Mar 8, 20213 min read

REVIEW: Michelin Energy XM2+ Car Tyre

A few months ago, we got the opportunity to test the latest Michelin Energy XM2+ Car Tyres at the Wabco Proving Ground in Chennai. This newly launched tyre will be replacing the outgoing Energy XM2 tyre range and provide long-lasting performance. The new Energy XM2+ is built using a new full-silica rubber compound, that provides it with a much shorter braking distance on wet roads in both new and worn conditions, as compared to the Bridgestone B290, which is its main competitor. These new tyres will also last 29% longer than the currently available Energy XM2, thanks to the Alternate Bridge Technology, which ensures minimized tread-block shuffling and a lower wear rate. This new tyre will be available in over 30 sizes ranging from 12 - 16 inches, meaning it can be fitted to a wide range of hatchbacks, sedans, compact SUVs and MUVs.

We tested the performance of the new Energy XM2+ tyre range in extremely wet and worn-out conditions. Let’s have a look:

At the Wabco Proving Ground, we got to drive three diesel-powered Maruti Suzuki Swifts, the first one was fitted with a set of worn-out Michelin Energy XM2+ tyres, the second one was fitted with a set of worn-out Bridgestone B290 tyres while the third car was fitted with a set of new XM2+ tyres. In total - 2 tests were conducted and both these tests highlighted the superior grip and braking performance of the Energy XM2+ range of tyres.

Test 1

In the first test, we had to compare the braking distance of the worn-out tyres (XM2+ and B290) on an extremely wet surface. Both these tyres had about 1.5mm of tread left on and had travelled almost 1,00,000 lakh kilometres. We first got the chance to test the braking performance of the competitor tyre, after which we tested the performance of the XM2+. To test the maximum limit of these tyres, we had to drive the car in a straight line and reach 100 kmph, before hitting the brakes hard at the set marker cone and waiting for the ABS to kick in and do its job. At the end of the test, the Energy XM2+ proved its worth as it managed to bring the car to a complete halt in a shorter distance as compared to its closest competitor.

Test 2

In the second test, we got to take the newly fitted XM2+ tyres for a spin around the track and test its high-speed performance, cornering grip and overall control. As Wabco Proving Ground isn’t a race track, we actually had to control our speed and follow certain speed limits through various parts of the track. Although in this test, we didn’t get a chance to compare the new XM2+ tyres with a set of new Bridgestone B290 tyres, we were still quite satisfied with the grip of the XM2+. The XM2+ was able to go around corners and grip the tarmac pretty neatly. Also, at the end of the track, the Slalom test highlighted the tyres’ ability to grip tight corners at high speeds.

The new Michelin Energy XM2+ range of tyres not only provides superior grip and long-lasting performance but also promises to be one of the safest tyres in the market, as it retains grip and keeps the car stable even during heavy braking and wet conditions throughout its life. Although the XM2+ is 10% more expensive than the competition, it promises to deliver excellent performance and a significant improvement over its predecessor.