Michelin Primacy 4+ vs Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2: In the competitive world of touring tires, the battle is intensifying with Michelin’s latest offering, the Primacy 4+, facing off against the seasoned Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2. Launched in 2022, the Michelin Primacy 4+ is the newest contender, promising superior performance and longevity. In contrast, the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2, introduced back in 2016, remains a solid choice with its established track record. But can this veteran still hold its ground against the modern innovations of the Primacy 4+? Let’s delve into how these two tires stack up in today’s dynamic touring segment.
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Results: Michelin Primacy 4+ vs Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2
The results featured here are from the 2024 ADAC Summer Tire Test, with 16 model of the finest tires were tested. Wear bring a extremely pricey and expensive test were provided to our delight. The accompanying graph presents a side-by-side comparison of the Michelin Primacy 4+ vs Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 across various performance categories, with the Michelin Primacy 4+ serving as the benchmark at the 100% mark.
The tire size of interest is the 215/55R17 tire size, a popular choice for vehicles like the Honda HRV and Hyundai Kona Electric. For further insights into various tire sizes, feel free to consult our latest tire size table. The tests were conducted using a standard Volkswagen T-Roc as the test vehicle.
Wet
In wet conditions, the Michelin Primacy 4+ outshines the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 in braking performance. The Primacy 4+ brings the car to a stop in 31.1 meters from 80 km/h, while the SportMaxx RT 2 takes 34.4 meters, a difference of 3.3 meters. This indicates that the Michelin tire offers better braking efficiency on wet surfaces.
However, when it comes to aquaplaning resistance, the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 holds a slight edge. It can maintain traction up to a speed of 77.8 km/h before slipping, whereas the Michelin Primacy 4+ starts to slip at 75.3 km/h. This shows that the Dunlop tire is marginally better at handling water on the road, reducing the risk of aquaplaning at higher speeds.
SportMaxx RT 2 :
- -10% in wet braking
- +3% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
In dry conditions, the Michelin Primacy 4+ and Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 are almost neck and neck in braking performance. The Michelin stops the car from 100 km/h in 37.3 meters, just slightly ahead of the Dunlop, which takes 37.5 meters. This mere 0.2-meter difference shows both tires deliver nearly identical stopping power on dry roads.
SportMaxx RT 2 :
- -1% in dry braking
Wear
When it comes to longevity, the Michelin Primacy 4+ significantly outperforms the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2. The Michelin tire offers a remarkable wear life of 60,300 km, far surpassing the Dunlop’s 43,700 km by 16,600 km. Additionally, the Primacy 4+ exhibits lower abrasion, losing 48.1 mg of tread per kilometer compared to the Dunlop’s 79.8 mg. This means the Michelin tire not only lasts longer but also wears down more slowly.
Considering the challenging balance between wet braking performance and mileage, Michelin’s Primacy 4+ excels, delivering superior wet braking while maintaining exceptional durability, a feat that puts it ahead of the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 in managing this trade-off.
SportMaxx RT 2 :
- -28% in mileage
- -40% in abrasion
Noise
In terms of exterior noise, the Michelin Primacy 4+ is slightly quieter than the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2. The Michelin produces 70.7 dB, while the Dunlop registers at 71.8 dB. This 1.1 dB difference means the Michelin tire provides a marginally more pleasant and quieter ride compared to the Dunlop.
SportMaxx RT 2 :
- -2% in exterior noise (+1.1 dB)
Fuel Consumption
The Michelin Primacy 4+ offers slightly better fuel efficiency than the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2. The Michelin consumes 5.8 liters per 100 km, whereas the Dunlop uses 5.9 liters per 100 km. This minor difference of 0.1 liters means the Michelin tire is marginally more economical, helping to reduce fuel consumption over long distances.
SportMaxx RT 2 :
- -2% in fuel consumption
Price
For the tire size 215/55 R17, the Michelin Primacy 4+ is priced at €154, while the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 costs €144. This makes the Dunlop tire 7% cheaper than the Michelin, offering a more budget-friendly option for those considering cost.
Tire size: 215/55 R17
- Primacy 4+ : € 154
- SportMaxx RT 2 : € 144
Difference: -7% more cheaper for SportMaxx RT 2
Summary
As a tire expert, I find the Michelin Primacy 4+ to be the clear winner in this comparison. Despite the Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2 being slightly cheaper and offering marginally better aquaplaning resistance, the Michelin excels across more critical aspects. Its superior wet and dry braking performance, exceptional mileage, and lower abrasion make it a standout choice. Additionally, the Primacy 4+ delivers a quieter ride and better fuel efficiency. For those seeking a tire that offers top-notch safety, longevity, and overall performance, the Michelin Primacy 4+ is undoubtedly worth the investment.
Dr Edwin Pang