Best Touring Tires for Daily Commuters (2025)

Posted Sep-11-25 at 6:00 PM By Dennis Feldman

Best Touring Tires for Daily Commuters (2025)

Close-up of a car's touring tire on a city road at sunset with other vehicles in the background

Touring tires are the unsung heroes of your daily drive. We carry the best selection of touring tires at the lowest prices, and we understand how the right set can completely change your commuting experience. These aren't just basic rubber meeting the road—touring tires deliver the comfort, safety, and reliability that smart drivers demand.

At Performance Plus Tire, we've tested Grand Touring All-Season tires (GTAS) extensively to help you find the perfect match for your vehicle. The Continental TrueContact Tour leads our testing with an impressive 9.2 SimpleScore rating overall, while BFGoodrich's Advantage Control delivers solid performance with a 7.04/10 rating. When you're shopping for the best tires for the money, many of our top rated options now meet the industry's Severe Snow Service rating, carrying the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol.

Our testing covers the best sport touring tires from industry leaders including Michelin, Goodyear, Continental, BF Goodrich, and Bridgestone—all ranked among the top 10 tire brands for 2025. We put these tires through real-world emergency lane change maneuvers and collect performance data to give you the facts you need. Whether you drive a sedan, wagon, CUV, or SUV, the best grand touring tires provide the ideal balance of durability, puncture resistance, traction, and rolling efficiency for your daily needs.

Michelin CrossClimate2

Michelin CrossClimate2 tire

The Michelin CrossClimate2 breaks the rules of traditional tire categories. This Grand Touring All-Season tire carries the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, which means it meets severe snow service requirements typically reserved for winter tires, yet it's engineered for year-round use.

Michelin CrossClimate2 performance overview

Michelin designed the CrossClimate2 as the ultimate one-tire solution for drivers who experience all four seasons without enough snowfall to justify dedicated winter tires. The tire features Michelin's Thermal Adaptive all-season tread compound molded into a distinctive V-Formation directional tread pattern. This design delivers consistent performance across changing conditions.

The technology package includes:

  • V-Formation directional tread design for superior water evacuation
  • Thermal Adaptive tread compound that stays flexible in cold temperatures
  • 3D SipeLock technology that supports block rigidity for better handling
  • V Ramp chamfers that increase road contact under load for enhanced braking

The internal construction uses a two-ply polyester casing supporting two steel belts, with additional polyamide reinforcement for high-speed stability. This sophisticated architecture maintains grip and stability across diverse driving scenarios.

Michelin CrossClimate2 comfort and noise levels

Ride comfort and noise control are critical for daily commuters. The CrossClimate2 excels here. Michelin uses their proprietary PIANO Noise Reduction Tuning, which applies advanced tread pattern modeling to eliminate airborne noise by optimizing tread element geometry and timing variation.

Customer satisfaction ratings support these engineering achievements, with most users scoring ride quality and noise levels between 9-10 on a 10-point scale. Even lower scores of 7-8 indicate strong performance for a Grand Touring All-Season tire. Real-world testing over 31,000 miles shows the CrossClimate2 produces no meaningful added noise when new or after significant mileage.

Michelin CrossClimate2 wet and dry traction

On dry pavement, the CrossClimate2 delivers exceptional grip and predictable behavior. The center tread features blocks that align with fore and aft forces, increasing contact when accelerating or braking. The shoulder blocks align laterally with the tread, helping increase cornering forces and control.

Wet performance impresses equally. The steep angles in the tread pattern effectively channel water away from the contact patch, increasing hydroplaning resistance without requiring circumferential grooves. In wet braking tests from 50 MPH with tires worn to 3/32" remaining tread depth, the CrossClimate2 stopped up to 56 feet shorter than four leading competitive tires.

During severe weather testing in the Boston area, the CrossClimate2 handled heavy rain and flooding with remarkable confidence. The deep treads effectively managed standing water, eliminating hydroplaning concerns present with standard touring tires.

Michelin CrossClimate2 winter handling

Winter performance sets the CrossClimate2 apart from typical all-season tires. Despite being an all-season tire, it provides near-winter-tire levels of grip in snow and ice. Third-party snow traction tests show the CrossClimate2 scored 93 compared to the Standard Reference Test Tire (SRTT), while competitors scored in the 60s.

Customer ratings confirm this exceptional winter performance, with most users giving snow and deep snow traction scores of 9-10. Ice traction ratings are slightly lower but still impressive, ranging from 7-10. Many users report the CrossClimate2 performs nearly as well as dedicated winter tires during normal snowy commuting.

The tire's Thermal Adaptive Tread compound stays flexible at lower temperatures, enhancing snow traction and enabling it to earn the coveted three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol.

Michelin CrossClimate2 pricing and value

The CrossClimate2 comes with Michelin's Promise Plan, which includes a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, roadside assistance, and a 60,000-mile warranty. This warranty, combined with exceptional treadwear ratings from customers (mostly 9s and 10s), reinforces the tire's long-term value.

Real-world testing over 31,000 miles showed minimal wear. After 22,000 miles, tread depth measured 7mm, and after 31,000 miles, it measured 6.5mm. At this rate of wear, these tires are projected to last approximately 75,000 miles before reaching the treadwear bars.

Fuel economy considerations favor the CrossClimate2. In a 22,000-mile test, vehicles equipped with these tires gained approximately 0.5 MPG compared to OEM touring tires, increasing from 26.8 MPG to 27.3 MPG.

Michelin CrossClimate2 overall verdict

The CrossClimate2 emerges as an exceptional all-around performer. Its greatest strengths include outstanding snow performance (consistently ranking first across all key snow disciplines), excellent dry braking (class-leading and rivaling dedicated summer tires), fuel efficiency (leading in rolling resistance), and low noise levels.

The only significant trade-off is wet performance. While not poor, across wet braking, handling, and lateral grip, the CrossClimate2 lags behind some top rivals. This makes it particularly well-suited for regions with snowy winters and dry summers, or for drivers who prioritize winter performance without wanting to switch to dedicated winter tires.

For daily commuters seeking a single tire solution that excels in diverse conditions, particularly those who face occasional winter weather, the Michelin CrossClimate2 represents one of the best touring tires currently available. Its blend of year-round performance, comfort, and durability makes it a compelling choice for drivers who demand versatility without compromise.

Continental TrueContact Tour

Continental TrueContact Tour tire

Continental's TrueContact Tour has earned recognition among the top rated tires in the Standard Touring All-Season category, setting the benchmark for premium performance. This tire targets drivers of family sedans, coupes, minivans, and small crossovers who need the ideal balance of traction, comfort, and longevity for daily driving.

Continental TrueContact Tour performance overview

Continental's innovative EcoPlus Technology delivers three essential benefits: improved fuel efficiency, shorter wet stopping distances, and extended tread life. The technology uses temperature-activated functional polymers that strengthen tread durability while reducing rolling resistance.

The tire includes practical monitoring features that keep drivers informed:

  • QuickView Indicators in the tread show the tire's current performance level
  • Tuned Performance Indicators with letters D, W, and S track dry, wet, and snow traction as they wear
  • Symmetric tread pattern allows easy rotation intervals to prevent irregular wear

The TrueContact Tour provides responsive steering with satisfying feedback right off center and rapid response buildup, though testers noted it could use better on-center accuracy. Continental builds this tire with a single-ply polyester casing and low- to mid-apex design that balances handling performance with ride comfort.

Continental TrueContact Tour comfort and noise levels

During comfort testing, the TrueContact Tour delivered the firmest ride among comparable tires, becoming noticeable on small, repeated bumps and road undulations. The ride quality felt somewhat choppy compared to more supple competitors. Continental addresses this with Comfort Ride Technology that incorporates an underlay beneath the tread to isolate cabin vibrations.

Testing revealed higher noise levels compared to some rivals, but Continental manages this effectively. The noise remains unobtrusive due to well-blended tones that only become noticeable on exceptionally smooth pavement. Customer ratings support this assessment, with most users scoring ride quality and noise levels between 8-10 on a 10-point scale.

Continental TrueContact Tour wet and dry traction

Wet performance sets this tire apart from the competition. During controlled testing, the TrueContact Tour demonstrated exceptional wet traction, stopping from fifty miles per hour a commanding twenty-five feet shorter than its closest competitor. Lateral grip measured over 6 hundredths of a g higher than rivals—a difference readily apparent during skidpad testing.

This traction advantage produced the quickest lap times in wet testing. The Continental accelerated to twelve miles per hour 4.7 feet sooner and braked over six feet shorter from twenty-five miles per hour compared to competitors. The tire's objective traction advantage earned the highest subjective evaluations around the wet handling course, showing stronger acceleration and superior front-end bite.

Dry conditions bring consistent excellent performance, with customer ratings showing 9-10 scores for dry traction and cornering stability. Continental's +Silane additives enhance grip in slippery conditions, while wide circumferential grooves channel water through the contact patch for improved hydroplaning resistance.

Continental TrueContact Tour winter handling

Winter conditions reveal reliable all-season performance. Siped intermediate tread blocks and lateral shoulder notches create biting edges for snowy conditions, while traction grooves trap snow in the tread for snow-to-snow traction.

Like most all-season options, icy sections present some challenges during testing. Test drivers noted superior control through polished corners compared to other all-season competitors. Customer feedback confirms this assessment, with most users rating snow and deep snow traction highly (8-10), though ice traction shows variability with occasional lower scores of 2-4 in extreme conditions.

Real-world testimonials report successfully handling 4-8 inch snowstorms "without any drama", making this tire suitable for regions with moderate winter conditions.

Continental TrueContact Tour pricing and value

The TrueContact Tour offers significant value advantages. Continental backs these tires with an impressive warranty package:

  • Up to 80,000-mile limited warranty (H and T speed ratings)
  • 70,000-mile warranty (V speed rating)
  • 60-day satisfaction trial
  • 3-year roadside assistance
  • 12-month road hazard coverage

Customer reports frequently highlight exceptional tread life, with many users achieving 60,000+ miles of service while maintaining good performance. One owner installed the tires at 187,000 miles on their vehicle and achieved 60,000 additional miles with the same set.

The TrueContact Tour often comes with a $70 rebate, enhancing its value proposition. Priced between $119-$253 depending on size, it represents an excellent investment for cost-conscious drivers seeking premium performance.

Continental TrueContact Tour overall verdict

The Continental TrueContact Tour stands out as one of the best touring tires for daily commuters who prioritize wet traction, long tread life, and all-season versatility. Its strengths lie clearly in wet-weather performance and treadwear, with acceptable trade-offs in ride firmness and winter performance.

The exceptional wet traction capabilities make it an outstanding choice for drivers in rainy climates. While it delivers capable performance in light snow, those in severe winter regions may want dedicated winter tires for the coldest months.

For drivers seeking the best tires for the money with emphasis on safety and longevity, the Continental TrueContact Tour delivers an impressive balance of qualities that have earned it a place among the best grand touring tires available today.

Yokohama AVID Ascend GT

Yokohama AVID Ascend GT tire

When it comes to selecting touring tires that excel in both comfort and capability, the Yokohama AVID Ascend GT stands out as a balanced performer. Designed specifically for drivers of sedans, coupes, crossovers, and minivans, this tire delivers refined comfort without compromising year-round performance.

Yokohama AVID Ascend GT performance overview

The AVID Ascend GT utilizes Yokohama's proprietary TriBLEND Compound Technology, combining low-Tg polymer with high silica content to maintain grip across varying weather conditions. This advanced compound works with an asymmetric tread pattern engineered to optimize traction in all seasons while creating a stable contact patch for improved grip and even wear.

The tire's internal architecture features a polyester casing that supports two wide steel belts. A full nylon cover works with the square profile shape to minimize deflection during cornering, resulting in more predictable handling in both dry and wet conditions.

Key performance features include:

  • Triple 3-D Sipes and notched tread blocks that create biting edges for light snow traction
  • Four deep circumferential grooves with asymmetric widths for efficient water evacuation
  • Outside Adaptive Shoulder Blocks designed for enhanced cornering stability

The continuous center ribs maintain consistent road contact, improving steering responsiveness and driving stability under varying conditions.

Yokohama AVID Ascend GT comfort and noise levels

Understanding comfort is important when choosing touring tires, and the AVID Ascend GT delivers exceptional results. The tire's specially designed tread pattern includes an outer adaptive shoulder with a variable pitch sequence that effectively negates road noise by creating offsetting sound frequencies. This prevents noise from reaching your vehicle's cabin, delivering a quieter driving experience.

Customer satisfaction ratings confirm this engineering achievement, with most ride comfort scores falling in the 9-10 range on a 10-point scale. Noise levels similarly earn strong 8-10 ratings across consumer feedback. The polyester casing plays a crucial role here, enabling the tire to closely follow the road surface while absorbing driving vibrations.

The AVID Ascend GT's comfort-oriented design doesn't compromise performance—a balance that makes it particularly suitable for daily commuters who value a serene cabin environment.

Yokohama AVID Ascend GT wet and dry traction

The AVID Ascend GT demonstrates exceptional capabilities in varied conditions. The tire's four deep circumferential grooves utilize asymmetric widths to effectively channel water away from the contact patch, while the inside shoulder features open notches to further enhance water evacuation.

Wet traction receives predominantly high scores from customers, with most ratings in the 9-10 range. Users specifically praise the tire's hydroplaning resistance and reliable grip in rainy conditions. The tread design's special circumferential grooves and the inner shoulder's lateral grooves work together to maintain road contact on wet surfaces.

On dry pavement, the AVID Ascend GT delivers precise steering and cornering control. The outside shoulder's adaptive blocks provide extra grip during aggressive maneuvers, while the triple 3-D sipes add stability when cornering and braking.

Yokohama AVID Ascend GT winter handling

The AVID Ascend GT's all-season capabilities extend to light snow performance, with the triple 3-D sipes and notched tread blocks creating ample biting edges for improved traction. While not a replacement for dedicated winter tires, customer feedback shows solid snow traction scores (mostly 8-9 out of 10) in moderate winter conditions.

Ice traction is less robust, with scores falling in the 4-6 range—typical for most all-season tires. Drivers in regions with frequent, heavy snowfall should still consider switching to dedicated winter tires for maximum safety.

Yokohama AVID Ascend GT pricing and value

The AVID Ascend GT is backed by a competitive warranty:

  • 65,000-mile limited treadwear warranty
  • 30-day trial satisfaction guarantee
  • Roadside assistance included with purchase

Customer reviews highlight impressive treadwear performance, with many users exceeding 50,000 miles without significant loss of traction or ride quality. The value proposition is further enhanced by competitive pricing, making this tire a favorite among drivers seeking a premium touring tire at a reasonable price.

Yokohama AVID Ascend GT overall verdict

The Yokohama AVID Ascend GT stands out for its harmonious blend of comfort, quietness, wet and dry traction, and treadwear. Its only notable compromise is in heavy winter conditions, which are best handled by dedicated winter tires. For most daily commuters in moderate climates, the AVID Ascend GT is a reliable choice that delivers premium performance without breaking the bank.

Best Touring Tires Comparison Table

Tire Model Category Winter Symbol Warranty (Miles) User Rating (out of 10) Price Range
Michelin CrossClimate2 Grand Touring All-Season 3PMSF 60,000 9.0-10 $175-$250
Continental TrueContact Tour Standard Touring All-Season No 70,000-80,000 8.5-10 $119-$253
Yokohama AVID Ascend GT Grand Touring All-Season No 65,000 8.0-10 $110-$195

What is the difference between a touring tire and a performance tire?

A touring tire is designed for comfort, longer tread life, and a quiet ride, making it ideal for daily drivers and commuters. A performance tire is built for higher speed capability, sharper handling, and superior grip, but may sacrifice ride comfort and longevity.

Are touring tires good for snow?

Some modern touring tires, like the Michelin CrossClimate2, carry the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, meaning they meet severe snow service standards. However, not all touring tires are suitable for deep snow or icy conditions; for harsh winters, consider dedicated winter tires.

How long do touring tires last?

Touring tires generally last 60,000 to 80,000 miles, depending on driving style, rotation, and road conditions. Some premium models, like the Continental TrueContact Tour, offer up to 80,000-mile warranties.

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