Michelin X-Ice

The original Michelin X-Ice was replaced in fall 2008 by the new Michelin X-Ice Xi2 (*Est. $90). But some retailers are still selling their remaining stock of the original X-Ice, and some top reviewers include it in their most recent tests. The X-Ice has long been a top pick among U.S. and some European reviewers, although its subpar ice grip is its Achilles' heel in tests. Users don't rate it as highly as the Bridgestone Blizzak WS60 (*Est. $80). Experts say its replacement, the Xi2, is the best all-around winter tire on the market, an honor the X-Ice never achieved.

Consumer Reports' test of the Michelin X-Ice is both thorough and comparative, but you must be a subscriber to read the report. The rankings at the Swedish magazine Motorföraren are just as authoritative and detailed, but the report is available only in Swedish. TireRack.com is a retail site that also conducts expert tests (including one that involves the X-Ice) as well as collecting extensive user ratings. We also found user reviews of the X-Ice at Epinions.com.