Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 vs Dunlop Winter Response 2: Launched in 2014, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 entered the stage as a high-performance winter tire for sporty sedans and coupes, while the Dunlop Winter Response 2, debuting a year earlier in 2013, targeted compact and mid-size cars with a strong focus on safety and efficiency. Now, these two veterans face off in the Middle European winter segment, where slush, rain, and snow define the battlefield — a clash between Michelin’s precision performance and Dunlop’s balanced winter mastery.
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Results: Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 vs Dunlop Winter Response 2
Results below were taken from 2025 Autobild Winter Tire Test with a total of 20 tires tested including 1 reference summer tire. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 vs Dunlop Winter Response 2 based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 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 225/40 R18 which is a common tire size for Subaru Impreza & BMW 3 Series. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a BMW M135i.
Wet
In wet braking, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 stopped just 0.1 m shorter than the Dunlop Winter Response 2 — a negligible 0% difference. In wet handling, the Michelin was faster, averaging 83.4 km/h versus Dunlop’s 80.4 km/h, a 3 km/h or roughly 4% advantage. In straight-line aquaplaning, the Michelin also held slightly better grip at 75.2 km/h compared to 74.1 km/h, about 1% faster.
Overall, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 shows marginally better wet performance, delivering slightly more control and stability on soaked roads.
Winter Response 2 :
- ~0% in wet braking
- -4% in wet handling (lap time)
- -1% in straight aquaplaning
Snow
In snow braking, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 stopped 0.3 m later than the Dunlop Winter Response 2, about 1% weaker. In snow traction, the Dunlop produced 75 N more pulling force — roughly 3% stronger. In snow handling, the Michelin was slightly quicker at 59.3 km/h versus 58.6 km/h, giving it a 1% speed advantage.
Overall, Dunlop holds a small edge in braking and traction, while Michelin counters with slightly better handling precision on snow.
Winter Response 2 :
- +1% in snow braking
- +3% in snow traction
- -1% in snow handling (lap time)
Mileage
The Dunlop Winter Response 2 achieved 3,710 km more mileage than the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5, which is about 8% longer tread life. Overall, the Dunlop clearly offers better durability and wear performance over time.
Winter Response 2 :
- +8% in mileage
Dry
In dry braking, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 stopped 2.9 m shorter than the Dunlop Winter Response 2, giving it a 6% advantage. In dry handling, the Michelin was also faster, averaging 116.7 km/h versus 114.4 km/h, about 2% quicker. Overall, the Michelin clearly outperforms in dry conditions, offering stronger grip and sharper handling response.
Winter Response 2 :
- -6% in dry braking
- -2% in dry handling (lap time)
NVH
In subjective comfort, the Dunlop Winter Response 2 scored 0.7 points higher than the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5, about 3.5% better in overall ride comfort. Exterior Noise levels were nearly identical, with the Michelin measuring 65.0 dB and the Dunlop 65.2 dB — a negligible 0% difference. Overall, the Dunlop provides a slightly smoother ride, while both perform equally well in cabin quietness.
Winter Response 2 :
- +3.5% in subjective comfort
- ~0% in interior noise
Rolling Resistance
The Dunlop Winter Response 2 showed a slightly lower rolling resistance at 8.58 N/kN compared to the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5’s 8.7 N/kN, giving Dunlop a 1% advantage. Overall, the Dunlop is marginally more efficient, offering slightly better fuel economy potential.
Winter Response 2 :
- +1% in rolling resistance
Price
For the 225/40 R18 size, the Dunlop Winter Response 2 costs €135 compared to the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 at €153, making it 13% cheaper. Overall, the Dunlop offers a more budget-friendly option while maintaining competitive winter performance.
Tire size: 225/40 R18
- Pilot Alpin 5 : € 153
- Winter Response 2 : € 135
Difference: -13% more cheaper for Winter Response 2
Conclusion from a Tire Expert’s Perspective:
From my perspective as a tire expert, the Michelin Pilot Alpin 5 stands out for its superior dry and wet handling precision, offering sharper control and a sportier driving feel in variable winter conditions. The Dunlop Winter Response 2, on the other hand, impresses with its longer mileage, better comfort, and lower rolling resistance — making it the more practical and efficient choice for everyday drivers. Both are excellent winter options, but your pick depends on whether you value dynamic performance or long-term comfort and economy.
Dr Edwin Pang