Falken ZIEX ZE320 vs Michelin Primacy 5 — Two fresh contenders, both newly launched in 2025, ready to shake up the touring segment. On one side, Falken’s all-new ZE320 promises value-driven performance with upgraded comfort and wet grip. On the other, the Michelin Primacy 5 returns with enhanced refinement and tread life, targeting class-leading touring excellence. It’s new tech vs proven pedigree — who truly rules the road in 2025? Let the battle begin!
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Results: Falken ZIEX ZE320 vs Michelin Primacy 5
The results presented here are from the UTAC/Aftonbladet Summer Tire Test, where 8 of the best summer tire models were selected plus an interesting addition of 4 all season tires. The accompanying graph provides a side-by-side comparison of the Falken ZIEX ZE320 vs Michelin Primacy 5 across various performance categories, with the Falken ZIEX ZE320 serving as the benchmark at 100%.
The tire size of interest is the 225/45R17 tire size, a popular choice for vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf & Toyota Corolla. For further insights into various tire sizes, feel free to consult our latest tire size table. The tests were conducted using a standard Audi A3 series as the test vehicle.
Wet
In wet braking, the Michelin Primacy 5 stops 3.3 meters shorter than the Falken ZIEX ZE320, giving it a 10% advantage. Around the wet handling course, the Primacy 5 is 1.5 seconds quicker, which translates to a 2% improvement in lap time. Subjectively, the Primacy 5 scores a perfect 10 out of 10 for wet handling feel, while the ZE320 trails behind at 7 points — a significant 15% gap in driver confidence. In straight-line aquaplaning, the Primacy 5 holds on 2.3 km/h faster than the ZE320, offering a 3% better resistance.
Overall, the Michelin Primacy 5 clearly outperforms the Falken ZE320 in all aspects of wet driving, with shorter braking, quicker handling, better feedback, and stronger aquaplaning resistance — making it the superior wet-weather touring tire.
Primacy 5 :
- +10% in wet braking
- +2% in wet handling
- +15% in subj wet handling
- +3% in aquaplaning
Dry
In dry braking, the Falken ZIEX ZE320 stops 0.8 meters shorter than the Michelin Primacy 5, giving it a slight 2% advantage. For subjective dry handling, both tires are evenly matched with a score of 9 out of 10, showing equal confidence and control in everyday dry conditions. While both deliver excellent dry handling feel, the ZE320 edges ahead slightly in braking, offering a small but measurable benefit when it comes to stopping power.
Primacy 5 :
- -2% in dry braking
- 0% in dry handling
Wear
While mileage wasn’t directly tested in this comparison, we’re referencing results from previous standardized tests using the Continental PremiumContact 7 as a benchmark. In those evaluations, the Falken ZIEX ZE320 achieved an estimated 35,520 km, while the Michelin Primacy 5 reached a much higher 71,889 km. This gives the Primacy 5 a remarkable advantage of 36,369 km, translating to a 102% longer estimated tread life compared to the ZE320.
Primacy 5 :
- +102% in mileage (estimated)
Noise
In terms of subjective noise, both the Falken ZIEX ZE320 and the Michelin Primacy 5 score a perfect 10 out of 10. This means both tires offer equally excellent cabin quietness, delivering a refined and comfortable ride with minimal road noise.
Primacy 5 :
- 0% in subjective noise
Rolling Resistance
In rolling resistance, the Michelin Primacy 5 performs slightly better with a lower value of 7.74 N/kN compared to the Falken ZIEX ZE320’s 7.99 N/kN. That’s a 0.25 N/kN difference, giving the Primacy 5 a 3% advantage. This translates to marginally better fuel efficiency or extended EV range over time.
Primacy 5 :
- +3% in rolling resistance
Price
For the 225/45 R17 size, the Falken ZIEX ZE320 is priced at €86, while the Michelin Primacy 5 costs €119. That makes the Primacy 5 38% more expensive than the ZE320.
Tire size: 225/45 R17
- ZIEX ZE320 : € 86
- Primacy 5 : € 119
Difference: +38% more expensive for Primacy 5
Summary
As a tire expert, I see clear strengths in both. The Falken ZIEX ZE320 offers impressive dry braking, excellent comfort, and great value for the price—making it a solid everyday touring choice. But if you’re prioritizing all-round performance, especially in wet conditions and long-term mileage, the Michelin Primacy 5 is on another level. It delivers superior wet grip, much longer tread life, and slightly better fuel efficiency—justifying its higher price for those seeking top-tier touring performance.
Dr Edwin Pang