JARGON BUSTERS

Key Markings Explained

• XL (Extra Load): Signifies a reinforced structure to handle the demands of heavy CUVs and SUVs.
• 3PMSF: Official winter certification (All CrossClimate 2 tyres carry this).
• EV: Indicates features optimised for electric vehicles, such as noise reduction and rolling resistance.

Popular Compatible Vehicles

Here are popular vehicles compatible with the 21" MICHELIN CrossClimate 2 SUV tyre range in the Irish market:

• Audi Q7 / Q8: Uses the 275/45 R21 or 285/45 R21 sizes.
• Volkswagen Touareg: Uses the 275/45 R21 or 285/45 R21 size.
• Porsche Cayenne: Compatible with the 285/45 R21 size.
• Mercedes-Benz GLE / GLS: Compatible with sizes like 275/45 R21 or 285/45 R21.
• BMW X5 / X6: Uses various 21" sizes within the range, such as 275/40 R21 or 285/45 R21.
• Land Rover Range Rover Sport: Compatible with the 275/45 R21 size.
• Jaguar I-PACE / F-PACE: Compatible with the 265/40 R21 size.
• Tesla Model X: Can use certain 21" performance sizes, such as 255/40 R21. 

Summer tyres are most common in Ireland, offering peak fuel efficiency mileage and grip when temperatures stay above 7°C. However, they are not the official standard for winter safety. Motorists must show caution in cold conditions; below 7°C, summer rubber hardens, significantly compromising grip and wet braking performance on cold, saturated Irish roads.

All-Season tyres are the superior "fit-and-forget" solution for Ireland's wet, temperate climate. Specifically engineered to remain flexible in the cold, they provide shorter stopping distances on near-freezing, rain-soaked surfaces and carry the 3PMSF certification for frost and light snow. They offer total year-round peace of mind without the hassle of seasonal swaps.

Load Rating: Maximum Weight Capacity Explained

The load index is a numerical code representing the maximum weight in kgs that a single tyre can safely carry. To ensure safety, the combined capacity of all four tyres must exceed the vehicle’s total weight when fully loaded.

Speed Rating: Maximum Velocity Explained

Represented by a letter, the speed rating indicates the maximum kph a tyre can maintain over a prolonged period. Higher speed ratings are engineered to handle the heat and stresses generated at faster speeds more effectively.

Quick Reference Guide

• Check your requirements: You can find the specific requirements for your vehicle on the tyre information plate (usually located on the driver-side door pillar) or in the owner's manual.
• Replacement rule: It is vital never to fit a tyre with a lower load index or speed rating than those recommended by the manufacturer.
• Common Ratings: Standard ratings include T (190 kph), H (210 kph), and V (240 kph). You can view a full conversion table below..

Available 21" CUV/SUV Sizes and Markings (Smallest to Largest)

• 235, 50, 21, 101V
• 245, 35, 21, 96Y, XL
• 245, 45, 21, 104V, XL
• 255, 40, 21, 102V, XL
• 265, 40, 21, 105V, XL
• 265, 45, 21, 108V, XL
• 275, 40, 21, 107V, XL
• 275, 45, 21, 110V, XL
• 285, 45, 21, 113V, XL
• 285, 45, 21, 113W, XL