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Bridgestone Potenza Sport vs Michelin Pilot Sport 5
As the two
largest tyre manufacturers in the world,
Bridgestone and
Michelin have earned widespread recognition for their long-standing contributions to tyre innovation and performance.
Both brands are particularly well known for their flagship performance
tyre families – including Bridgestone’s Potenza range and Michelin’s Pilot Sport series – which have become go-to choices for drivers seeking sporty handling, control and confidence at speed.
In this article, we’ll be comparing the Bridgestone Potenza Sport and Michelin Pilot Sport 5, two extremely popular models from these sought-after ranges.
Potenza Sport Overview
The
Bridgestone Potenza Sport is an ultra-high performance (UHP)
summer tyre developed to deliver exceptional control and stability at higher speeds.
Featuring an asymmetric tread pattern, reinforced internal structure and advanced compound technology, the Potenza Sport is designed to provide precise steering response alongside strong cornering stability.
Its tread design focuses on maintaining reliable grip and braking performance in both wet and dry conditions, while efficiently dispersing surface water to help reduce the risk of aquaplaning.
Engineered to meet the demands of modern performance vehicles, the Potenza Sport has been selected as Original Equipment (OE) by leading manufacturers such as
Audi and
BMW.
Positioned as Bridgestone’s next-generation performance tyre, the Potenza Sport replaced the
Potenza S001.
Pilot Sport 5 Overview
The
Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is a
premium high-performance summer tyre designed to deliver a balance of sporty handling, long-lasting grip and refined road feel.
At its core is Michelin’s MaxTouch Construction, which helps evenly distribute the forces of acceleration, braking and cornering.
The Pilot Sport 5 also features Michelin’s Dual Sport Tread Design, with a functional split between the inner and outer tread zones.
Large longitudinal grooves on the inner section enhance water evacuation for confident wet braking, while the rigid outer blocks maximise grip and control on dry roads.
The Pilot Sport 5 replaced the
Pilot Sport 4 upon its 2022 release.
Tyre Label Ratings
EU tyre label ratings provide a helpful overview of how a tyre performs across key safety and efficiency measures.
These ratings are regulated under EU legislation and may vary depending on tyre size or specific manufacturer fitments.
The categories assessed include:
- Fuel Efficiency – Ranked from A to E
- Wet Grip – Ranked from A to E
- Tyre Noise – Digit measured in decibels (dBs) alongside an A, B, or C rating
Potenza Sport Label Ratings
- Fuel Efficiency: A or B (with 1 SKU having a C rating)
- Wet Grip: A or B
- Tyre Noise: 68A – 71B
Pilot Sport 5 Label Ratings
- Fuel Efficiency: A – C
- Wet Grip: A or B
- Tyre Noise: 72B (with 1 SKU having a 75B rating)
Potenza Sport Awards & Recognition
Since its launch, the Bridgestone Potenza Sport has established itself as one of the leading ultra-high performance tyres on the market.
Its consistent results in independent European tyre tests underline its strengths in braking performance, handling precision and overall driving engagement in both wet and dry conditions.
- Auto Express 2022 Summer Tyre Test: Winner
- Auto Zeitung 2023 Summer Tyre Test: Winner
- Evo 2025 Performance Tyre Test: Winner
Pilot Sport 5 Awards & Recognition
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 has also received strong recognition since its release, particularly for its balanced approach to performance, longevity and everyday usability.
Independent testing and customer-focused awards highlight its ability to deliver confident handling and grip while remaining well suited to sporty road cars and hot hatches.
- Tyre Reviews 2022 Ultra-High-Performance Tyre Test: Winner
- DriverReviews Customer Choice Awards 2024, Best Tyres for Hot Hatches: Winner
- Auto Bild 2025 Summer Performance Tyre Test: Winner
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews on Blackcircles.com are collected through DriverReviews, giving drivers the opportunity to share real-world feedback on tyres they’ve purchased and driven on.
Reviews are based on the following categories:
- Overall ratings
- Would the customer buy the tyres again
- Does the car feel better to drive
- Were the tyres value for money
Potenza Sport Customer Reviews
customers have reviewed the Potenza Sport as follows:
Pilot Sport 5 Customer Reviews
customers have reviewed the Pilot Sport 5 as follows:
Potenza Sport Common Tyre Sizes
Pilot Sport 5 Common Tyre Sizes
- 225/40 R18
- 235/35 R19
- 245/35 R18
Potenza Sport Common Car Models
Pilot Sport 5 Common Car Models
- BMW 1 Series
- BMW 3 Series
- Volkswagen Golf GTI
Price Ranges
Prices for tyre models can vary depending on tyre size, load rating and any specialised manufacturer fitments.
Fully fitted prices for the Bridgestone Potenza Sport range from £ to £ .
Fully fitted prices for the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 range from £ to £ .