Comparison: Michelin CrossClimate 2 vs. Hankook Kinergy 4S2 vs. Hankook ION FlexClimate

The head-to-head comparison between the Michelin CrossClimate 2 and the Hankook Kinergy 4S2 shows two competent all-season tyres with different strengths. On our scale the CrossClimate 2 scores 91% versus the Kinergy 4S2 at 83%, reflecting a consistent edge for Michelin across the bulk of independent tests. For brand context see Michelin and Hankook. Neither model has been marked as replaced by a newer tyre.

Summary of test positions (selected independent tests):

• Autobild (10 tyres): CrossClimate 2 finished 4th, Kinergy 4S2 2nd.


• AUTOBILD (9 tyres): CrossClimate 2 2nd (best in snow, low rolling resistance); Kinergy 4S2 6th (best feature: dry handling).


• Autobild 2025 report: CrossClimate 2 praised for being the best candidate in snow with balanced performance and low rolling resistance; minor aquaplaning weakness. Kinergy 4S2: near-summer-level dry handling, good winter traits and short snow braking but slightly weaker in wet conditions and corner aquaplaning.


• Die Reifentester (8 tyres): CrossClimate 2 placed 2nd, Kinergy 4S2 placed 7th.

Interpreting these results: while the Kinergy 4S2 can outperform in individual tests (notably a 2nd place in one Autobild line-up), the CrossClimate 2 is overall more consistently high-performing across snow, dry braking and rolling resistance metrics. The aggregated score and multiple top-2 finishes put Michelin ahead as the more versatile, confidence-inspiring choice for mixed conditions.

Michelin CrossClimate 2 — Strengths & weaknesses

• Strengths: Excellent snow traction, braking and handling; strong dry braking performance; low rolling resistance that helps fuel economy.


• Weaknesses: Slight sensitivity to aquaplaning in some test scenarios — a trade-off for the tyre’s winter/snow competence.

Hankook Kinergy 4S2 — Strengths & weaknesses

• Strengths: Outstanding dry handling, sometimes approaching summer-tyre behaviour; good snow braking in some tests and generally solid winter aptitude for an all-season tyre.


• Weaknesses: Weaker overall in wet tests compared with the winners, with light issues in corner aquaplaning and longer wet braking in some comparisons.

Verdict
For drivers seeking a balanced all-round performer with top-tier snow performance and low rolling resistance, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 is the better overall choice across the tested matrices. The Hankook Kinergy 4S2 is a strong alternative if you prioritize dry handling and a near-summer driving feel — and it can rank highly in single tests — but it is somewhat less consistent in wet/aquaplaning performance and places lower in aggregated comparisons. Choose Michelin for all-weather confidence and efficiency; choose Hankook if dry handling and responsive steering are your main criteria.