Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV vs Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6: In the ultra-high performance (UHP) tire arena, Goodyear’s Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 has been a formidable contender, consistently outperforming rivals in multiple tests. As it expands its prowess into the SUV segment, the question arises: can it maintain its dominance against specialized competition?
Enter the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV—a tire specifically engineered for the unique demands of high-performance sport utility vehicles. This matchup is more than just a test of traction; it’s a clash of titans. The Michelin, known for its precision and endurance, versus the Goodyear, celebrated for its cutting-edge technology and exceptional handling. Gear up for a high-octane duel as these two giants go head-to-head, promising to redefine the standards of SUV performance tires.
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Results: Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV vs Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6
Results below were taken from 2024 Auto Bild EV Summer tire test with a total of 9 tires tested, The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV vs Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 based on the relevant performance category. Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Note that for both wet & dry handling evaluation, the average lap speed was used instead of the standard lap time & subjective rating. The tire size of interest is 235/35 R19 which is a common tire size for Audi R8 & Volkswagen Golf R. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a KIA EV6 which is an compact electric powered crossover SUV.
Wet
In wet conditions, the competition between the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV and the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is incredibly tight, each tire displaying particular strengths. The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 has a slight edge in wet braking, stopping at 39.1 meters, just a hair shorter than the Michelin’s 39.2 meters. Conversely, the Michelin shows a small advantage in wet handling, with an average speed of 58.5 km/h compared to the Goodyear’s 58.3 km/h.
The Michelin continues to perform slightly better in the wet circle test, completing the circuit in 12.93 seconds, marginally quicker than the Goodyear’s 13.01 seconds. In straight-line aquaplaning, Michelin leads with a slipping speed of 95.5 km/h, surpassing Goodyear’s 94.6 km/h, which suggests better resistance to aquaplaning in straight conditions. However, in curved aquaplaning, the tires are almost indistinguishable, with Michelin achieving a maximum lateral acceleration of 3.25 m/sec² and Goodyear slightly higher at 3.27 m/sec².
In conclusion, the performance margins between the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV and the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 in wet conditions are razor-thin, with both tires performing neck and neck, demonstrating that each has tailored strengths that meet high standards for wet performance.
Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6:
- ~0% in wet braking
- ~0% in wet handling (average speed)
- -1% in wet circle
- -1% in straight aquaplaning
- +1% in curved aquaplaning
Dry
In dry conditions, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV and the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 continue their close competition. For dry braking, the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 slightly outperforms the Michelin, stopping at 33.9 meters compared to Michelin’s 34.1 meters—a minimal difference of just 0.2 meters. When it comes to dry handling, the Michelin takes the lead with an average speed of 70.9 km/h, which is slightly faster than Goodyear’s 70.4 km/h.
These small margins highlight the high level of performance both tires deliver under dry conditions, with each having marginal advantages in different aspects of dry performance. Just like their wet performances, there is virtually nothing separating these two in dry conditions, underscoring their exceptional capabilities on dry surfaces.
Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6:
- +1% in dry braking
- -1% in dry handling (average speed)
Mileage
In terms of mileage performance, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV outlasts the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6. The Michelin can travel up to 35,865 kilometers before needing replacement, which is significantly longer than the Goodyear’s 33,015 kilometers—a difference of 2,850 kilometers. This suggests that the Michelin tire offers better durability and longevity, providing additional value over the distance it can cover compared to the Goodyear.
Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6:
- -8% in mileage
Noise
In terms of exterior noise performance, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV and the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 are evenly matched, both registering 70 dB in their noise tests. This indicates that both tires produce the same level of sound, suggesting that neither has a distinct advantage over the other when it comes to noise reduction. Riders can expect a similar auditory experience with either tire, maintaining comfort without any noticeable difference in noise levels.
Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6:
- 0% in exterior noise
Battery Range
In examining the battery range performances of the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV and the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6, an interesting contradiction emerges between rolling resistance and energy consumption. The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 shows a lower rolling resistance at 7.51 N/kN compared to the Michelin’s 7.99 N/kN, typically suggesting better fuel efficiency. However, paradoxically, the Goodyear has a higher energy consumption of 20.02 kWh/100km, whereas the Michelin uses less energy at 19.17 kWh/100km.
This unusual scenario, where a tire with lower rolling resistance consumes more energy, might be influenced by factors such as air resistance & actual testing conditions that aren’t directly measured by rolling resistance alone. Thus, despite Goodyear’s lower rolling resistance, Michelin proves to be more energy-efficient in practical terms, offering better battery range performance for electric vehicles.
Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6:
- +6% in rolling resistance
- -4% in energy consumption
Price
When comparing the prices of the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV and the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 for the tire size 235/35 R19, the Goodyear is notably more affordable. Priced at €154, the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is 26% cheaper than the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV, which costs €194. This significant price difference makes the Goodyear a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality and performance.
Tire size: 235/35 R19
Difference: -26% more cheaper for Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6.
Summary
As a tire expert, I find both the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV and the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 deliver comparable performances in wet and dry conditions, making either a solid choice for those prioritizing safety and handling. The Michelin, however, has an edge in wear performance, offering greater longevity and durability, which is crucial for high-mileage drivers.
Despite the Goodyear’s lower rolling resistance, which usually suggests better fuel efficiency, it paradoxically shows higher energy consumption, a curious anomaly that may be influenced by factors beyond just rolling resistance. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you value longevity or are looking to save upfront with potentially lower fuel costs, despite the unusual energy usage.
Dr Edwin Pang