Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV vs Bridgestone Blizzak 6: The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV, launched in 2018, faces off against the all-new Bridgestone Blizzak 6, introduced in 2024. As the successor to the highly successful Blizzak LM005, which earned multiple press-test victories, the Blizzak 6 aims to reclaim its predecessor’s glory. Can Michelin’s trusted winter performer hold its ground, or will the new Blizzak 6 dominate the icy roads and take back the crown? Get ready for an intense middle European winter battle between these two giants!
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Results: Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV vs Bridgestone Blizzak 6
Results below were taken from 2024 AUTO Straßenverkehr SUV Winter Tire Test with a total of 10 tires tested. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV vs Bridgestone Blizzak 6 based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Since we are talking about the middle European winter segment with both tires having the converted 3 peak mountain logo, snow performances was tested. The tire size of interest is 235/55 R18 which is a common tire size for Audi Q3 & Volkswagen Tiguan. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Seat Tarraco.
Wet
The Bridgestone Blizzak 6 outperforms the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV in wet braking with a 1.2-meter shorter stopping distance (34.7 m vs. 35.9 m). In wet handling, the Blizzak 6 edges out slightly with a speed of 65.5 km/h compared to 65.4 km/h for the Michelin. The Blizzak 6 also leads in straight-line aquaplaning, holding on until 73.9 km/h, 1.5 km/h higher than the Pilot Alpin 5 SUV’s 72.4 km/h.
Blizzak 6 :
- +3% in wet braking
- ~0% in wet handling (average lap speed)
- +2% in straight aquaplaning
Snow
The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV stops just 0.2 meters slower than the Bridgestone Blizzak 6 in snow braking (24.5 m vs. 24.3 m). However, it pulls ahead in snow traction with an acceleration of 1.48 m/s², slightly better than the Blizzak 6’s 1.4 m/s². In snow handling, the Michelin also has the edge, maintaining a speed of 48.8 km/h compared to the Blizzak 6’s 47.8 km/h.
Blizzak 6 :
- +1% in snow braking
- -5% in snow traction
- -2% in snow handling (average lap speed)
Dry
The Michelin delivers superior dry braking, stopping 1.7 meters shorter (42.9 m vs. 44.6 m), which can make a critical difference in emergencies. However, when it comes to dry handling, both tires perform identically, maintaining a speed of 114.5 km/h
Blizzak 6 :
- -4% in dry braking
- ~0% in dry handling (average lap speed)
Noise
The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV is noticeably quieter than the Bridgestone Blizzak 6, producing 1.5 dB less noise (71.4 dB vs. 72.9 dB). This difference provides a more comfortable and quieter driving experience with the Michelin tire.
Blizzak 6 :
- -2% in exterior noise (+1.5 dB)
Rolling Resistance
The Bridgestone Blizzak 6 offers better rolling resistance than the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV, with 0.5 N/kN less drag (7.9 N/kN vs. 8.4 N/kN). This makes the Blizzak 6 more efficient, potentially contributing to lower fuel consumption.
Blizzak 6 :
- +6% in rolling resistance
Price
The Bridgestone Blizzak 6 is 25% cheaper than the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV, priced at €174 compared to €217. This significant price difference makes the Blizzak 6 a more budget-friendly option in the 235/55R18 size.
Tire size: 235/55R18
- Blizzak 6 : € 174
Difference: -25% more cheaper for Blizzak 6
Conclusion from a Tire Expert’s Perspective:
From my perspective as a tire expert, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 SUV excels with superior dry performance, better snow traction, and quieter road noise, offering a refined driving experience. On the other hand, the Bridgestone Blizzak 6 impresses with stronger wet braking, lower rolling resistance, and a more affordable price, making it a practical and efficient choice for winter driving. Both tires have their strengths, so the choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize performance refinement or cost-effectiveness with fuel savings.
Dr Edwin Pang