Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 Review: My Honest Road Test
Finding the right all-season tire is like trying to find a jacket that works in every season—you want something that’s warm enough for winter but cool enough for summer. Living in Chicago, I’ve realized that’s no small feat. One day the sun’s blazing, the next day you’re sliding through slush. That’s what pushed me to test the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3.
Pirelli claims this tire balances grip, comfort, and durability all year round. Big promises, right? But do they actually hold up on real roads—wet, dry, and icy? I decided to test them in every possible condition: city streets, open highways, and snowy backroads. After months behind the wheel, I have plenty to say.
Let’s break it all down.
My Real-Life Experience: Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
Tires are one of those things we often take for granted—until they fail us. I’ve tested plenty of sets over the years, but the Scorpion AS Plus 3 caught my attention because of its reputation for smooth comfort and consistent grip. Over the past several months, I’ve driven through rain, sunshine, and snowstorms to see if it really earns the praise.
Dry Performance – 9/10
When the roads are dry, this tire truly shines. I immediately noticed how confident and balanced the car felt. The steering response was quick, not twitchy, and cornering felt sharp yet stable. On long highway drives, the tires hugged the road with a steady firmness that gave me real peace of mind.
Even during sudden lane changes or quick turns, I never once felt like the tires lost grip. It’s that kind of reliability that makes you forget they’re even there—a good sign in the world of tires.
I’d compare the dry traction of the Scorpion AS Plus 3 to wearing a new pair of sneakers on a clean basketball court—it just sticks, effortlessly.
Wet Performance – 8.5/10
Chicago rain is unpredictable. One minute it’s a drizzle, the next it’s a downpour. On wet pavement, this tire impressed me with how confidently it handled. I drove through both light rain and heavy puddles, and traction stayed consistent.
Braking distance was solid, and I didn’t feel that heart-sinking slip you get when a tire loses its grip. However, when driving through deeper puddles at higher speeds, I noticed a slight hydroplaning tendency—not dangerous, but something you’d feel if you weren’t paying attention.
Still, I’d call this tire dependable for everyday wet driving. It channels water efficiently, and the tread pattern seems to do its job well. I never once felt unsafe, even in stormy conditions.
Winter Performance – 6.5/10
Now, let’s be honest—no all-season tire is a true winter tire. Chicago winters test your patience (and your tires). On light snow and slushy roads, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 held up fine. It maintained a reasonable amount of traction and braking was stable.
But once I hit packed snow and icy intersections, it was clear these weren’t built for extreme winter driving. I had to brake earlier and take turns slower to stay in control.
That said, for mild winter areas or occasional snow, it’ll do the job. But if you’re dealing with frequent blizzards or black ice, a set of dedicated winter tires would be a safer choice.
Comfort – 9/10
Comfort is where this tire surprised me the most. From the moment I hit the road, I could tell the Scorpion AS Plus 3 was designed with smoothness in mind. It absorbed road imperfections beautifully.
Whether I was driving over rough city pavement or cruising down the interstate, the ride felt calm and cushioned. Even after hours of driving, I didn’t feel fatigued from vibration or harshness.
Pirelli clearly paid attention to road comfort here. It feels like driving on a memory foam mattress—supportive but soft enough to make every trip relaxing.
Noise Level – 8.5/10
Let’s talk about sound. Nobody likes a noisy ride, especially on long trips. The Scorpion AS Plus 3 performed admirably here too. At city speeds, they were almost whisper-quiet. On highways, there was a faint hum, but nothing disruptive or annoying.
In fact, compared to other all-season tires I’ve tested (like the Goodyear Assurance and Continental CrossContact), these were noticeably quieter. It’s one of those small details that make a big difference on road trips—you can actually enjoy your music without that constant tire drone in the background.
Treadwear – 9/10
Tread life often tells the real story. After thousands of miles, I checked the wear pattern and was genuinely impressed. The tread still looked even, with no signs of premature fading or cupping.
Pirelli claims this tire can last up to 70,000 miles, and I believe it. The rubber compound feels tough yet flexible—exactly what you want in a tire built for multiple seasons.
For drivers who clock lots of miles, that kind of durability is a major win. It’s not just about longevity; it’s about consistent performance over time. And so far, the Scorpion AS Plus 3 hasn’t disappointed.
What I Like About the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
After months of testing, a few standout qualities really stuck with me:
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Exceptional dry grip: You can trust it on highways or quick turns.
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Quiet, comfortable ride: Feels refined and relaxing even on long drives.
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Great rain performance: Handles wet conditions confidently with strong braking.
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Durable treadwear: Looks strong even after thousands of miles.
It’s a tire that feels well-balanced—enough grip for performance, enough softness for comfort.
What Could Be Better
Even the best tires have a few drawbacks, and the Scorpion AS Plus 3 is no exception:
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Struggles in deep snow or ice: It’s okay in slush but not built for harsh winters.
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Slight hydroplaning at high speeds: Deeper puddles can test its limits.
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Less precise steering at very high speeds: It’s stable, but lacks that razor-sharp control sports drivers might crave.
None of these are deal-breakers for everyday drivers, but they’re worth noting if you live somewhere with heavy snow or do lots of high-speed highway driving.
My Bittersweet Experience: When the Scorpion AS Plus 3 Showed Its Flaws
For all the good, there were a few frustrating moments too. Tires are like relationships—amazing most of the time, but with quirks that show up later. Here’s what I ran into during my test drives and what I did about it.
Problem 1: Slipping in Deep Snow and Ice
During one particularly bad storm, the roads were covered in packed snow and ice. The Scorpion AS Plus 3 struggled to maintain grip. Braking took longer than expected, and the rear occasionally wobbled during sharp turns.
My takeaway: This isn’t a snow tire, and that’s okay. If you live in a snowy region, keep a set of winter tires handy. For occasional snow, just drive slow and steady, and you’ll be fine.
Problem 2: Faster Tread Wear on Rough Roads
After a few months of mixed driving—highways, city roads, and a few gravel stretches—I noticed the tread wearing slightly faster on the front tires. It wasn’t dramatic, but it was visible.
My solution: I started rotating the tires every 6,000 miles, and it balanced out the wear nicely. Pirelli recommends regular rotations anyway, and after I stuck to that schedule, the wear evened out perfectly.
Problem 3: Noise Increase Over Time
At first, the tires were whisper-quiet. But after several thousand miles, a faint hum started creeping in, especially at 65+ mph.
My fix: I checked the alignment and balanced the tires again—it helped a lot. Slight wear changes can increase noise, so regular maintenance is key.
Problem 4: Slightly Stiff Ride on Rough Surfaces
While the tire is comfortable overall, I did notice that on cracked or bumpy streets, it can feel a bit stiff. It’s not jarring, but it’s noticeable if you’re used to very soft touring tires.
My advice: Dropping the tire pressure just a bit (within manufacturer guidelines) can smooth things out. Or just slow down a touch on broken pavement—it helps more than you’d think.
Alternative Option: Michelin Defender 2
If you’re shopping for all-season tires, it’s impossible not to compare the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 to the Michelin Defender 2. Both aim to deliver year-round comfort and durability—but they take different routes to get there.
I’ve tested both, and here’s what stood out.
The Michelin Defender 2 is built for drivers who prioritize longevity and quiet comfort over sporty handling. It feels softer, almost plush, compared to the Scorpion AS Plus 3. On long highway trips, the Defender 2 gives that floating sensation—like gliding more than rolling.
In contrast, the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 feels tighter and more responsive. It’s better for those who enjoy a little feedback from the road—people who like feeling connected, not disconnected.
Quick Comparison: Michelin Defender 2 vs. Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
| Feature | Michelin Defender 2 | Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Performance | Excellent grip and stability | Great, slightly sportier feel |
| Wet Performance | Very good, predictable braking | Very good, strong cornering control |
| Snow Handling | Better light-snow traction | Decent, not ideal for deep snow |
| Comfort | Ultra-smooth and cushioned | Smooth but more controlled |
| Noise Level | One of the quietest tires available | Quiet, but slightly louder over time |
| Tread Life | Extremely long-lasting (up to 80,000 miles) | Very durable (around 70,000 miles) |
| Price Range | Higher-end premium pricing | Slightly more affordable |
Both are excellent, but the choice depends on your priorities.
If you drive a lot of highway miles and crave silence and longevity, go for the Michelin Defender 2.
If you want a tire that feels lively, handles corners better, and costs a bit less, the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 hits the sweet spot.
What Did Michelin Defender 2 Improve Over the Original?
I owned the original Michelin Defender, and while it was reliable, it lacked that modern edge. The Defender 2 fixes that. It grips better in the rain, rides smoother, and wears down slower.
Michelin tweaked the rubber compound and tread design to improve mileage and wet traction. The difference is noticeable, especially during sudden stops on slick roads.
| Feature | Michelin Defender 2 | Original Michelin Defender |
|---|---|---|
| Tread Life | Longer lasting | Long lasting |
| Wet Grip | Significantly improved | Good, but older design |
| Ride Comfort | Softer, smoother | Firm but steady |
| Noise Control | Quieter highway ride | Moderate hum at high speeds |
If you loved the first version, the Defender 2 feels like the more mature, confident upgrade—it’s like trading in your sturdy work boots for a pair of polished loafers.
Is the Michelin Defender 2 a Quiet Tire?
Absolutely. Noise reduction is one of its biggest strengths.
I’ve driven long stretches on open highways with the Defender 2, and the silence is impressive. The hum of the road fades into the background, and conversations stay crystal clear inside the cabin.
Here’s how it stacks up in real-world driving:
| Driving Type | Michelin Defender 2 | Other All-Season Tires |
|---|---|---|
| Highway Noise | Very low | Moderate |
| City Noise | Minimal | Noticeable on rough roads |
| Comfort Level | High | Medium |
If you’re someone who does frequent long drives or road trips, this tire can make the experience so much more peaceful.
My Final Thoughts on Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
So, after months of testing across every kind of weather, here’s my honest verdict:
The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is a strong, well-rounded tire that delivers on most of its promises. It’s not perfect—but it’s impressive.
What I loved most: the confident dry grip, refined comfort, and consistent performance in rain. It made daily commuting feel effortless, and even on long drives, I never felt fatigued.
However, if your winters are brutal, you’ll want to swap to snow tires. The Scorpion AS Plus 3 can handle light flurries but doesn’t feel at home in deep snow or icy patches.
For most drivers, though, especially those in mild to moderate climates, it’s a fantastic all-season option that offers real value for money.
Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 Price
Pricing varies depending on size and retailer, but generally, you’ll find them in the range of $170–$230 per tire. That’s competitive for a premium brand like Pirelli—especially considering the performance and comfort it provides.
It’s not the cheapest tire out there, but in my opinion, it offers a great balance between price and long-term durability. Spending a little more upfront often pays off in fewer replacements down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 a good all-season tire?
Yes. It performs exceptionally well on dry and wet roads. It’s versatile and reliable for everyday driving, though it’s not meant for harsh snow or ice.
2. How long does the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 last?
With proper maintenance and regular rotations, it can last up to 70,000 miles—a solid lifespan for an all-season tire.
3. Is it quiet on highways?
Yes, it’s designed to minimize noise. While not completely silent, it’s impressively calm compared to many competitors.
4. How does it perform in rain?
Very well. The tread design helps channel water efficiently, reducing hydroplaning and providing confident braking.
5. Should I use it during winter?
It can handle light snow and slush, but not deep snow or icy roads. If you live in areas with harsh winters, you’re better off pairing it with dedicated snow tires.
6. What vehicles is it best for?
It’s great for SUVs, crossovers, and light trucks. Whether you’re driving a family SUV or a daily commuter, it delivers a smooth, balanced experience.
Final Verdict
The Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is like that friend who never complains—steady, composed, and dependable. It’s not flashy, but it quietly does its job extremely well.
It gives you:
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Confident grip in all weather (except deep snow)
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A relaxing, comfortable ride
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Low noise levels
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Strong tread life
If you value reliability, comfort, and balanced performance, this tire is an easy recommendation. And while the Michelin Defender 2 might win in overall quietness and longevity, the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 brings more responsiveness and driving enjoyment to the table.
At the end of the day, it’s about what kind of driver you are.
If you want something that blends comfort with control—without breaking the bank—this Pirelli tire is an honest, worthy choice.
