Comparison: Nankang CROSS SEASONS AW-6 vs. Michelin CrossClimate+

All-season tyre comparison: Nankang CROSS SEASONS AW-6 vs. Michelin CrossClimate+ from Nankang and Michelin.

Test overview and head‑to‑head results

Across independent tests, the gap between these two all-season options is substantial. In Auto Bild’s large comparative test (31 tyres), the Michelin CrossClimate+ finished 2nd/31, while the Nankang AW‑6 ranked 26th/31. The Michelin consistently excelled with standout strengths in snow traction and handling, dry braking and handling, comfort and low exterior noise, rolling resistance, and mileage. The Nankang, by contrast, trailed the leaders and struggled particularly in the wet.

Strengths and weaknesses by tyre

Michelin CrossClimate+ (model page; brand: Michelin)

• Strengths: Proven all-season pattern with a balanced, high performance level in all weathers; good snow traction; stable handling and precise steering; short wet braking distances; dynamic dry handling; high mileage; low rolling resistance; refined comfort and low noise.


• Weaknesses: Slight shortcoming in curved aquaplaning; higher purchase price typical of premium tyres.

Nankang CROSS SEASONS AW‑6 (model page; brand: Nankang)

• Strengths: Very good winter properties for its class; attractive budget pricing.


• Weaknesses: Limited wet grip; delayed steering response; understeer in both wet and dry handling; and dangerously extended wet braking distances noted in testing.

What the tests say

Auto Bild’s summaries over multiple seasons paint a consistent picture. The CrossClimate+ is repeatedly praised as a well-rounded premium all-season tyre with reliable snow performance and standout safety on wet and dry roads, backed by efficiency (low rolling resistance) and longevity (high mileage). Its main caveats are price and a minor aquaplaning-on-curves weakness.
The AW‑6 earns credit for winter traction and price value, but its wet-road safety deficit (braking and handling) keeps it far from the top in big comparison tests. In the crucial wet braking discipline, it lags well behind premium rivals—an important consideration for everyday safety.

Overall verdict

If you’re prioritizing all-weather safety, balanced performance, and durability, the Michelin CrossClimate+ is the clear winner in mutual tests, markedly outperforming the Nankang in wet braking, handling, comfort, noise, rolling resistance, and mileage, while also being strong on snow. The Nankang CROSS SEASONS AW‑6 can make sense for drivers on a tight budget who value winter grip and mostly face colder, snowier conditions—but you should be aware of its significant wet‑grip and wet‑braking compromises.

Replacement status: Our database does not list a newer successor for either model at this time; if a replacement is confirmed, we will link the newer tyre on each model’s page.