Michelin are a
premium tyre brand that are known to manufacture some of the most sought-after models on the market.
Michelin's Primacy series is amongst these renowned tyres that Michelin produce today, known for its exceptional longevity and performance.
Two of the most recent generations of Primacy tyres are the
Primacy 4+ and Primacy 5.
This article compares the Primacy 4+ and the recent Primacy 5, highlighting key features and customer feedback from Blackcircles.com.
Quick Verdict
Quick verdict: The Primacy 5 improves on the Primacy 4+ with Michelin’s latest compound for better long-term mileage and marginally shorter wet braking when new. The Primacy 4+ remains the proven, test-winning choice for drivers prioritising established wet performance.
Primacy 4+ Overview
The Michelin Primacy 4+, a
summer tyre introduced in 2022, builds upon the success of its predecessor, the
Primacy 4.
Like the Primacy 4, it incorporates Michelin's EverGrip technology for superior wet-weather performance, maintaining safe handling even with significant wear.
Both models also benefit from MaxTouch Construction, maximizing road contact for enhanced handling and extended tread life.
A key distinction, however, is the Primacy 4 Plus’s superior braking performance in worn conditions. This improvement is attributed to EverGrip's dual-layer rubber compound, which effectively mitigates the performance degradation typically associated with reduced tread depth.
The Primacy 4+ replaced the Primacy 4 upon its release.
Buy Primacy 4+ tyres
Primacy 5 Overview
The Michelin Primacy 5, a new summer tyre with a global release in 2025, represents the latest evolution of the acclaimed Primacy line.
Building on the success of the Primacy 4+, the Primacy 5 offers a significant 18% increase in mileage and a 4% reduction in wet braking distance (when new).
This premium tyre incorporates Michelin's EverGrip and EverTread technologies for enhanced longevity and superior water evacuation capabilities.
Furthermore, MaxTouch technology maximizes road contact, leading to improved acceleration, braking, and cornering performance, all while extending tread life without compromising safety.
Given the strong track record of previous Primacy models, the Primacy 5 is poised for considerable success in the years to come.
Buy Primacy 5 tyres
Tyre Label Ratings
EU-regulated tyre label ratings provide standardised measurements of tyre performance across key categories.
It's important to note that these ratings can vary depending on the specific tyre size and/or specialised car manufacturer fitment.
The key performance categories included on the label are:
- Fuel Efficiency – Ranked A to E
- Wet Grip – Ranked A to E
- Tyre Noise – Ranked with numbers and A to C/Decibels (dB)
Primacy 4+ Label Ratings
- Fuel Efficiency: B – C
- Wet Grip: A
- Tyre Noise: 68B – 72B
Primacy 5 Label Ratings
- Fuel Efficiency: B or C
- Wet Grip: A
- Tyre Noise: 70B
Primacy 4+ Awards
Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Michelin Primacy 4+ has already achieved considerable success in various tyre tests and awards.
In 2023, it received a "Highly Recommended" award in the ‘Best Tyres for Family Cars’ category at the DriverReviews customer choice awards.
Furthermore, a 2024 Autobild summer tyre test ranked the Primacy 4+ first out of 21 205/55 R16 tyres, praising its balanced performance, excellent handling, short dry braking distances, impressive mileage, and economic efficiency.
Given its relatively short lifespan, the Primacy 4+ is expected to garner further recognition in the years ahead.
Primacy 5 Awards
The Michelin Primacy 5, launched in 2025, is too new to have received any external awards or tyre test accolades as of the date of writing this article (03/01/2025).
However, given its impressive performance characteristics, we anticipate that this summer tyre will garner significant recognition in the years to come.
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews at Blackcircles.com are powered by DriverReviews, providing valuable feedback from users on previously purchased tyres.
This allows potential buyers to access real-world experiences and feedback on specific tyre models.
The following categories are rated:
- Overall ratings
- Would the customer buy the tyres again
- Does the car feel better to drive
- Were the tyres value for money
Primacy 4+ Customer Reviews
customers have reviewed the Primacy 4+ as follows:
Primacy 5 Customer Reviews
customers have reviewed the Primacy 5 as follows:
Primacy 4+ Common Tyre Sizes
Primacy 5 Common Tyre Sizes
Primacy 4+ Common Car Models
Primacy 5 Common Car Models
Price Ranges
Prices for tyre models may vary between different tyre sizes and specialty car manufacturer fitments.
Fully fitted prices for the Michelin Primacy 4+ range from £ to £ .
Fully fitted prices for the Michelin Primacy 5 range from £ to £ .
FAQs:
How much longer does Primacy 5 last than Primacy 4+?
Michelin claims up to an 18% increase in mileage versus previous Primacy models. Real-world gains vary by driving style and size - we’ll update with independent test mileage once available.
Are these tyres suitable for wet UK weather?
Both tyres use Michelin’s EverGrip tech and are rated A for wet grip in many sizes, making them good choices for wet conditions. Primacy 4+ has independent test accolades for wet braking, while Primacy 5 claims improved wet braking when new.
Can I use Primacy tyres in winter?
No - Primacy 4+ and Primacy 5 are summer tyres. For winter conditions or temperatures regularly below 7°C, choose a winter tyre or an all-season alternative.
What sizes do the Primacy 5 and 4+ come in?
Common sizes include 205/55 R16, 225/50 R17, 235/45 R18 (Primacy 4+) and 225/45 R17, 235/45 R18, 235/55 R17 (Primacy 5). Check the product page for full size availability.
How noisy are these tyres?
Typical noise ratings are around 68–72 dB for Primacy 4+ and roughly 70 dB for Primacy 5, depending on the size. Check the EU tyre label on your exact size.
Where can I see real customer reviews?
Customer reviews are on each product page on Blackcircles. We also show aggregated ratings in the top section where available.
