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Pirelli P Zero PZ4 vs PZ5
Pirelli are a leading tyre manufacturer on a global scale, better known for their innovation within the performance tyre category.
Their blend of premium technologies, alongside their status as a trusted OEM for many leading car brands, has positioned them as a top premium tyre brand worldwide.
One of Pirelli’s most popular tyre series is their P Zero series, a line of ultra-high performance (UHP) tyres that encapsulate everything that Pirelli stands for – enhanced performance with excellent control.
Two recent generations of P Zero tyres are the ever-popular PZ4 and the newly released PZ5. This article compares both P Zero models and outlines what makes each tyre so innovative.
P Zero (PZ4) overview
The Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) is a premium UHP tyre that is designed for high-end cars and SUVs.
The inner tread of the PZ4 features a high-silica compound, delivering strong traction and safe wet handling. A high pitch sequence further enhances comfort, reducing vibrations during everyday driving.
On the outer edge, the tyre is designed with a low pitch sequence and a refined siping layout to minimise road noise and rolling resistance, improving efficiency and cabin quietness.
The PZ4 also benefits from customised tread compound solutions to balance fuel efficiency, wet grip and long-lasting wear – making it a strong all-round performer in the summer tyre category.
Since its release, the PZ4 has become a popular choice for manufacturers like Audi, BMW and Maserati as Original Equipment (OE), reflecting its blend of control, comfort and dry/wet performance.
P Zero (PZ5) overview
Pirelli P Zero (PZ5)
The Pirelli P Zero (PZ5) is a high performance tyre delivering precise handling and outstanding stability.
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The Pirelli P Zero (PZ5) is also a premium UHP tyre that was recently released by Pirelli in 2025.
The PZ5 is engineered with inclined main grooves to boost lateral stability – improving cornering grip and delivering a more dynamic, sporty driving feel.
Its newly optimised tread layout features updated geometries that reduce wear over time, helping the tyre maintain consistent performance and deliver higher mileage throughout its lifespan.
To further enhance ride quality, the PZ5 uses progressive sipes within the tread pattern. These are designed to reduce road noise while ensuring the tread performs consistently at varying speeds.
The all-new P Zero (PZ5) is set to be a top choice for Pirelli customers for years to come due to its innovative technologies and dynamic performance capabilities.
What’s the difference between the Pirelli PZ4 and PZ5?
The short answer is that the PZ5 is the newer, more capable all-rounder, while the PZ4 remains the wider-fitment, more efficiency-focused option with a longer track record of Original Equipment approvals.
The table below sets out how the two Pirelli P Zero generations compare across the areas UK drivers ask about most.
| Category | Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) | Pirelli P Zero (PZ5) | Our pick |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wet grip (label) | Rated A or B depending on size | Rated A across available sizes | PZ5 |
| Wet braking | Strong, but wet grip class varies by size | Top-tier wet braking in 2025 independent testing | PZ5 |
| Dry grip | Balanced UHP dry grip; multiple test wins from 2019 onwards | First place for dry handling in its 2025 test debut | PZ5 |
| Handling | Precise steering with a comfort-led balance | Inclined main grooves add lateral stability and a sportier feel | PZ5 |
| Noise (label) | 69A – 75B, so the quietest sizes are quieter than any PZ5 | 70B – 73B, a narrower and more consistent range | Draw |
| Ride comfort | High pitch sequence reduces everyday vibration | Progressive sipes smooth the ride at varying speeds | PZ5 |
| Fuel efficiency | A – D, with A available in some sizes | B – D, starting one class lower | PZ4 |
| Rolling resistance | Outer tread designed to lower rolling resistance | Competitive but not class-leading in 2025 testing | PZ4 |
| Tread life | Compound tuned for long-lasting wear | Updated tread geometries designed to raise mileage | PZ5 |
| EV suitability | Elect variants available on selected sizes | Built around Elect requirements from the outset | PZ5 |
| Size & OE choice | Very broad range, including Star-Marked and MO fitments | Growing range as the model rolls out | PZ4 |
| Test wins | Winner of Auto Bild and EVO tests, plus WhatTyre honours | Two overall 2025 summer test wins in its first year | PZ5 |
Taken as a whole, the PZ5 wins on outright wet and dry performance, cornering stability and projected mileage. The PZ4 holds its ground on fuel efficiency, size availability and factory-specific fitments – which is exactly why it remains on sale alongside its successor.
Tyre label ratings
Tyre label ratings offer a clear overview of a tyre’s performance in several important areas.
Regulated by EU legislation, these ratings may vary depending on the tyre size or specialised tyre variants for specific car manufacturers.
The categories assessed include:
- Fuel Efficiency – Ranked A to E
- Wet Grip – Ranked A to E
- Tyre Noise – Ranked with numbers and A to C/Decibels (dB)
P Zero (PZ4) label ratings
- Fuel Efficiency: A – D
- Wet Grip: A or B
- Tyre Noise: 69A – 75B
P Zero (PZ5) label ratings
- Fuel Efficiency: B – D
- Wet Grip: A
- Tyre Noise: 70B – 73B
These figures reflect the sizes available at Blackcircles.com.
PZ4 vs PZ5 dry performance, handling and braking distance
Dry performance is where the P Zero name built its reputation, and both generations are genuinely quick. The difference is in how they get there.
The PZ4 uses an asymmetric layout with a high-silica inner tread and a stiffer outer shoulder, giving predictable turn-in and steady grip through long, fast corners. It has been a benchmark performance tyre since 2019 and still feels precise on a well-sorted chassis.
The PZ5 changes the emphasis. Its inclined main grooves increase tread block support under lateral load, which sharpens direction changes and holds the car more securely mid-corner. In its 2025 test debut it took first place in both dry handling and wet handling – the two disciplines that most closely reflect how a performance tyre feels on a British B-road.
On braking distance, the EU label is the most reliable guide for a direct PZ4 versus PZ5 comparison. Wet grip class is measured on wet braking performance, so the PZ5’s consistent A rating means it will stop in a shorter distance in the wet than a PZ4 size rated B. Where both tyres carry an A, expect the difference to be marginal.
In the dry, independent testing places the PZ5 among the strongest performers in its class, though not always the outright shortest stopper – rivals such as the Continental SportContact 7 have recorded the shortest dry braking zones in the same tests. For most drivers the gap is measured in fractions of a car length.
Verdict: the PZ5 is the stronger tyre for dry handling, cornering confidence and wet stopping distances. The PZ4 remains a capable performance tyre, particularly in its A-rated wet grip sizes.
Rolling resistance and fuel efficiency compared
Rolling resistance is the energy a tyre uses simply to keep turning, and it is the single biggest tyre-related factor in fuel consumption or EV range. On the EU label it appears as the fuel efficiency grade.
Here the PZ4 has the edge. Its label ratings span A to D, so the most efficient PZ4 sizes reach the top band, helped by the low pitch sequence and refined siping on the outer tread. The PZ5 spans B to D, meaning even its best sizes sit one class lower.
Independent 2025 testing reflects the same pattern: the PZ5’s rolling resistance was competitive but mid-pack rather than class-leading, which is a common trade-off for a tyre tuned so heavily towards grip and handling.
In practical terms, one label class is worth roughly 1–2% in fuel use over a tyre’s life. If you cover very high motorway mileage, or run an EV where every mile of range counts, check whether an A-rated PZ4 is available in your size before defaulting to the PZ5.
Verdict: the PZ4 is the more efficient choice on paper; the PZ5 gives that back in return for greater grip.
Which is quieter, the PZ4 or the PZ5?
This one depends on the size you need rather than the model. The PZ4 ranges from 69A to 75B, while the PZ5 sits within a tighter 70B to 73B band.
So the very quietest PZ4 sizes are quieter than anything in the PZ5 range, but the noisiest PZ4 sizes are noticeably louder than any PZ5. If you are choosing between the two in the same fitment, check both label figures side by side – a 69A PZ4 and a 73B PZ5 are very different propositions on a long motorway run.
On refinement more broadly, the PZ5’s progressive sipes are designed to keep tread noise consistent as speeds rise, and independent testers rated its cabin noise and subjective comfort as strong for a tyre in this category. The PZ4 counters with a high pitch sequence that takes the edge off sharp vibrations over poor surfaces.
Verdict: the PZ5 is the safer bet for consistent quietness across sizes, but a low-rated PZ4 size will beat it outright.
P Zero (PZ4) awards & recognition
The Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) has claimed various awards and tyre test wins throughout its history, including:
- Auto Bild Sports Car Tyre Test, 2019: Winner
- EVO Summer Tyre Test, 2019: Winner
- WhatTyre Performance Tyre of the Year, 2022: Winner
- Driver Reviews, Best Tyres for High Performance Cars, 2024/25: Highly Recommended
P Zero (PZ5) awards & recognition
Despite being a relatively new release, the P Zero (PZ5) has already built a strong record in independent testing:
- Tyre Reviews Best Performance Tyres, 2025: Winner (1st of 7)
- Auto Express Summer Tyre Test, 2025: Winner (1st of 9)
- WhatTyre Supersports Tyre of the Year, 2025: Top ranking
Both 2025 tests were conducted in the popular 225/40 R18 size on a Volkswagen Golf GTI, with the PZ5 taking first place for dry handling and wet handling in its debut outing.
How the PZ5 compares with rival performance tyres
The PZ5 did not win its 2025 tests in isolation. It was measured against the established benchmarks of the ultra-high performance category, including the Continental SportContact 7, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S, the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 and the Bridgestone Potenza Sport.
Versus the Continental SportContact 7: the SportContact 7 had been the category’s repeat winner for three years, and it still records the shortest dry braking distances of the group. The PZ5 edged ahead on overall balance, with stronger handling scores in both wet and dry conditions. The Continental’s relative weakness is aquaplaning resistance.
Versus the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S: the Pilot Sport 4 S remains the benchmark for steering feel and adjustability, and it is a long-standing favourite for OE fitment on BMW, Tesla and Mercedes-Benz models. It now trails the newest generation on wet performance, which is where the PZ5 gained most of its advantage.
Versus the Bridgestone Potenza Sport: this was the closest challenger in the Auto Express test, finishing a fraction of a percent behind overall and actually beating the PZ5 on wet braking.
If you are weighing up a rival rather than a Pirelli, our Continental SportContact 7 vs Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S comparison covers those two models in full detail.
Customer reviews
At Blackcircles.com, customer feedback is essential in guiding others to choose the right tyres with confidence.
Our review system encourages genuine, verified buyers to share their experiences and rate the tyres they’ve purchased based on real-world performance.
As part of the review process, customers are invited to score their tyres across four key areas:
- Overall Ratings
- Would the customer buy the tyres again
- Does the vehicle feel better to drive
- Were the tyres value for money
P Zero (PZ4) customer reviews
customers have reviewed the P Zero (PZ4) as follows:
P Zero (PZ5) customer reviews
With the PZ5 being a new model, we currently lack a sufficient number of reviews for this model.
Once we do, we will be sure to insert the customer reviews of this tyre.
P Zero (PZ4) common tyre sizes
P Zero (PZ5) common tyre sizes
P Zero (PZ4) common car models
P Zero (PZ5) common car models
Price ranges
Prices for tyre models typically vary depending on tyre sizes or specialised car manufacturer fitments.
Fully fitted prices for the Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) range from £ to £ .
Fully fitted prices for the Pirelli P Zero (PZ5) range from £ to £ .
Every price shown at Blackcircles.com is fully fitted, so it already includes fitting, balancing, a new valve and disposal of your old tyre at your chosen local garage. There is nothing to add at the counter, which makes it straightforward to compare against a quote from a high-street fast-fit centre.
On value, the PZ5 tends to command a small premium as the newer flagship, though it has been priced competitively against rival UHP tyres since launch. If your size is available in both models, compare the fully fitted totals above alongside the label ratings – that combination usually makes the decision obvious.
Which Pirelli P Zero should you choose?
The right P Zero depends far more on how you drive than on which tyre is newer. Use the guide below to match the model to your usage.
| How you drive | Best choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| High motorway mileage | PZ4 | Look for an A-rated fuel efficiency size with a low noise figure such as 69A. Efficiency and refinement matter more than cornering limits at a steady 70 mph. |
| Sporty hatchback or hot hatch | PZ5 | Both 2025 test wins were achieved in 225/40 R18 on a Golf GTI, which is the definitive hot hatch fitment. |
| Fast, wet British B-roads | PZ5 | Consistent A-rated wet grip and first place for wet handling give it the clearest safety margin when the road is greasy. |
| Performance EV or hybrid | PZ5 | Designed around Pirelli Elect requirements from the outset, handling instant torque and higher kerb weights. |
| Premium SUV | PZ4 | Far broader large-diameter range, with 4x4-specific and OE-approved variants already established. |
| Car needing a factory-specific fitment | PZ4 | Star-Marked, MO and other manufacturer-homologated versions are more widely available on the PZ4. |
| Occasional track days | PZ5 | Improved lateral stability and top dry handling scores, while remaining civilised for the drive home. |
Is it worth upgrading from the PZ4 to the PZ5?
If your PZ4s are worn out and your size is available in both models, the PZ5 is the tyre we would recommend for most drivers. It is stronger in the wet, sharper in the dry and designed to hold its performance for longer as the tread wears down.
There are three situations where staying with the PZ4 makes better sense:
- Your car requires a manufacturer-homologated tyre, such as a Star-Marked version for a BMW or an MO version for a Mercedes-Benz, and that fitment only exists in the PZ4 range.
- Fuel economy or EV range is your priority and an A-rated PZ4 is available in your size.
- You only need to replace one or two tyres and the remaining tread on your existing PZ4s is still healthy.
One point worth clearing up: the PZ5 does not mean the PZ4 is discontinued. Pirelli continue to supply the PZ4 alongside its successor, largely because of the depth of OE approvals attached to it. You will find both models available at Blackcircles.com for the foreseeable future.
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Buy Pirelli P Zero PZ4 and PZ5 tyres at Blackcircles.com
Whether you want the proven breadth of the Pirelli P Zero (PZ4) or the test-winning performance of the Pirelli P Zero (PZ5), both generations are available at Blackcircles.com at fully fitted prices.
Enter your registration or tyre size to see every P Zero option for your car, compare label ratings and verified customer reviews side by side, then book fitting at a local garage on a date that suits you.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Pirelli P Zero PZ4 still good in 2026 for high-end sports cars?
Absolutely; the PZ4 is still a fantastic tyre in 2026. It remains an elite choice, particularly if you require specific ‘Star-Marked’ or ‘MO’ versions tailored exactly to your BMW or Mercedes-Benz factory specifications.
What are the main improvements in the PZ5 compared with the PZ4?
The most significant improvements are the updated tread geometries, which provide better lateral stability during high-speed cornering and more consistent wear over time. The PZ5 also carries a consistent A rating for wet grip across the range.
Which tyre has the shorter braking distance, the PZ4 or the PZ5?
The PZ5 should stop shorter in the wet. Wet grip on the EU tyre label is measured on wet braking performance, and the PZ5 is rated A across its range, while the PZ4 is rated A or B depending on size. Where both tyres carry an A rating in your size, the difference will be marginal. In the dry, independent 2025 testing placed the PZ5 among the strongest performers in its class.
Which is better for motorway driving, the PZ4 or the PZ5?
For high motorway mileage the PZ4 can be the better choice, provided your size is available with a top fuel efficiency rating and a low noise figure. Its label range extends to A for fuel efficiency and down to 69A for noise, both of which beat anything in the PZ5 range. The PZ5 is more consistent across sizes, so always compare the two labels in your specific fitment.
Can I mix PZ4 and PZ5 tyres on the same car?
You should never mix different tyre models across the same axle. Tread patterns and compounds behave differently under braking and cornering, which can unsettle the car and interfere with ABS and stability control. Fitting PZ4s on one axle and PZ5s on the other is legal in the UK but not something we would recommend, as the two generations have different grip characteristics. If you are replacing in pairs, always fit the newer tyres to the rear axle. Ideally, fit a matching set of four.
Are the PZ4 and PZ5 suitable for cold UK winters?
Both the PZ4 and the PZ5 are summer tyres, so neither is designed for cold weather use. Their compounds harden below roughly 7 °C, which lengthens braking distances on cold, wet or icy roads. If you drive year-round in exposed or rural parts of the UK, consider a set of winter tyres for the colder months, or an all-season tyre if you would rather not swap twice a year.
Does the PZ5 feature Pirelli Elect technology for electric vehicles?
Yes. While the PZ4 introduced Elect variants to the range, the PZ5 was developed from the outset to meet Elect standards. That means lower rolling resistance to protect range, reinforced construction to cope with the higher kerb weight of an EV and a compound able to handle the instant torque delivery that wears conventional tyres more quickly. Look for the Elect marking on the sidewall when checking sizes.
Which gives better fuel economy, the PZ4 or the PZ5?
The PZ4 has the advantage here. Its fuel efficiency label ratings run from A to D, whereas the PZ5 runs from B to D, so the most efficient PZ4 sizes sit a full class ahead. Independent 2025 testing also found the PZ5’s rolling resistance to be competitive rather than class-leading, which is a typical trade-off for a tyre tuned so strongly for grip.
How does the PZ5 compare with the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S and Continental SportContact 7?
The PZ5 beat both in the 2025 Tyre Reviews performance tyre test, taking first place while the SportContact 7 and Pilot Sport 4 S shared second with a Highly Recommended rating. The Continental still records the shortest dry braking distances of the group, and the Michelin remains the benchmark for steering feel, but the PZ5 came out ahead on overall balance thanks to its wet and dry handling scores.
Where can I buy Pirelli P Zero PZ5 tyres in the UK?
You can buy both the PZ4 and the PZ5 at Blackcircles.com, with fully fitted prices that include fitting, balancing, a new valve and disposal of your old tyre. Choose your size, pick a convenient date and a local garage from our nationwide network, and pay online before you go. Because the price you see is the price you pay, it is easy to compare directly against a quote from a high-street fitting centre.
