Michelin X-Ice North 4

The Michelin X-Ice North 4 is a compelling choice for drivers who prioritize longevity in a winter tire. Its standout feature is the 80,000-mile treadwear warranty, which is significantly higher than the winter category average of 54,431 miles. This makes it particularly attractive for those who drive long distances in winter conditions. In terms of performance, the X-Ice North 4 offers solid dry grip with a rating of 7.5, surpassing the category average of 7.1. This makes it a reliable option for clear, cold days. However, its wet grip score of 5.5 falls slightly short of the average, which could be a drawback in slushy or rainy conditions. The handling score of 7.5 suggests it can manage various winter scenarios with confidence. Compared to competitors like the Pirelli Scorpion Winter, the X-Ice North 4 sacrifices some wet grip for its impressive treadlife. The lack of a 3PMSF certification might deter those who prefer certified snow performance, but for those focused on durability, this tire remains a strong contender. If you need a winter tire for high-mileage use and can compromise on some wet grip performance, the X-Ice North 4 is worth considering. However, if certified snow performance is a must, you might want to look at alternatives with the 3PMSF mark.

Spec-based analysis — see our methodology.