Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV vs Bridgestone Potenza Sport: In this epic showdown, we have the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV, a tire launched in 2019 specifically tailored for ultra high SUV performance, going head-to-head with the Bridgestone Potenza Sport, a 2020 contender from the ultra-high performance (UUHP) segment. While the Potenza Sport primarily targets sports cars, it intriguingly crosses over into the SUV arena with its overlapping sizes. This clash between Michelin’s dedicated SUV powerhouse and Bridgestone’s UUHP giant promises to deliver an intense battle for supremacy on both the road and the track!
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Results: Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV vs Bridgestone Potenza Sport
Results below were taken from 2024 Auto Bild Summer SUV Tire Test with a total of 11 tires tested, The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV vs Bridgestone Potenza Sport based on the relevant performance category. The 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 an SUV in the form of Audi Q5.
Wet
In wet braking, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV stops 0.6 meters shorter than the Bridgestone Potenza Sport, with a stopping distance of 49.3 meters compared to 49.9 meters. When it comes to wet handling, the Potenza Sport edges out the competition, achieving an average speed of 83.7 km/h, slightly faster than the Pilot Sport 4 SUV’s 82.1 km/h. However, in straight-line aquaplaning, the Pilot Sport 4 SUV performs better, with a slipping speed of 93.3 km/h, while the Potenza Sport starts slipping at a lower speed of 86.9 km/h.
Potenza Sport :
- -1% in wet braking
- +2% in wet handling (average speed)
- -7% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
In dry braking, the Bridgestone Potenza Sport outperforms the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV, stopping 0.8 meters shorter with a distance of 33.4 meters compared to 34.2 meters. For dry handling, the Potenza Sport also has a slight edge, maintaining an average speed of 107.5 km/h, just 0.2 km/h faster than the Pilot Sport 4 SUV’s 107.3 km/h.
Potenza Sport :
- +2% in dry braking
- ~0% in dry handling (average speed)
Noise
In terms of exterior noise, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV is slightly quieter than the Bridgestone Potenza Sport, producing 70.4 dB compared to the Potenza Sport’s 71 dB, a difference of 0.6 dB.
Potenza Sport :
- -1% in exterior noise (+0.6 dB)
Rolling Resistance
In terms of rolling resistance, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV performs better, requiring 8.25 N/kN compared to the Bridgestone Potenza Sport’s 9.23 N/kN. This means the Potenza Sport has higher rolling resistance, which could lead to slightly less fuel efficiency compared to the Pilot Sport 4 SUV.
Potenza Sport :
- -11% in rolling resistance
Price
The Bridgestone Potenza Sport is significantly more affordable, priced at €140, which is 33% cheaper than the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV at €209. Michelin consistently reflects its super premium status in its prices, making it the more expensive option in this comparison.
Tire size: 235/35 R19
Difference: -33% more cheaper for Potenza Sport.
Summary
From a tire expert’s perspective, both the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV and Bridgestone Potenza Sport offer distinct advantages. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV excels in rolling resistance and noise, making it a quieter and potentially more fuel-efficient choice, while also showcasing its premium build. On the other hand, the Bridgestone Potenza Sport offers superior dry performance, particularly in braking and handling, and comes at a much more affordable price, making it an excellent value for those prioritizing dry grip and cost-effectiveness. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the refined comfort and efficiency of the Michelin or the sharper performance and value of the Bridgestone.
Dr Edwin Pang