Michelin Primacy 5 vs Pirelli Cinturato C3: It’s a clash of fresh contenders in the summer touring segment! The Michelin Primacy 5, already proven against top-tier rivals across Europe, returns with a legacy of balanced comfort, grip, and longevity. But entering the ring is the all-new Pirelli Cinturato C3 — and it’s not here to play. Having just scored a big win in its very first comparison test, the C3 is already shaking things up. Two giants, both with something to prove — this is one summer tire battle you don’t want to miss!
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Results: Michelin Primacy 5 vs Pirelli Cinturato C3
The results presented here are from the Al Volante 2025 Summer Tire Test, where 7 of the best summer tire models were selected. The accompanying graph provides a side-by-side comparison of the Michelin Primacy 5 vs Pirelli Cinturato C3 across various performance categories, with the Michelin Primacy 5 serving as the benchmark at 100%.
The tire size of interest is the 225/55R18 tire size, a popular choice for vehicles like the Kia Sportage & Subaru Forester. For further insights into various tire sizes, feel free to consult our latest tire size table.
Wet
In wet braking, the Pirelli Cinturato C3 stops 0.2 meters shorter than the Michelin Primacy 5 — a minimal advantage of 1% in stopping distance. Moving to wet handling, the Cinturato C3 completes the lap 2.16 seconds faster than the Primacy 5, translating to a 2% improvement in handling speed. Finally, in straight-line aquaplaning, the C3 begins to lose contact with the road at 81.6 km/h, just 0.4 km/h faster than the Primacy 5 — a difference close to 0%.
Despite the close numbers, the Pirelli edges ahead slightly in all three wet categories, showing promising wet-weather control in its second major test.
Cinturato C3 :
- +1% in wet braking
- +2% in wet handling
- ~0% in aquaplaning
Dry
In dry braking, the Pirelli Cinturato C3 stops 1.3 meters shorter than the Michelin Primacy 5, giving it a 3% advantage in stopping distance. This further reinforces the C3’s strong start, showing impressive grip under pressure even in dry conditions.
Cinturato C3 :
- +4% in dry braking
Wear
While mileage wasn’t directly tested in this comparison, we’re referencing data from prior tests. The Pirelli Cinturato P7 C2 previously achieved 24,900 km, while the Michelin Primacy 4+ lasted 38,950 km. The new Michelin Primacy 5 claims a 22% improvement over the Primacy 4+, putting its estimated lifespan at 47,519 km. Meanwhile, the new Pirelli Cinturato C3 shows clear progress too, with an estimated mileage of 29,880 km — a 20% improvement over the P7 C2.
Based on these figures, the Primacy 5 outlasts the Cinturato C3 by 17,639 km, giving it a 59% advantage in projected tread life.
Cinturato C3 :
- -59% in mileage (estimated)
Noise
In terms of exterior noise, the Michelin Primacy 5 is 1.2 dB quieter than the Pirelli Cinturato C3, offering a 2% reduction in road noise. This makes the Primacy 5 the more refined option for drivers seeking a quieter ride.
Cinturato C3 :
- -2% in exterior noise (+1.2 dB)
Rolling Resistance
In rolling resistance, the Michelin Primacy 5 performs better with a resistance of 7 N/kN compared to the Pirelli Cinturato C3’s 7.4 N/kN. This gives the Primacy 5 a 6% advantage in energy efficiency, making it the more fuel-efficient option between the two.
Cinturato C3 :
- -5% in rolling resistance
Price
For tire size 225/55R18, the Pirelli Cinturato C3 is priced at €155, while the Michelin Primacy 5 costs €172. This makes the Cinturato C3 11% cheaper than the Primacy 5.
Tire size: 225/55R18
- Primacy 5 : € 172
- Cinturato C3 : € 155
Difference: -11% more cheaper for Cinturato C3
Summary
As a tire expert, I see strong merits on both sides. The Michelin Primacy 5 stands out with its superior refinement, lower rolling resistance, and impressive projected mileage — making it a top pick for drivers focused on long-term value and comfort. On the other hand, the Pirelli Cinturato C3 is a compelling new entry with excellent wet and dry grip, strong braking performance, and a competitive price point. It’s also a clear step up from its predecessor, the P7 C2. If you’re after dynamic performance on a budget, the C3 punches well above its price. But if you value durability and fuel efficiency, the Primacy 5 remains hard to beat.
Dr Edwin Pang