The Michelin Pilot Sport series has been crucial in not just Michelin’s modern day successes, but also the tyre industry in general.
Michelin embarked on the original Pilot Sport back in 2001, setting the foundations for what was to be Michelin’s most successful
summer tyre models to date.
One model that really elevated the Pilot Sport series is the Pilot Sport 4, a
premium summer tyre launched by Michelin in 2016.
The Pilot Sport 4 S shortly followed in 2017, giving customers a more performance-oriented version of the PS4.
This article will outline the key features of the Pilot Sport 4 and 4S to compare both tyre models and highlight why both the models are two of the most sought after tyres today.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 vs Pilot Sport 4 S: What's the difference?
The biggest difference between the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S is the level of performance they are designed to deliver.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 is a premium performance summer tyre engineered for responsive steering, excellent wet grip and confident everyday driving. It is designed for drivers who want sporty handling without compromising comfort or longevity.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S builds on this formula with even higher levels of dry grip, steering precision and high-speed stability. Developed using Michelin's motorsport expertise, it is aimed at powerful sports cars and supercars, offering exceptional road performance with the capability for occasional track use.
In simple terms:
Choose the Pilot Sport 4 if you want an excellent performance tyre for everyday road driving.
Choose the Pilot Sport 4 S if you drive a high-performance car and want maximum grip and sharper handling.
Pilot Sport 4 Overview
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 has been a flagship tyre model for Michelin since its inception, offering motorists great performance levels on dry roads.
Through Michelin’s Dynamic Response technology, the summer tyre has elevated steering capabilities that makes the tyre more responsive and precise in its handling.
With Michelin’ vast experience within the motorsport industry, the Pilot Sport 4 has heightened longevity with its hybrid aramid and nylon belt on the tread pattern. The tyre tread pattern gives the model more mileage compared to its predecessor.
Many car brands have chosen the PS4 to be an originally equipped (OE) tyre model, with cars such as the
BMW 1 Series and
Ford Fiesta being initially fitted with the Pilot Sport 4 tyres.
Upon its release in 2016, the Pilot Sport 4 replaced the
Pilot Sport 3.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S is a critically acclaimed high-performance summer tyre.
The main difference between the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 and 4 S is that the Pilot Sport 4 S is a more high-performance tyre that targets track use or spirited road driving.
Just like the Pilot Sport 4, the 4 S is equipped with Dynamic Response technology, delivering great longevity and handling responsiveness.
Due to the summer tyre’s Bi-Compound technology, the Pilot Sport 4 S has fantastic grip in both dry and wet conditions. The mix of compound with “functional elastomers” and silica enhances wet grip and braking, with dry grip being improved through a novel hybrid elastomer.
Tyre label ratings are EU regulated rankings of a tyre model’s performance in three main categories. Label ratings may vary between different tyre sizes.
Three main categories for the label ratings are:
Fuel Efficiency – Ranked A to E
Wet Grip – Ranked A to E
Tyre Noise – Ranked with numbers and A to C/Decibels (dB)
Pilot Sport 4 Label Ratings
Pilot Sport 4 fuel efficiency label ratings vary between A and D, with a C rating being the average across tyre sizes.
Wet grip ratings are mostly A across sizes, with some sizes being rated B in wet grip.
Tyre label ratings for the noise ratings are between 70B and 73B.
Pilot Sport 4 S Label Ratings
Fuel efficiency label ratings are either B, C, or D for the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S, with common ratings being C or D.
Wet grip ratings are predominantly A or B for the Pilot Sport 4 S, as well as tyre noise level ratings between 71B and 74B.
Pilot Sport 4 Awards
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 has gathered various awards, accolades, and successful tyre tests since its release in 2016.
In 2020, the ADAC held a comparative tyre test, naming the Pilot Sport 4 the best in ‘Overall Performance.
The Pilot Sport 4 has also shared success with the Pilot Sport 4 S, with both models being named ‘Best Tyres for Hot Hatches’ by DriverReviews in their 2022 annual awards.
Tyre tests have also outlined the model’s capabilities, with the Pilot Sport 4 finishing 1st out of 11 tyre models in the 2022 AutoBild tyre tests, claiming the top prize in the Sports Cars UHP Summer Tyre category.
Pilot Sport 4 S Awards
The Pilot Sport 4 S has also seen many successes in gathering awards and recognitions since 2017.
Highlighting the outstanding performance capabilities of the Michelin model, the Pilot Sport 4 S scooped up back-to-back awards in the 2022 and 2023 DriverReviews Customer Choice Awards. This seen the Pilot Sport 4 S being named ‘Best Tyres for High Performance Cars’, cementing the tyre model as a fantastic option for performance vehicles.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S also triumphed at the 2020 Evo Tyre Test, being presented with the ‘Overall Tyre’ test award.
Both models are heralded by tyre experts, further leading to much success within the tyre industry.
Customer Reviews Comparing Pilot Sport 4 with 4S
Our customer reviews system is powered by
DriverReviews, allowing our customers at
Blackcircles.com to review their previously purchased tyre.
The four main categories our customers review are:
Overall Ratings
Would the customer buy the tyres again
Does the car feel better to drive
Were the tyres value for money
Pilot Sport 4 Customer Reviews
customers have reviewed the Pilot Sport 4 as follows:
Pilot Sport 4 S Customer Reviews
customers have reviewed the Pilot Sport 4 S as follows:
Price Difference Between Michelin Pilot Sport 4 vs Pilot Sport 4S
Prices for both the Pilot Sport 4 and 4 S will vary depending on the size of the tyres.
Fully fitted prices for the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 range from £ to £.
Fully fitted prices for the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S range from £ to £.
Consider the latest Michelin Pilot Sport range
It's also worth noting that Michelin has since introduced the Pilot Sport 5 and Pilot Sport S 5, the latest generations of its performance tyre range.
The
Michelin Pilot Sport 5 succeeds the Pilot Sport 4, introducing improvements in wet grip, longevity and everyday driving performance while maintaining the responsive handling that made the Pilot Sport range so popular.
The
Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 builds on the Pilot Sport 4 S as Michelin's latest flagship ultra-high-performance tyre. It has been developed for the most demanding sports cars, delivering even greater grip, steering precision and road-and-track capability.
If you're buying a new set of Michelin performance tyres today, it's worth comparing these latest models if they're available in the correct size and specification for your vehicle.
Read the full Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Pilot Sport S 5 comparison.
How does Michelin use motorsport technology in its road tyres?
Michelin has decades of experience developing tyres for some of the world's most demanding motorsport championships. Technologies refined under extreme racing conditions help influence the design of Michelin's road tyres, improving grip, steering precision, durability and braking performance.
Today, Michelin tyres are trusted as original equipment by leading manufacturers including Porsche, Ferrari, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG, Audi, Tesla, McLaren, Aston Martin and Bentley, reflecting the brand's reputation for engineering excellence and innovation.
Should you buy the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 or Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S?
Both tyres remain outstanding Michelin performance tyres, but they are designed for different drivers.
Choose the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 if you want a premium performance tyre that delivers excellent everyday handling, wet grip and comfort.
Choose the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S if you own a high-performance vehicle and want Michelin's flagship ultra-high-performance road tyre, offering exceptional dry grip, sharper steering response and greater confidence during enthusiastic driving.
If you're buying new tyres today, it's also worth considering Michelin's latest Pilot Sport range. The Pilot Sport 5 succeeds the Pilot Sport 4 with improvements in wet grip, longevity and driving precision, making it the recommended choice for most everyday performance cars.
Are Michelin tyres worth it?
Yes. Michelin tyres are widely regarded as being worth the investment thanks to their combination of long-lasting safety, premium performance and durability.
Michelin designs its tyres to deliver consistent performance throughout their lifespan, helping drivers benefit from strong wet braking, reliable grip and long tread life. The company also transfers technology developed through its motorsport programmes into its road tyres, bringing race-inspired innovation to everyday driving.
There are several reasons why Michelin is considered one of the world's leading premium tyre manufacturers:
Long-lasting safety – Michelin tyres are designed to maintain high levels of safety throughout their usable life.
Rigorous quality standards – Fewer than 0.01% of Michelin tyres are returned, reflecting the brand's high manufacturing standards.
The most 5-star consumer ratings – Michelin has an average customer rating of 4.7/5 from nearly 128,000 consumer reviews.
The most awarded tyre brand – Michelin is the most awarded tyre brand in European independent tyre tests.
Trusted by premium vehicle manufacturers – Michelin tyres are chosen as original equipment by many of the world's leading car brands.
Race-inspired technology – Michelin uses knowledge gained through decades of motorsport to help develop technologies for its road tyres.
Tyres designed to last longer – Michelin states its tyres wear up to 27% slower than many competing premium brands, helping drivers get more miles from each set while reducing waste.
Although Michelin tyres typically cost more than many mid-range or budget alternatives, their combination of safety, performance, longevity and innovation means they often provide better long-term value.
Whether you're choosing an all-season, summer or winter tyre, Michelin remains one of the most trusted premium tyre brands for drivers looking for dependable performance in everyday driving.
Where can I buy Michelin Pilot Sport 4 or Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S?
You can buy both the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S directly from Blackcircles.com.
Simply enter your vehicle registration or tyre size to compare available options, view fully fitted prices and book fitting at one of thousands of trusted local garages across the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S better than the Pilot Sport 4?
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S is designed to deliver a higher level of performance than the Pilot Sport 4. It offers greater dry grip, sharper steering response and increased high-speed stability, making it the preferred choice for powerful sports cars and drivers who enjoy more enthusiastic driving. The Pilot Sport 4 remains an excellent option for everyday performance driving.
Can I use Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres every day?
Yes. Although the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S is capable of occasional track use, it has been developed primarily as a premium road tyre. It provides excellent everyday comfort and wet weather performance while delivering exceptional levels of grip and steering precision.
Which tyre offers better dry grip?
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S delivers higher levels of dry grip than the Pilot Sport 4. Its motorsport-inspired construction and compound technology are designed to maximise cornering performance and braking on dry roads.
Which tyre performs better in wet weather?
Both tyres offer excellent wet weather performance. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S combines exceptional wet grip with its higher performance capability, while the Pilot Sport 4 provides excellent wet braking and handling for everyday road driving.
Which Michelin tyre is likely to last longer?
Both tyres are engineered for long-lasting performance. The Pilot Sport 4 has been designed to balance performance with everyday durability, while the Pilot Sport 4 S delivers impressive longevity considering its ultra-high-performance focus. Actual tyre life depends on driving style, vehicle type, road conditions and regular maintenance.
Is the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S suitable for track days?
Yes. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S is well suited to enthusiastic road driving and occasional track days. It has been developed using Michelin's motorsport expertise to provide exceptional grip, steering precision and high-speed stability without compromising everyday usability.
Which tyre is quieter: Michelin Pilot Sport 4 or Pilot Sport 4 S?
Both tyres are designed to deliver a refined driving experience, although the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 generally offers slightly greater ride comfort for everyday driving. Noise levels vary depending on tyre size, vehicle and fitment, so always check the EU tyre label for your chosen specification.
Is the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 still worth buying?
Yes. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 remains an excellent premium performance tyre. However, drivers purchasing new tyres today should also consider the newer Michelin Pilot Sport 5, which builds on the Pilot Sport 4 with improvements in wet grip, longevity and overall driving performance.
Is the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S still worth buying?
Yes. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S continues to be one of the benchmark ultra-high-performance road tyres. However, Michelin has now introduced the Pilot Sport S 5, the latest generation of its flagship supersport tyre. Drivers buying new tyres today should consider the Pilot Sport S 5 where it is available in the correct size and fitment, as it builds on the Pilot Sport 4 S with further improvements in handling, grip and road-and-track capability.
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