Michelin Pilot Sport 4S vs BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A: Both tires come from the same parent — Michelin. The Pilot Sport 4S, launched in 2017, is a proven UHP icon. The g-Force Phenom T/A, new for 2025 under the BFGoodrich name, enters the scene with bold ambitions. Same DNA, different badge — could this be the surprise challenger the segment didn’t expect?
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Results: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S vs BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A
Results below were taken from Tire Rack’s Ultra High Performance vs. Max Performance Summer Tires Test. A total of 11 tires were tested on Tire Rack’s proving ground including the max & ultra high performance summer tires. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Pilot Sport 4S vs BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
The tire size of interest is a 275/35R19 which is a common tire size for BMW M2 & M3. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle for this tire test is a 2024 BMW M2.
Wet
In wet braking, the BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A stopped 0.4 feet later than the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S — a close to 0% longer distance. On the wet handling track, the Phenom T/A completed the wet lap in 32.06 seconds, which is 0.88 seconds slower than the 4S — a 3% gap. Interestingly, in subjective wet handling feel, the Phenom T/A scored slightly higher at 7.44 versus the 4S’s 7.38, a marginal 0% difference.
While the Pilot Sport 4S maintains a clear lead in measurable wet performance, the Phenom T/A offers a surprisingly confident feel behind the wheel.
g-Force Phenom T/A :
- ~0% in wet braking
- ~0% in wet handling (subj)
- -3% in wet handling (lap time)
Dry
In dry braking, the BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A stopped 4.4 feet later than the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S — a 4% longer distance. On the dry handling course, the Phenom T/A clocked a lap time of 29.08 seconds, trailing the 4S by 0.46 seconds or 2%. Subjectively, the 4S also felt sharper, scoring 8.00 versus 7.25 for the Phenom — a notable 4% difference in driver confidence.
Overall, the Pilot Sport 4S clearly outperforms the Phenom T/A in dry conditions, offering better stopping power, quicker lap times, and more precise handling feedback.
g-Force Phenom T/A :
- -4% in dry braking
- -4% in dry handling (subj)
- -2% in dry handling (lap time)
Noise/Comfort/Ride Quality
In terms of noise, comfort, and ride quality, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S scored 7.08 while the BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A came in at 6.58 — a difference of 0.5 points, or about 3% lower for the Phenom.
g-Force Phenom T/A :
- -3% in average of Noise, Comfort & Ride Quality.
UTQG ratings
The BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A has a UTQG treadwear rating of 380, which is 80 points higher than the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S at 300 — a 27% increase in expected tread life. Despite this, only the Pilot Sport 4S comes with a 30,000-mile limited mileage warranty, while the Phenom T/A does not include any mileage guarantee.
| Brand | Tireline | Size | Tread Wear | Traction | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin | Pilot Sport 4S | All | 300 | AA | A |
| BFGoordich | g-Force Phenom T/A | All | 380 | AA | A |
Price
In 275/35R19, the BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A is priced at $272, while the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S costs $349. That makes the Phenom T/A a full $77 cheaper — a 28% lower price.
Tire size: 275/35R19
- Pilot Sport 4S : $ 349
- g-Force Phenom T/A : $ 272
Difference: -28% more cheaper for g-Force Phenom T/A.
Summary
As a tire expert, I’d say this: the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S delivers sharper handling, stronger braking, and better comfort — it’s the gold standard. But the BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A gets surprisingly close in performance, offers better treadwear, and costs 28% less. If you want peak performance, go 4S. If you want value without giving up much, the Phenom T/A is a smart pick.
Dr Edwin Pang