Michelin vs Uniroyal Tires (In-Depth Comparison)

When it comes to choosing the best tires for your vehicle, the competition is fierce.

In this post, I’ll be delving deep into the world of Michelin vs Uniroyal, comparing these two tire brands on various parameters.

From their fascinating histories to their performances in dry, wet, and snow conditions, we’ll explore it all.

Additionally, we’ll analyze their mileage warranties, average lifespan, prices, and weigh the pros and cons.

By the end, we’ll determine which brand reigns supreme.

Let’s dive in!

Michelin vs Uniroyal – Comparison Table

Michelin Uniroyal
Country of Origin France United States
Year Founded 1889 1892
Made In Canada, France, Germany, Spain, and the United States United States, with their main manufacturing facility located in Woodburn, Indiana
Parent Compagnie Générale des Établissements Michelin SCA (France) Compagnie Générale des Établissements Michelin SCA (France) & Continental AG (Germany)

About the Brands

1. Michelin

The Michelin brand has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1889 in France.

Originally established by the Michelin brothers, André and Edouard, the company quickly gained recognition for its innovative tire designs.

Over the years, Michelin has become synonymous with excellence in the tire industry.

It has pioneered numerous advancements, including the first removable pneumatic tire, the radial tire, and the run-flat tire.

These innovations have revolutionized the automotive industry, enhancing safety and performance.

Michelin’s commitment to quality and durability has earned the brand a reputation for producing high-performance tires trusted by drivers worldwide.

As part of the Compagnie Générale des Établissements Michelin SCA, the brand continues to push boundaries, constantly striving for excellence and remaining at the forefront of tire technology.

Today, Michelin remains a global leader in the tire industry, providing a wide range of high-quality tires for various vehicles and applications.

Mostly Known for Manufacturing Tires For:

  • Passenger cars
  • SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles)
  • Light trucks
  • Commercial trucks
  • Motorcycles
  • Bicycles
  • Racing cars
  • Aircraft

2. Uniroyal

Uniroyal is an iconic tire brand with a rich history that spans over a century.

Founded in 1892 in the United States, it quickly established itself as a leading manufacturer of high-quality tires.

The Uniroyal brand has been under the ownership of Continental AG since 1979, a result of their acquisition of Uniroyal Europe, previously recognized as Englebert.

In 1990 Uniroyal became part of the Michelin Group for North America, Colombia and Peru production.

This acquisition provided Uniroyal with access to global markets and cutting-edge technology, further enhancing its reputation for reliability and innovation.

Over the years, Uniroyal has built a strong presence in the automotive industry, delivering tires known for their superior performance, durability, and safety.

As a subsidiary of Michelin and Continental AG, Uniroyal continues to benefit from the parent company’s extensive resources and expertise, ensuring the brand’s continued success in meeting the evolving needs of drivers worldwide.

Mostly Known for Manufacturing Tires For:

  • Passenger cars
  • SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles)
  • CUVs (Crossover Utility Vehicles)
  • Light trucks
  • Pickup trucks
  • Minivans

Differences

1. Dry Performance


I’m going to compare the performance of two summer tires as they are the ideal type in dry weather.

I’m taking a look at the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S vs the Uniroyal Tiger Paw GTZ All Season 2.

Based on my research and personal rating, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S excels in dry performance, earning a rating of 4.7 out of 5.

It boasts exceptional grip, precise steering and handling, short braking distances, and a Multi-Compound Construction.

This tire’s endorsement by renowned manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz AMG and Ferrari further emphasizes its dry performance capabilities.

On the other hand, the Uniroyal Tiger Paw GTZ All Season 2 receives a rating of 4.0 out of 5, offering good dry traction, long-lasting tread life, and a comfortable ride.

Considering the significant difference in ratings, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S emerges as the better tire for dry performance.

2. Wet Performance


For the wet performance, I’ll be comparing the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 vs the Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring A/S.

In my evaluation of the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 and the Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring A/S tires, I rate the wet performance of the Michelin tire slightly higher at 4.4 out of 5.

This tire demonstrates good wet traction and grip, performing well in wet conditions.

Its versatility as an all-season tire, comparable to summer tires in both dry and wet conditions, adds to its appeal.

The Uniroyal tire, on the other hand, scores 4.2 out of 5 for wet performance.

While it offers decent traction in wet conditions, there are mixed opinions about its wet performance compared to its performance on dry roads.

Therefore, the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 emerges as the winner in terms of wet performance.

3. Snow Performance


We all know that you need dedicated winter tires if you’re going to be driving on harsh winter conditions.

That’s why I’ll be comparing the snow performance of two specialized winter tires – Michelin X-Ice Xi3 vs Uniroyal Tiger Paw Ice & Snow 3.

In my evaluation, I rate the Michelin X-Ice Xi3 tire’s snow performance at 4.6 out of 5.

With exceptional grip, hydroplaning resistance, and a specialized V-shaped tread pattern, it excels in various aspects.

The Flex-Ice tread compound ensures reliable traction in icy and snowy conditions, making it a top choice for maximum mobility and safety in winter.

On the other hand, the Uniroyal Tiger Paw Ice & Snow 3 tire scores 4.3 out of 5, offering reliable snow performance, improved traction, and a studdable option.

Considering their close ratings, I declare it a tie between the two.

4. Mileage Warranty and Tread Life

Michelin Uniroyal
Treadwear Warranty up to 90,000 miles tread life warranty up to 75,000 mile tread life warranty
Average Tread Life Michelin tires are designed to last between 45,000 to 85,000 miles on average. Uniroyal tires are expected to last anywhere between 50,000 to 75,000 miles on average.

Based on the research, Michelin tires offer a higher mileage warranty and average lifespan compared to Uniroyal tires.

Michelin provides up to 90,000 miles tread life warranty, while Uniroyal offers up to 75,000 miles.

On average, Michelin tires last between 45,000 to 85,000 miles, whereas Uniroyal tires are expected to last between 50,000 to 75,000 miles.

Therefore, if durability and longevity are important to you, Michelin tires would be a better choice.

5. Prices


In this section, I’ll be taking a look at the price ranges of both tire brands – Michelin vs Uniroyal.

I’ll be using one of the biggest tire and wheel retailers in the US for this comparison – Discount Tire.

Here is a comprehensive table that showcases each brand has to offer:

Michelin Uniroyal
Average Price Range (Discount Tire) $112 to $1,160 /ea $78 to $307 /ea
Cheapest Tire (Discount Tire) X-ICE Snow goes from $112 – $493 /ea Tiger Paw Touring A/S DT goes from $78 – $176 /ea
Most Expensive Tire (Discount Tire) Pilot Sport 4S goes from $236 – $1,160 /ea Laredo A/T goes from $139 – $307 /ea

6. Pros and Cons

Michelin

Pros Cons
Probably the most reputed brand in the industry Some of their tires can get very expensive
Michelin tires are known for their high quality and durability
Their tires are equipped with advanced technologies that provide maximum fuel-saving, noise reduction, and performance

Uniroyal

Pros Cons
Good value for the money They are mostly considered as a second-tier brand
Good traction
Durable and long-lasting

7. Popular Tires


Here are some notable tires from Michelin:

  • Pilot Sport 4S
  • Defender T+H
  • Premier A/S

Some of Uniroyal’s best tires are shown below:

  • Tiger Paw Touring A/S
  • Tiger Paw GTZ All Season 2
  • Laredo Cross Country Tour

Which Is the Better Brand Overall?


Based on the comparisons made, the winner between Michelin and Uniroyal tires becomes clear.

Overall, Michelin emerges as the better pick.

With superior dry performance, endorsed by renowned manufacturers, and excellent wet performance as an all-season tire, Michelin tires showcase their exceptional qualities.

Additionally, Michelin offers a higher mileage warranty and longer average lifespan, ensuring durability and longevity.

While Uniroyal provides good value and traction, Michelin’s reputation, advanced technologies, and overall performance make it the winner in this comparison.