Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 vs Michelin Pilot Sport 4S : Michelin, the world’s leading tire manufacturer, has recently replaced its flagship high-performance tire, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, with the new and improved Michelin Pilot Sport S 5. The Pilot Sport S 5 has been meticulously engineered to further enhance the already impressive performance of its predecessor, offering drivers unprecedented levels of control, handling, and grip.
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New Feature Highlights
Michelin Pilot Sport S 5: Razor-sharp handling for assertive control
The Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 summer tire offers razor-sharp handling for assertive control. It features Dynamic Response Technology for ultra-responsive handling and a hybrid belt of aramid and nylon to expertly transmit driver instructions to the road. This results in a high-performance driving experience.
Michelin Pilot Sport S 5: Remarkable wet and dry grip for next-level performance
The Michelin Sport S 5 tire provides remarkable grip on both wet and dry surfaces, resulting in next-level performance. The Dual Sport Tread Design with Bi-Compound Technology and large tread blocks allows for maximum grip on road and track. Additionally, the rubber compound and longitudinal grooves improve wet road traction, allowing drivers to confidently explore the potential of their sports car in any condition.
EU label comparison: Pilot Sport S 5 vs Pilot Sport 4S
| Product | Size | Rolling Resistance | Wet Braking | Noise (dB) |
| Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 | 245/40R21 96Y | D | B | 71 |
| Michelin Pilot Sport 4S | 245/40ZR21(100Y)XL | C | A | 71 |
| Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 | 275/35R21 99Y | D | B | 71 |
| Michelin Pilot Sport 4S | 275/35ZR21 (103Y) XL | C | A | 71 |
| Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 | 275/35ZR21 (103Y) XL AML ACOUSTIC | C | B | 73 |
| Michelin Pilot Sport 4S | 275/35ZR21 (103Y) XL AML | D | B | 71 |
| Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 | 325/30ZR21 (108Y) XL AML ACOUSTIC | C | B | 75 |
| Michelin Pilot Sport 4S | 325/30ZR21 (108Y) XL | C | A | 73 |
The table displayed above illustrates a comparison between the EU labels for the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S. As the Pilot Sport S 5 is currently only available in four sizes, which are mainly intended for Michelin’s OE customers, we will use these sizes to compare it with its predecessor, the Pilot Sport 4S.
According to the values presented in the table, it appears that the four sizes of the Pilot Sport S 5 have received a lower grade rating of “B” in comparison to the “A” rating of the Pilot Sport 4S. Interestingly, the rolling resistance values are also one level lower in two out of four cases, with the Pilot Sport S 5 having a label of “D” compared to the “C” label of the Pilot Sport 4S. When it comes to noise, the first two sizes are quite similar, but curiously, the acoustic version of both the Pilot Sport S 5 sizes has a higher noise value of +2 dB compared to the non-acoustic version.
Overall, the lower wet braking label grades certainly do not align with Michelin’s earlier tagline of “Remarkable Wet Grip.” One of the suspected reasons could be due to the OE sizing, as the compound used in the Pilot Sport S 5 may differ from the standard replacement ones. Stay tuned as we investigate further on the Pilot Sport S 5 replacement’s EU label.
Price
Indeed, Michelin, as a pioneering force in tire technology, offers a premium product in the market. The Pilot Sport S 5 stands out as one of the most costly tires available in the market. In terms of market pricing, the Pilot Sport S 5 commands a ₤108 premium over the Pilot Sport 4S of comparable size. Given that this product is relatively new and its supply is limited, it is not uncommon to witness a higher initial pricing for a new generation product.
Tire size: 245/40 R21
Pilot Sport S 5 : ₤536
Pilot Sport 4S : ₤428
Difference: +20% more expensive for Pilot Sport S 5.
Summary
To conclude, Michelin has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to excellence with the launch of the new Michelin Pilot Sport S 5. This tire presents drivers with an unparalleled fusion of handling, control, and grip, rendering it the ultimate high-performance tire. However, it’s worth noting that the initial four sizes of the Pilot Sport S 5 do not meet the standards set by its predecessor’s labels. This variation in ratings may be attributed to the utilization of a distinct compound for the OE sizing of the Pilot Sport S 5. As we eagerly await the replacement EU labels for the Pilot Sport S 5, we anticipate real testing results, which are projected to be available in the summer of 2023!