Michelin are an industry-leading tyre manufacturer that was founded in 1889.
The French brand has remained a frontrunner by pairing a legacy of innovation with a consistently strong range of high-performance models.
Michelin’s expertise within the tyre industry hasn’t gone unnoticed either, with various products earning many tyre test wins, awards, and recognitions over the years.
Notable examples from Michelin’s current range include the Pilot Sport 5 and Pilot Super Sport, two premium summer tyres that focus on high performance and durability.
Today, we will go over the key features of both tyres and so you can understand what tyre is right for you.
Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Pilot Super Sport: What's the difference?
The biggest difference between the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 and Michelin Pilot Super Sport is that the Pilot Sport 5 is Michelin's latest generation premium performance road tyre, while the Pilot Super Sport is an older ultra-high-performance tyre originally developed for powerful sports cars.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 has been engineered to deliver excellent wet grip, precise steering response and long-lasting performance for enthusiastic everyday driving. It incorporates Michelin's latest technologies, including Dynamic Response Technology and MaxTouch Construction, helping improve handling, braking and tyre longevity.
The Michelin Pilot Super Sport remains a highly capable ultra-high-performance summer tyre, particularly for drivers maintaining the original equipment fitment on older sports cars.
However, it was developed using an earlier generation of Michelin performance technology. The Pilot Sport 5S is now available that might be a better option depending on your needs.
In simple terms:
Choose the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 if you want Michelin's latest performance road tyre.
Choose the Michelin Pilot Super Sport if you're replacing the original equipment tyres on an older performance vehicle.
Pilot Sport 5 Overview
The Pilot Sport 5 is a premium tyre model released globally in 2022.
Michelin’s flagship summer tyre is equipped with Dynamic Response Technology, ensuring maximum levels of steering reactivity and driving precision.
This summer tyre boasts a Dual Sport Tread Design with an inner tread that features large longitudinal grooves, enhancing performance in both wet and dry braking conditions.
In addition to its tread design, Michelin has endowed the Pilot Sport 5 with their Premium Velvet Touch Sidewall design, giving the tyre a sleek and stylish appearance.
The Pilot Sport model has been selected as an original equipment (OE) tyre for various car models, including the Volkswagen Polo.
Upon its release, the Pilot Sport 5 replaced the Michelin Pilot Sport 4.
The
Pilot Super Sport is an ultra-high performance tyre manufactured by Michelin since 2011.
A tyre model that is suited towards spirited road driving, the Pilot Super Sport offers outstanding handling and strong levels of traction.
Grip in dry conditions is enhanced through the tyre being constructed with Michelin’s Bi-Compound technology.
Michelin’s Variable Contact Patch 2.0 technology ensures even pressure distribution on the Pilot Super Sport, improving both its longevity and performance.
For stable and reliable performance, Michelin has incorporated a Twaron belt into the tyre's construction. This design provides variable grip levels, evenly distributing tension and grip forces across the tyre's surface.
The Pilot Super Sport would eventually be replaced by the
Pilot Sport 4 S in 2017.
Tyre label ratings are an EU-regulated ranking system that indicates tyre performance levels of three main categories. Label ratings may vary between different tyre sizes.
The main categories are as follows:
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 5 Label Ratings
Fuel Efficiency: B - C
Wet Grip: A
Noise Levels: 72 dB - 75 dB
Pilot Super Sport Label Ratings
Fuel Efficiency: C - D
Wet Grip: A - B
Noise Levels: 71 dB - 74 dB
Customer Reviews Comparing Pilot Sport 5 vs Super Sport
Powered by DriverReviews, our customers at Blackcircles.com can review their previously purchased tyre model.
The categories in which our customers review their tyres are:
Overall
Would the customer buy the tyres again
Does the car feel better to drive
Were the tyres value for money
Pilot Sport 5 Customer Reviews
customers have reviewed the Pilot Sport 5 as follows:
Pilot Super Sport Customer Reviews
customers have reviewed the Pilot Super Sport as follows:
Today, Michelin tyres are fitted as original equipment on brands including Porsche, Ferrari, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-AMG, Audi, Tesla, McLaren, Aston Martin and Bentley, reflecting the company's reputation for premium engineering and innovation.
Price Difference Between Pilot Sport 5 vs Pilot Super Sport
Prices for tyre ranges will typically differ between different sizes and specialised car manufacturer fitments.
Fully fitted prices for the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 range from £
to £
.
Fully fitted prices for the Michelin Pilot Super Sport range from £
to £
Should you buy the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 or Pilot Super Sport?
Both tyres are excellent Michelin performance tyres, but the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is the recommended choice for most drivers.
As Michelin's latest premium performance road tyre, the Pilot Sport 5 builds on previous generations with improvements in wet grip, steering precision and tread life, making it an excellent choice for everyday performance driving.
The Michelin Pilot Super Sport remains a capable ultra-high-performance tyre, particularly for owners wishing to retain the original equipment specification on older performance cars.
However, if you're buying a new set of Michelin tyres today, the Pilot Sport 5 represents the more modern choice thanks to its latest technology and balanced all-round performance.
If you own a high-performance sports car and are looking for even greater levels of grip and handling than the Pilot Sport 5 offers, it's also worth considering the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5.
As Michelin's latest flagship ultra-high-performance tyre, it builds on the performance of previous Michelin flagship tyres with enhanced steering precision, exceptional dry and wet grip, and road-and-track capability for the most demanding drivers.
Where can I buy Michelin Pilot Sport 5 or Pilot Super Sport?
You can buy both the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 and, where available, the Michelin Pilot Super Sport 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 Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 has been developed as the brand’s flagship ultra-high-performance summer tyre, it is designed for both road and occasional track use. Drivers can expect excellent grip, responsive steering and confident braking during everyday driving, while also benefiting from the extra performance available when driving more enthusiastically. If your vehicle is a high-performance sports car and the tyre is available in the correct specification, the Pilot Sport S 5 is designed to deliver exceptional performance without sacrificing everyday usability.
Can I use the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 for occasional track days?
Yes. The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is capable of handling occasional track sessions while remaining primarily focused on everyday road driving. It provides excellent steering response, predictable handling and strong grip in both dry and wet conditions. However, if you regularly attend track days or own a high-performance sports car, the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 is likely to be the better option, as it has been developed to deliver higher levels of grip and precision during more demanding driving.
Are Michelin Pilot Sport tyres fitted as original equipment?
Yes. Michelin Pilot Sport tyres are fitted as original equipment by many of the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers. Brands including Porsche, Ferrari, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, McLaren and Tesla choose Michelin tyres because of their combination of performance, safety and durability. Original equipment fitment demonstrates the confidence manufacturers place in Michelin’s engineering and its ability to complement the handling characteristics of premium vehicles.
Which Michelin Pilot Sport tyre is best for electric vehicles?
Both the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 and Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 are available in sizes suitable for certain electric vehicles. The best choice depends on your priorities. The Pilot Sport 5 offers an excellent balance of everyday performance, comfort and longevity, making it suitable for many performance EVs. Drivers of more powerful electric sports cars who want the highest levels of grip and steering precision may benefit from the Pilot Sport S 5, provided it is available in the correct specification for their vehicle.
Can I replace just two Michelin Pilot Sport tyres instead of all four?
In many cases, yes. If your existing tyres are still in good condition and meet the legal tread depth requirements, replacing tyres in matching pairs across the same axle is generally recommended. It’s also important to ensure the replacement tyres match your vehicle manufacturer’s approved size, load index and speed rating. If you’re changing between different Michelin Pilot Sport models, it’s worth seeking professional advice to ensure the tyres remain suitable for your vehicle and driving style.
How long do Michelin Pilot Sport tyres typically last?
Tyre lifespan depends on factors such as driving style, vehicle type, road conditions and maintenance. Michelin designs its Pilot Sport range to maintain strong performance throughout the tyre’s usable life, helping drivers benefit from consistent grip and handling as the tyres wear. Regular tyre pressure checks, wheel alignment and tyre rotation where appropriate can all help maximise tread life and ensure even wear.
Are Michelin Pilot Sport tyres suitable for motorway driving?
Yes. Both the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 and Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 are designed to provide excellent stability, comfort and braking performance at motorway speeds. Their tread designs help maintain grip in both dry and wet conditions, making them suitable for everything from daily commuting to long-distance journeys. The Pilot Sport 5 places greater emphasis on everyday comfort, while the Pilot Sport S 5 delivers additional steering precision for performance-focused drivers.
What makes Michelin Pilot Sport tyres different from other performance tyres?
Michelin develops the Pilot Sport range using technology inspired by decades of motorsport experience. Features such as Dynamic Response Technology and advanced tread compounds are designed to improve steering precision, braking performance and grip while maintaining long-lasting durability. Combined with Michelin’s reputation for quality and original equipment partnerships with many premium vehicle manufacturers, the Pilot Sport range has become one of the benchmark choices for drivers looking for premium performance tyres.
Do Michelin Pilot Sport tyres perform well in wet weather?
Yes. Wet-weather performance is one of the strengths of the Michelin Pilot Sport range. Advanced tread patterns and compound technology help disperse water efficiently, reducing the risk of aquaplaning while maintaining strong braking and cornering performance. Although both tyres perform well in wet conditions, drivers should always adjust their speed and driving style to suit the weather and road conditions.
How do I choose the right Michelin Pilot Sport tyre for my car?
The best tyre depends on your vehicle, driving style and priorities. If you want a premium performance tyre for everyday road use, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is the ideal choice for most drivers. If you own a high-performance sports car and want Michelin’s highest level of road performance with occasional track capability, the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 is the better option. Always choose a tyre that matches your vehicle manufacturer’s approved size and specification.
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