Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Kumho Ecsta Sport – The battle in the summer UHP segment just got interesting! The all-new 2025 Kumho Ecsta Sport has already stunned the industry by beating the Continental SportContact 7 in wet braking by 6%—a shocking feat. But can it pull off another upset against the well-established Michelin Pilot Sport 5, a tire renowned for its balanced performance and longevity? Get ready for a head-to-head clash that could reshape the UHP landscape!
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Results: Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Kumho Ecsta Sport
The results featured here are from the 2025 Die-Reifentester Summer Tire Test, with 8 model of the finest tires were tested. The accompanying graph presents a side-by-side comparison of the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Kumho Ecsta Sport across various performance categories, with the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 serving as the benchmark at the 100% mark.
For subjective ratings, the test uses a simple 1-5 scale: 5 (Very Good), 4 (Good), 3 (Satisfactory), 2 (Adequate), and 1 (Poor), replacing the traditional 10-point system for clarity. The tire size of interest is the 225/40R18 tire size, a popular choice for vehicles like the BMW 3 series Audi A4. For further insights into various tire sizes, feel free to consult our latest tire size table. The tests were conducted using a standard Volkswagen Golf as the test vehicle.
Wet
The Kumho Ecsta Sport outperforms the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 in wet braking, stopping 1.3 meters sooner, which is a 6% shorter braking distance. In wet handling, the Kumho takes the lead again with a higher subjective rating of 5 compared to Michelin’s 3, suggesting better grip and control in wet conditions. However, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 edges out in straight-line aquaplaning, maintaining traction up to 78.2 km/h, which is 0.3 km/h (~0%) higher than the Kumho, indicating slightly better resistance to hydroplaning.
Ecsta Sport :
- +6% in wet braking
- +10% in subjective wet handling
- ~0% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
The Kumho Ecsta Sport stops 0.3 meters shorter than the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 in dry braking, making it 1% better in stopping performance. In dry handling, the Kumho once again takes the lead with a perfect 5/5 subjective rating, compared to the Michelin’s 4/5, suggesting a sharper and more responsive driving experience.
Ecsta Sport :
- +1% in dry braking
- +5% in subjective dry handling
Noise & Comfort
Both the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 and the Kumho Ecsta Sport are evenly matched in comfort and interior noise, with each receiving a 4/5 subjective rating. This means neither tire holds a clear advantage in ride smoothness or cabin noise levels, making them equally refined for daily driving.
Ecsta Sport :
- 0% in comfort
- 0% in interior noise
Rolling Resistance
The Kumho Ecsta Sport has a higher rolling resistance at 9.13 N/kN, compared to the Michelin Pilot Sport 5’s 8.86 N/kN, making the Michelin 3% more fuel-efficient. This means the Pilot Sport 5 requires less energy to roll, potentially offering better fuel economy over long distances.
Ecsta Sport :
- -3% in rolling resistance
Price
The Kumho Ecsta Sport is a clear bargain, priced at €77, making it 62% cheaper than the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 at €125. With such a massive price gap, the Ecsta Sport offers exceptional value, especially considering its strong wet and dry performance.
Tire size: 225/40 R18
- Pilot Sport 5 : € 125
- Ecsta Sport : € 77
Difference: -62% more cheaper for Ecsta Sport
Summary
As a tire expert, it’s clear that the Kumho Ecsta Sport delivers a shocking performance advantage over the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 in both wet and dry conditions, while also being 62% cheaper. Although wear isn’t tested here, past results show the Pilot Sport 5 had 30% better wear than its predecessor, suggesting it might still hold an edge in longevity. However, with superior braking, handling, and an unbeatable price, the Kumho Ecsta Sport emerges as the clear winner, proving it’s a serious contender in the UHP segment.
Dr Edwin Pang