The Michelin Pilot Sport range has been a long-standing favourite with motorists for a number of years.
As the name suggests, the origins for the tyre series can be found in Michelin’s motorsport heritage.
The first-ever Pilot Sport tyre was a total game-changer. It was made for sports cars and high-speed cars, giving them amazing control, grip, and the ability to perform like never before.
Over the years there have been many iterations of these
car tyres. With the two most recent offerings from Michelin being the Pilot Sport 5 and the Pilot Sport S 5.
In this article we are going to attempt to give you an overview of the two
tyres, helping you to better understand what the difference between the Pilot Sport 5 and Pilot Sport S 5 tyres are.
Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Pilot Sport S 5: What's the difference?
The biggest difference between the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 and Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 is the level of performance they are designed to deliver.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is Michelin's latest premium performance road tyre. It has been engineered to provide responsive handling, excellent wet braking and long-lasting performance for enthusiastic everyday driving.
The Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 sits above it as Michelin's flagship ultra-high-performance summer tyre. Developed using Michelin's motorsport expertise and co-designed with leading sports car manufacturers, it delivers even greater grip, sharper steering precision and exceptional performance on both road and occasional track use.
In simple terms:
Choose the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 if you want an exceptional performance tyre for everyday road driving.
Choose the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 if you own a high-performance sports car and want Michelin's highest level of road performance.
Michelin Pilot Sport 5 Overview
The
Michelin Pilot Sport 5, brings together everything Michelin has learned from the previous model, the Pilot Sport 4.
Their focus for the Pilot Sport 5 was in taking tyre durability and versatility to new heights - without dropping the high-performance.
With better tread patterns and compound tech, it gives drivers the best mix of lasting quality, comfort, and top-notch handling.
At present the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tyres have a consistent rating of C in the Fuel Efficiency rating. The only exception being in the size
275/45 R20 – which is rated B.
As for Wet Grip, all the Pilot Sport 5 tyres within the catalogue currently score an A rating across all the different tyre sizes.
The model is very consistent. With many sizes being graded with a 72B for Tyre Noise levels. The only difference being for the
285/40 R19 size which has a noise level of 75B.
Pilot Sport S 5 Label Ratings
At present the Pilot Sport S 5 comes in just two sizes. The scores of these sizes are almost identical.
With the Fuel Rating scored B and the Wet Grip also graded B.
It is only in the Noise Levels that they differ. For 275/35 R1 the decibel score is 73B, whilst for 325/30 R21 the rating
How does Michelin use motorsport to develop the Pilot Sport range?
Michelin applies knowledge gained from decades of motorsport competition to the development of its road tyres. Technologies designed to improve steering precision, grip and durability are adapted for everyday driving, helping drivers benefit from
race-inspired engineering.
The Pilot Sport family reflects this philosophy, with the Pilot Sport 5 delivering outstanding road performance, while the Pilot Sport S 5 pushes performance even further for the world's most demanding sports cars.
Pilot Sport 5 Awards
The Pilot Sport 5 has received several awards within the tyre and automatic industry over the past 2 years.
In the 2024 DriverReviews customer choice awards, the Pilot Sport 5 was named as “Highly Recommended” in the ‘Best Tyres for Hot Hatches’ category.
It was also given the “Commended” accolade in the ‘Best Tyres for Large Family Cars’ category.
Shortly after it was first released in 2021, the Pilot Sport 5 received the prestigious ‘Contemporary Good Design’ award from the Red Dot Awards.
Pilot Sport S 5 Awards
Launched in October 2023 – the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 has yet to have been submitted for any of the annual tyre tests.
At this time of writing, it means that there are no awards accredited to the tyre model.
Of course, as and when this changes, we will look to update this page to detail any new awards.
Pilot Sport 5 Customer Reviews
customers have reviewed the Pilot Sport 5 as follows:
Pilot Sport S 5 Customer Reviews
customers have reviewed the Pilot Sport S 5 as follows:
Price Difference Between Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Pilot Sport S5
Prices for tyre models will typically vary between different tyre sizes.
Fully fitted prices for the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 range from £ to £.
Fully fitted prices for the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 range from £ to £.
Should you buy the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 or Pilot Sport S 5?
Both tyres represent Michelin's latest performance technology, but they are designed for different types of drivers.
Choose the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 if you want a premium summer tyre that combines responsive handling, excellent wet grip and long-lasting performance for everyday driving.
Choose the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 if you drive a high-performance sports car and want Michelin's flagship road and track tyre, offering even greater grip, sharper steering response and maximum performance.
Neither tyre is universally better than the other—the right choice depends on your vehicle and how you drive. For most motorists, the Pilot Sport 5 offers the best balance of performance, comfort and longevity. Drivers seeking the highest levels of performance from powerful sports cars will benefit most from the Pilot Sport S 5.
Where can I buy Michelin Pilot Sport 5 or Pilot Sport S 5?
You can buy both the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 and Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 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 S 5 suitable for everyday driving?
Yes. Although the Pilot Sport S 5 has been developed for high-performance sports cars and occasional track use, it is fully road legal and designed to provide excellent everyday drivability alongside exceptional performance.
Can I use the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 on a track day?
The Pilot Sport 5 is designed primarily as a road tyre but is suitable for occasional track use. Drivers who regularly attend track days may benefit more from the Pilot Sport S 5, which has been developed with greater track capability in mind.
Which tyre is better for electric vehicles?
Both tyres are available in sizes suitable for electric vehicles. The right choice depends on whether your priority is everyday performance (Pilot Sport 5) or maximum performance for high-powered EVs (Pilot Sport S 5).
Are Michelin Pilot Sport tyres fitted as original equipment?
Yes. Michelin Pilot Sport tyres are fitted as original equipment by many leading manufacturers, including Porsche, Ferrari, Mercedes-AMG, BMW, Tesla and Chevrolet, reflecting Michelin’s reputation for premium performance.
Do Michelin Pilot Sport tyres provide long tread life?
Michelin designs both tyres to maintain performance throughout their lifespan. The Pilot Sport 5 places a particular emphasis on longevity for everyday road use, while the Pilot Sport S 5 balances durability with maximum performance.
Can I replace only two Michelin Pilot Sport tyres?
For the best handling and safety, Michelin generally recommends fitting the same tyre model and specification across an axle. If you’re unsure, follow your vehicle manufacturer’s guidance.
Are both tyres suitable for wet weather?
Yes. Both tyres are engineered to deliver strong wet-weather grip and braking performance, although the Pilot Sport S 5 also maintains the high levels of dry grip expected from Michelin’s flagship performance tyre.
Which tyre offers the more comfortable ride?
The Pilot Sport 5 is generally the better choice for everyday comfort, while the Pilot Sport S 5 prioritises maximum steering precision and performance for sports cars.
How do I choose the correct Michelin Pilot Sport tyre size?
Always follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tyre size and load/speed ratings. You can also enter your vehicle registration on Blackcircles.com to view compatible Michelin tyres.
Are Michelin Pilot Sport tyres worth the investment?
Many drivers choose Michelin Pilot Sport tyres for their combination of grip, handling, durability and premium engineering. The best choice depends on whether your priority is balanced everyday performance or the highest level of ultra-high-performance driving.
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