Michelin Primacy 4 vs Nokian Hakka Blue 3: Introducing the showdown between two premium tires: the Michelin Primacy 4 and the Nokian Hakka Blue 3. Launched in 2017, the Michelin Primacy 4 has earned a reputation for exceptional durability and outstanding performance across various conditions. On the other side, the Nokian Hakka Blue 3, released in 2021, follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Hakka Blue 2, renowned for its remarkable wet grip. The burning question is: can the Hakka Blue 3 elevate its performance to surpass even the stellar standards set by the Hakka Blue 2? Get ready for an epic duel as we delve into the capabilities of these two titans of the road!
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Results: Michelin Primacy 4 vs Nokian Hakka Blue 3
Results below were taken from 2022 ViBilagare Tire Test with a total of 10 tires tested, The graph below shows the comparison between Michelin Primacy 4 vs Nokian Hakka Blue 3 based on the relevant performance category. Michelin Primacy 4 was set as a reference hence at the 100% mark.
Note that for both wet & dry handling evaluation, the standard lap time was used as a evaluation metric. The tire size of interest is a 205/55R16 which is a common tire size for Volvo V40 & Toyota Corolla Altis. You can check out our latest tire size table for more information. The testing vehicle is a Volkswagen Golf.
Wet
In wet performance, the Nokian Hakka Blue 3 continues to maintain its edge, much like its predecessor, the Hakka Blue 2. When comparing wet braking, the Nokian Hakka Blue 3 stops in 28.6 meters from 100 to 0 km/h, outperforming the Michelin Primacy 4 by 2.7 meters, which stops in 31.3 meters. In wet handling, the Hakka Blue 3 completes a lap in 67.9 seconds, faster than the Primacy 4’s 69.1 seconds.
The wet circle test shows the Hakka Blue 3 with a 20.6-second time, slightly quicker than the Primacy 4’s 21 seconds. However, the Primacy 4 excels in straight aquaplaning, with a maximum slipping speed of 84.9 km/h, surpassing the Hakka Blue 3’s 81.8 km/h. In curved aquaplaning, the Primacy 4 achieves a maximum lateral acceleration of 68.9 m/sec², marginally better than the Hakka Blue 3’s 67.3 m/sec².
Hakka Blue 3 :
- +9% in wet braking
- +2% in wet handling (average speed)
- +2% in wet circle
- -4% in straight aquaplaning
- -2% in curved aquaplaning
Dry
In dry performance, the Michelin Primacy 4 and the Nokian Hakka Blue 3 are closely matched. For dry braking from 100 to 5 km/h, the Nokian Hakka Blue 3 stops slightly sooner at 35.1 meters, just 0.2 meters shorter than the Primacy 4’s 35.3 meters. In dry handling, the Primacy 4 edges out with a lap time of 107.8 seconds, slightly faster than the Hakka Blue 3’s 108.3 seconds.
Hakka Blue 3 :
- +1% in dry braking
- ~0% in dry handling (lap time)
Rolling Resistance
In terms of rolling resistance, the Michelin Primacy 4 outperforms the Nokian Hakka Blue 3, with a lower resistance of 7.87 N/kN compared to the Hakka Blue 3’s 8.23 N/kN. This difference in rolling resistance translates to better fuel efficiency for the Primacy 4, which consumes 5.29 liters per 100 kilometers, while the Hakka Blue 3 uses 5.49 liters per 100 kilometers.
Hakka Blue 3 :
- -4% in rolling resistance
- -4% in fuel consumption
Price
In terms of pricing for the 205/55R16 tire size, the Michelin Primacy 4 costs €111, while the Nokian Hakka Blue 3 is priced at €161. This makes the Hakka Blue 3 approximately 31% more expensive than the Primacy 4.
Tire size: 205/55R16
- Primacy 4 : € 111
- Hakka Blue 3 : € 161
Difference: +31% more expensive for Hakka Blue 3.
Summary
As a tire expert, I can confidently say that both the Michelin Primacy 4 and the Nokian Hakka Blue 3 have their distinct advantages. The Michelin Primacy 4 excels in rolling resistance and fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for drivers looking to save on fuel costs while enjoying reliable performance in dry conditions.
On the other hand, the Nokian Hakka Blue 3 shines in wet performance, with superior wet braking and handling capabilities, continuing the legacy of its predecessor, the Hakka Blue 2. Although the Hakka Blue 3 comes at a higher price, its exceptional wet performance justifies the cost for those prioritizing safety in wet conditions.
Dr Edwin Pang