I haven't used the defender, but lots of people use CC2 and are happy with them. They do have some drawbacks, though (~10% lower range, loud) compared to the OEM self seals. I assume the defenders would have the same issues.
Then there's this:

Michelin Defender 2 Vs CrossClimate 2: Which Tire Wins? - Drive Cruise

When it comes to choosing the right tires for our vehicles, we're all looking for that perfect blend of durability, performance, and safety. Enter the debate

drivecruise.com

 

The makers of tires put the number on their tires and have a warranty to cover some miles.

Defender 2 UTQG: 840 B B 80K Mile Manufacturer's Warranty

Cross Climate 2 UTQG: 640 B A SNOW tire. 60K Mile Manufacturer's Warranty

Tire Search Results

 

Thanks for the replies. However longer mileage warranty, Costco is not giving any prorated discount. They said it is common for EV to wearout though I only used 40k miles. I am in Tampa Florida. It seems cross climate 2 is good for snow conditions. Probably either might be ok but have to check on which is suitable for frequent rain conditions.

 

However longer mileage warranty, Costco is not giving any prorated discount.

Not surprising.
The tire manufacturer honors the warranty, not Costco. Go to discount tire and see what they say. They deal with this sort of thing all the time.

 

You need something like

600+. A A rated tires and good rain reviews on discount tire web site.

They list a number of metrics on most tires. One of the metrics is rain/wet.

 

Almost any tire is better in rain than the OEM's. The OEM tires are best in low rolling resistance.

 

I've driven my 23 EUV barely over 18k miles and Discount Tire is telling me my front tires are down to 4/32 and the rears are at 5/32 and it's time to replace at least the front ones. That seems pretty low, even for the OEM LRR Michelins. But does that match you guys's experience? Also DT is recommending the LRR yokohamas which go for $160 per tire.

 

4/32 of an inch is a bit over 3 mm. It's my understanding that the replacement tread depth is 2 mm. Check out the tread wear indicators on the tire to see if they've become flush with the tread.

 

DT is maybe over aggressively selling tires.

Do your own research to find best for you.

Post priority of needs and wants.

 

Mostly I want to maintain energy efficiency as economically as possible. Weather around here isn't really a factor, so I don't need to trade away efficiency or cost for weather-related grip.

 

OEM tires best LRR I think.
Terrible traction and not great mileage. They aren't cheap. They have sealant.