Drivers want tires that stay reliable through heat, rain, and snow without constant seasonal changes. The Kumho Solus 4S HA32 and Michelin CrossClimate 2 both promise year-round confidence, yet they take different paths to achieve it.
Kumho aims to deliver balanced performance and affordability, appealing to drivers who need dependable traction without a luxury price tag. Michelin focuses on advanced engineering, offering class-leading grip, durability, and comfort.
Each tire handles changing weather with unique tread technology and compound design, giving distinct road feel and performance characteristics. Understanding how these two all-season options differ helps drivers pick the right blend of safety, value, and handling for their daily routes.
This detailed comparison explores dry grip, wet braking, snow traction, comfort, and tread life to reveal which tire truly earns the all-weather crown.
Kumho Solus 4S HA32 vs Michelin CrossClimate 2
Drivers today need tires that can handle sun, rain, and snow without constant seasonal changes. That’s why all-season tires are so popular they blend comfort, safety, and versatility in one design. Among the top-rated models, two names often stand out: Kumho Solus 4S HA32 and Michelin CrossClimate 2.
Both come from trusted tire makers. Both aim to keep you in control through every season. Yet, they take different paths to reach that goal. The Kumho Solus 4S HA32 focuses on affordability, reliable grip, and balanced performance.
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 delivers top-tier traction, long tread life, and refined comfort. Let’s look deeper into both tires and see which one fits your driving style better.
Kumho Solus 4S HA32 Tire
Product Details
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Brand: Kumho
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Size: 225/60R17
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Section Width: 225 Millimeters
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Load Capacity: 1929 Pounds
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Tread Depth: 9.5/32nds
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Tread Type: Directional
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Rim Width: 17 Inches
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Tire Diameter: 27.6 Inches
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Load Index: 103
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Speed Rating: V
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Weight: 25.7 Pounds
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Special Feature: Winter-approved compound with 3PMSF certification
The Kumho Solus 4S HA32 is an all-weather tire developed for drivers who want dependable traction across changing conditions. It’s designed for compact SUVs, sedans, and family crossovers that see everything from wet highways to light snow.
The tire’s directional tread pattern and flexible rubber compound make it stand out as an affordable yet capable all-season performer.
Features
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Directional tread pattern that enhances wet and snow traction
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Advanced silica compound that remains soft in cold weather
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Wide lateral grooves that move water quickly to prevent hydroplaning
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V-shaped tread design for even wear and balanced performance
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3PMSF symbol, showing it meets winter traction standards
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Optimized pitch sequence for reduced road noise
Each design element of the HA32 focuses on balance safe cornering in rain, reliable braking on wet surfaces, and predictable control on dry pavement.
What is the Good?
The wet performance of the Kumho Solus 4S HA32 is one of its biggest strengths. Deep channels and wide grooves remove water effectively, keeping the contact patch steady even during heavy rain. The tire feels stable during sudden stops, reducing the risk of skidding.
In light snow or slushy roads, the HA32 performs well for an all-season tire. Its winter-approved tread compound keeps flexibility in cold conditions, giving better traction than standard all-season models. The tire also offers a comfortable, quiet ride thanks to its noise-reduction tread design.
Many drivers praise the tire for its smooth highway manners. It tracks straight, absorbs small bumps, and feels secure in curves. The price is another major advantage it delivers solid performance at a cost lower than most premium brands. For budget-conscious buyers, it’s an attractive option.
What is the Bad?
The Kumho Solus 4S HA32 has a few weaknesses. Its tread life is shorter than top-tier all-season tires, especially under hot summer conditions. Long-distance highway drivers may notice faster wear on the shoulders.
While the tire handles light snow well, it’s not built for deep snow or icy roads. Braking distance on ice can stretch longer than with premium all-weather models. The steering response also feels softer than sport-oriented tires, which may not please drivers who enjoy spirited cornering.
Finally, while quiet on smooth surfaces, some users notice a light hum on coarse pavement as the tread wears down.
Overall Opinion
The Kumho Solus 4S HA32 delivers balanced, year-round performance with impressive value for its price. It provides dependable wet grip, solid snow capability, and a comfortable ride. It fits best for drivers in areas with mild to moderate winters who want one tire to handle every season without switching sets.
For city driving, family trips, and everyday commuting, it’s a strong and affordable choice. It may not match the sharp performance or lifespan of premium models, but it gives reliable, all-around confidence.
Michelin Cross Climate 2 Tire
Product Details
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Brand: Michelin
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Size: 235/65R17 104H
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Section Width: 235 Millimeters
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Load Capacity: 1984 Pounds
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Tread Depth: 10/32nds
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Tread Type: Directional
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Maximum Pressure: 51 PSI
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Rim Width: 7 Inches
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Tire Diameter: 29.1 Inches
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Load Index: 104
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Speed Rating: H
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Weight: 29.1 Pounds
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Special Feature: Long-lasting all-season tread with proven wet and dry braking
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 is one of the most advanced all-season tires available today. It combines the comfort of a touring tire with the traction of a winter tire. Built with Michelin’s long-standing expertise, it aims to give drivers safety, quietness, and durability in every climate.
Features
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V-shaped directional tread for multi-surface traction
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Next-generation rubber compound that adapts to temperature shifts
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3D Sipes for strong grip on ice and snow
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Optimized contact patch for even tread wear and stability
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Extended tread life, up to one year longer than many rivals
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Certified 3PMSF rating for true winter performance
The CrossClimate 2 brings Michelin’s premium design into the all-weather category. Every part of the tire from the rubber mix to the tread shape works toward long-lasting, safe, and quiet performance.
What is the Good?
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 excels in safety and grip. Its unique tread pattern bites into the road during braking, delivering short stopping distances on both wet and dry surfaces. Even in heavy rain, the tire maintains strong control with no noticeable loss of traction.
On snow, it performs far better than most all-season tires. The 3D sipes and flexible rubber compound allow it to grip snowy or icy roads with confidence. It can handle winter mornings without the need for switching to a dedicated snow tire.
The comfort and silence are also top-tier. Michelin’s noise control design keeps the cabin quiet, even at highway speeds. The tire absorbs bumps smoothly and offers excellent straight-line stability.
Another major strength is longevity. Independent tests and user reviews show that the CrossClimate 2 can last thousands of miles longer than typical all-seasons. Its tread wears evenly and maintains performance through much of its lifespan.
What is the Bad?
The biggest drawback of the CrossClimate 2 is its price. It costs significantly more than mid-range models like the Kumho Solus 4S HA32. For drivers on a budget, the price difference may feel steep.
The tire also weighs more due to its reinforced construction. This can lead to slightly lower fuel efficiency on smaller vehicles. On very hot pavement, the tread feels firm, which may slightly reduce comfort over sharp bumps.
Aside from those minor points, there are few real negatives. Its overall performance still leads in its class.
Overall Opinion
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 stands as a premium all-season tire that truly performs across all conditions. It combines comfort, traction, and durability better than most competitors. Drivers who face rain, snow, or mixed weather regularly will find it an ideal choice.
It’s especially suited for highway and touring drivers who want consistent handling, quiet rides, and long tread life. Though the price is high, it pays off through long-term performance and safety.
Detailed Comparison for Kumho Solus 4S HA32 vs Michelin CrossClimate 2
Both the Kumho Solus 4S HA32 and Michelin CrossClimate 2 aim to deliver all-weather performance, but their approaches differ in technology and purpose.
The Kumho Solus 4S HA32 focuses on everyday value and comfort. Its directional tread and winter-certified compound make it reliable for rain and light snow.
It’s a great choice for urban and suburban drivers who experience mild winters. It offers a comfortable, quiet ride and stable control at moderate speeds.
The Michelin CrossClimate 2, on the other hand, is engineered for premium all-season driving. It handles heavy rain and deeper snow far better.
Its braking distances are shorter, and its cornering feels more precise. The advanced rubber compound keeps traction consistent across temperature swings, something few tires match.
On longevity, Michelin leads clearly. Its tread can last tens of thousands of miles longer, saving money in the long run despite the higher upfront cost. The Kumho may wear faster, especially on hot roads or heavier vehicles.
In ride comfort and noise, both perform well, but Michelin holds a quieter edge due to its refined tread design. For performance and safety, Michelin also leads, though Kumho stays impressive for its price range.
So the difference is simple:
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Kumho Solus 4S HA32 = affordable all-season reliability, best for moderate climates.
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Michelin CrossClimate 2 = premium performance, best for drivers facing frequent rain, snow, or long trips.
FAQs
1. Are both tires good for winter use?
Yes, both have the 3PMSF certification, meaning they meet the traction standards for winter driving. The Michelin CrossClimate 2 performs better in heavy snow and icy conditions.
2. Which tire lasts longer?
The Michelin CrossClimate 2 offers a longer lifespan up to 10–20% more mileage compared to the Kumho Solus 4S HA32.
3. Do these tires affect fuel economy?
The Michelin’s heavier design can slightly reduce fuel efficiency. The Kumho is lighter and may give better fuel economy on small cars.
4. Which one is quieter on the highway?
Both are quiet, but the Michelin CrossClimate 2 produces less noise overall, especially on rough pavement.
5. Is the price difference worth it?
For drivers who value top safety, longevity, and performance in all conditions, yes, the Michelin is worth it. For those seeking solid, affordable performance, the Kumho remains a great deal.
Conclusion
The Kumho Solus 4S HA32 and Michelin CrossClimate 2 both promise year-round traction and safety, but they serve different needs. The Kumho fits drivers who want comfort, reliability, and value without overspending. It performs well in rain and mild winter weather.
The Michelin CrossClimate 2, by contrast, stands as one of the most advanced all-season tires on the market. It delivers superior braking, longer tread life, and excellent snow traction, all while staying quiet and comfortable.
For daily city commutes or mild climates, Kumho Solus 4S HA32 gives strong value and comfort. For mixed climates, frequent travel, or demanding drivers, Michelin CrossClimate 2 is the tire that truly shines.
Both are good. The right one depends on your budget, driving style, and the weather you face most often.