Michelin Primacy 4+ vs Maxxis Victra Sport VS5 SUV: In this SUV battle, we’re pitting two formidable contenders against each other: the Michelin Primacy 4+, a tire from the touring segment that overlaps into the SUV category, launched in 2022, and the Maxxis Victra Sport VS5 SUV, a UHP SUV tire that made its debut in 2020. The stage is set for an epic showdown as the refined performance of the Primacy 4+ faces off against the aggressive prowess of the Victra Sport VS5 SUV. Buckle up as these two titans clash in a battle for SUV supremacy!
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Results: Michelin Primacy 4+ vs Maxxis Victra Sport VS5 SUV
Results below were taken from the 2024 Auto Motor und Sport SUV independent Tire Test which includes 8 top tires in the market. The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Primacy 4+ vs Maxxis Victra Sport VS5 SUV based on the relevant performance category. The Michelin Primacy 4+ 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 a 235/55R18 which is a common tire size for Audi Q3 & Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle of choice is a SEAT Tarraco.
Wet
In wet braking, the Michelin Primacy 4+ and Maxxis Victra Sport VS5 SUV are nearly identical, with only a 0.1-meter difference separating them. However, in wet handling, the Victra Sport VS5 SUV edges ahead, managing a speed of 74.2 km/h compared to the Primacy 4+’s 73.1 km/h. The most striking difference is in straight-line aquaplaning resistance, where the Victra Sport VS5 SUV significantly outperforms the Primacy 4+, reaching a speed of 77.2 km/h versus 68.6 km/h. The surprisingly close results show the Victra Sport VS5 SUV taking the lead in wet performance.
Victra Sport VS5 SUV :
- ~0% in wet braking
- +2% in wet handling (average speed)
- +13% in straight aquaplaning
Dry
In dry braking, the Michelin Primacy 4+ regains the upper hand, stopping 0.6 meters shorter than the Maxxis Victra Sport VS5 SUV. However, in dry handling, the Victra Sport VS5 SUV still manages to outpace the Primacy 4+, achieving an average lap speed of 93.5 km/h compared to 92.6 km/h. Despite the Maxxis leading in handling, the Michelin took back some ground in braking performance.
Victra Sport VS5 SUV :
- -2% in dry braking
- +1% in dry handling (average speed)
Noise
In terms of exterior noise, the Michelin Primacy 4+ proves to be quieter, producing 70.5 dB compared to the Maxxis Victra Sport VS5 SUV’s 71.4 dB. The difference of 0.9 dB makes the Primacy 4+ the more silent option on the road.
Victra Sport VS5 SUV :
- -1% in exterior noise (+0.9 dB)
Rolling Resistance
In rolling resistance, the Michelin Primacy 4+ demonstrates its technical superiority with a lower resistance of 6.6 N/kN compared to the Maxxis Victra Sport VS5 SUV’s 9.1 N/kN. This significant difference highlights Michelin’s ability to balance the challenging conflict between maintaining high wet braking performance and achieving low rolling resistance, keeping both at an impressive level.
Victra Sport VS5 SUV :
- -27% in rolling resistance
Price
When comparing prices for the 235/55R18 size, the Maxxis Victra Sport VS5 SUV is significantly cheaper at €124, which is 30% less than the Michelin Primacy 4+, priced at €161. This makes the Victra Sport VS5 SUV the more budget-friendly option.
Tire size: 235/55R18
- Primacy 4+ : € 161
- Victra Sport VS5 SUV : € 124
Difference: -30% more cheaper for Victra Sport VS5 SUV.
Summary
As a tire expert, I appreciate the strengths of both the Michelin Primacy 4+ and the Maxxis Victra Sport VS5 SUV. The Primacy 4+ excels in delivering lower rolling resistance and quieter performance, showcasing Michelin’s advanced technical capabilities in balancing wet braking and fuel efficiency. On the other hand, the Victra Sport VS5 SUV impresses with its superior wet handling and aquaplaning resistance, while offering a compelling price advantage. Both tires bring their unique benefits to the table, making them strong contenders depending on your driving priorities.
Dr Edwin Pang