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.
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.
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
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:
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 Super Sport range from £ to £.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which tyre offers better longevity for high-mileage UK drivers?
The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 is the clear winner for durability, often delivering over 35,000 miles in real-world UK conditions. It utilises MaxTouch Construction to distribute forces evenly, significantly outlasting the softer, track-focused Pilot Super Sport.
Is the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 suitable for Electric Vehicles (EVs) in 2026?
Yes, the PS5 is highly recommended for EVs due to its high load capacity and focus on rolling efficiency. It provides the necessary grip for instant EV torque while maintaining the range benefits modern drivers require.
How does the Pilot Super Sport compare in wet UK winter conditions?
While the Pilot Super Sport is a dry-weather masterpiece, it struggles with standing water compared to the Pilot Sport 5. The PS5’s Dual Sport Tread Design is specifically engineered to evacuate water more efficiently on treacherous A-roads.
Can I still use the Pilot Super Sport for track days in 2026?
Absolutely; the Pilot Super Sport remains the superior choice for track enthusiasts seeking ultimate steering precision and high-heat stability. Its Twaron belt technology ensures the tyre maintains its shape under extreme centrifugal force.
Does the Pilot Sport 5 improve fuel economy or EV range?
The Pilot Sport 5 is designed with lower rolling resistance than the Pilot Super Sport, directly contributing to better MPG in petrol cars and extended range for EVs. It balances green credentials with high-performance feedback.
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