, how you drive, and how much money you want to spend. It’s a good idea to look into each tire model before you buy. Always think about safety first when picking tires for your car.
FAQs
Does Michelin Own Cooper Tire?
No, Michelin doesn’t own Cooper Tire. It’s an American business that designs, makes, and sells car and truck tires. But, as of June 2021, Goodyear Tire, another American tire company, bought Cooper Tire.
Are Cooper Tires As Good As Michelin?
Cooper and Michelin are well-known tire brands for their quality and performance. Michelin is a premium brand known for high-end performance, durability, and technology. Cooper also has a variety of reliable tire options.
Why Are Michelin Tires So Expensive?
Michelin tires usually cost more than other brands due to their superior quality, long-lasting nature, and excellent performance. They use high-tech methods and thorough testing to guarantee the best grip, long life, fuel-saving, and comfort. These aspects make the tires initially more expensive.
Which Tire Offers Better Tread Life, Cooper Discoverer Enduramax Vs Michelin Defender?
The Cooper Discoverer Enduramax has a special tread compound and advanced tire technology to make the tread last longer, making it a strong choice. The Michelin Defender has long-lasting tread because its MaxTouch Construction evenly spreads forces across the tire for better wear.
What Is The Difference Between Cooper Endeavor Plus Vs Michelin Defender LTX M/S?
The Cooper Endeavor Plus has excellent traction on wet and dry roads and lasts long. It also gives a smooth ride and handles well. The Michelin Defender LTX M/S is durable and performs well in different weather, even in light snow.
Are Cooper Tires Good Brand Of Tire?
Cooper Tire, headquartered in Ohio, is a leading American tire manufacturer known for its high-quality products. Their tires are designed to deliver exceptional performance for light trucks, SUVs, and passenger cars across various terrains and weather conditions.