Michelin vs Sumitomo

When you start comparing tyres, a few names always rise to the top.Such as Michelin, who are one of the most popular brands on the market.

However, every now and then, a brand like Sumitomo appears on the shortlist.

A budget brand that delivers impressive specifications at a noticeably lower price.

It’s a question more and more motorists are asking - do you go for a world-leading manufacturer, or a brand that’s quietly gaining ground?

Michelin – The Benchmark for Consistency

It’s no understatement to say that Michelin is one of the most recognisable tyre brands in the world.

Founded in France in 1889, it has spent over a century developing tyre technology that balances a mixture of safety, comfort, and durability.

Many consider that the success of Michelin lies their ability to do everything well.

Whether it’s the grip in wet weather, comfort on motorways, or the enduring tread life - Michelin tyres tend to perform consistently across the board.

Michelin’s Signature Technologies

• EverGrip Compound – Maintains wet traction as the tyre wears down.
• MaxTouch Construction – Distributes forces evenly for extend tread life.
• Acoustic Technology – Integrated foam that helps reduce in-cabin noise.

Popular Michelin Tyres

Below are 3 of the most popular tyre models available from Michelin at the time of writing.

Pilot Sport 5

This is the Michelin flagship performance tyre. Popular with customers for razor-sharp handling and outstanding wet braking.

 customers have reviewed the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 as follows:

Fully fitted prices for the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 range from £   to £   .

Primacy 4+

A part of the popular Primacy range, this is a premium touring tyre - with a focus on comfort and wet grip. Commonly fitted to family cars and long-distance commuters.  customers have reviewed the Michelin Primacy 4+ as follows:

Fully fitted prices for the Michelin Primacy 4+ range from £   to £   .

CrossClimate 3

New to the market in 2025, the CrossClimate 3 is already making itself known as one of the best-rated all-season tyres out there. Delivering strong dry, wet, and light-snow performance make it an ideal one-tyre solution for the UK.

 customers have reviewed the Michelin CrossClimate 3 as follows:

Fully fitted prices for the Michelin CrossClimate 3 range from £   to £   .

Sumitomo – The Quiet Performer

Sumitomo might not be as much of a household name as Michelin.

However, it has a heritage which stretches back nearly as far.

Founded in Japan in 1909, it’s part of the same industrial group that owns Falken and Dunlop (in many of the global markets). Which gives the brand some serious engineering depth.

In recent years, Sumitomo has focused on combining durability and everyday safety with competitive pricing.

This has resulted in tyres that deliver solid performance at an attractive value for money proposition.

This makes Sumitomo tyres particularly appealing to drivers who prioritise cost-efficiency.

Sumitomo’s Signature Technologies

• 3D Sipe Design – Enhances wet and snow grip while maintaining tread rigidity.
• Inside-Outside Patterning – Balances stability and traction for mixed conditions.
• EcoTread Compound – Reduces rolling resistance to improve fuel economy.

Popular Sumitomo Tyres

The following tyres are popular with Blackcircles.com customers.

HTR Z5

A summer tyre designed for responsive steering and confident handling. A good choice for drivers wanting a performance edge at a more affordable price.  

customers have reviewed the Sumitomo HTR Z5 as follows:

Fully fitted prices for the Sumitomo HTR Z5 range from £   to £   .

BC100

A balanced tyre focused on comfort, fuel efficiency, and longevity. Well-suited to compact cars and mid-size family cars.

 customers have reviewed the Sumitomo BC100 as follows:

Fully fitted prices for the Sumitomo BC100 range from £   to £   .

WT200

A winter tyre that combines durability, safety, and winter readiness. Its versatile performance ensures good handling and grip in winter conditions.

 customers have reviewed the Sumitomo WT200 as follows:

Fully fitted prices for the Sumitomo WT200 range from £   to £   .

Michelin or Sumitomo?

Both brands cater to different kinds of drivers.

• Michelin sets the bar for all-round excellence. They produce tyres that perform strongly in almost every category. Often lasting longer than most competitors.
• Sumitomo offers dependable tyres with an emphasis on value. You may not get quite the same performance or mileage as a Michelin, but the cost savings can be attractive.

If you want proven performance and longevity, then Michelin for many motorists remains the gold standard.

However, if you are on the lookout for a reliable, an affordable tyre that still delivers solid safety Sumitomo is a brand worth taking seriously.