Defender 2

About the Michelin Defender 2

All-Season Passenger Car/SUV/CUV Touring tire.

Features

* All season tread design* MaxTouch 2.0 technology* EverTread 2.0 compound* M+S Rated* 80,000 Mile Treadwear Limited Warranty

Benefits

* For excellent durability and long tread life* For good year-round traction in wet and dry road conditions* For a quiet, comfortable ride throughout the life of the tire

Understanding the 235/50R18 XL size

In the size code 235/50R18, 235 is the section width in millimetres (about 9.3"). 50 is the aspect ratio — the sidewall height is 50% of the width, or roughly 117.5 mm. R18 means radial construction on a 18-inch wheel, giving an approximate overall diameter of 27.3".

The load index 101 means each tire supports up to 1,819 lbs — about 7,276 lbs across a full set of four. The speed symbol V certifies the tire to 149 mph under its rated load. Always match or exceed the load index and speed rating listed on your vehicle's door-jamb placard.

Tread life and grip ratings

This tire carries a UTQG rating of 840 B B. The treadwear grade of 840 is a relative durability score — a grade of 200 is expected to last roughly twice as long as a grade of 100 under the same controlled test. Traction grade B measures straight-line wet stopping grip (AA is highest, then A, B and C). Temperature grade B reflects heat resistance at sustained speed (A is highest).

Price and value

At $179.99 per tire, a full set of four costs $719.96. That is about 16% above the average of the 127 tires we stock in this size, reflecting its position in the range. Backed by a 80,000-mile treadwear warranty, that works out to roughly $9.00 per 1,000 miles across the set.