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Pirelli P Zero (PZ5) vs Michelin Pilot Sport 5
Michelin and
Pirelli have long been two of the biggest premium players in the ultra-high-performance summer tyre segment. Both brands are known for pushing the limits of performance and innovation.
That’s why we’re comparing their latest UHP tyres — the
Michelin Pilot Sport 5 and the
Pirelli P Zero (PZ5).
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what each tyre offers, breaking down their key technologies and traits to help you decide which is the better fit for your car and driving style.
P Zero (PZ5) Overview
Now in its fifth generation, Pirelli’s iconic P Zero builds on the success of its predecessors to deliver improved consistency, efficiency, and overall performance.
Featuring an optimised asymmetric tread pattern, advanced compound technology, and a refined internal construction, the PZ5 is designed to provide sharp steering response alongside enhanced cornering control.
Its tread design focuses on maintaining reliable braking and traction in both wet and dry conditions, with improved groove geometry to help disperse surface water and reduce the risk of aquaplaning.
Moreover, it was engineered in close collaboration with leading vehicle manufacturers like
Lamborghini and
BMW, so it perfectly caters to the demands of a wide range of high-performance cars.
Pilot Sport 5 Overview
Just like the PZ5, Michelin’s new Pilot Sport 5 comes from a long line of award-winning tyres.
Following the same formula as its ancestors, the Pilot Sport 5 is a premium high-performance summer tyre designed to deliver a balance of sporty handling, long-lasting grip and refined road feel.
At the heart of the tyre is Michelin’s MaxTouch Construction, which helps to evenly spread the forces generated during acceleration, braking, and cornering, supporting more consistent wear and sustained performance.
The Pilot Sport 5 also uses Michelin’s Dual Sport Tread Design, which separates the tread into distinct inner and outer zones for optimised performance.
Wide longitudinal grooves on the inner tread area improve water dispersion to support confident wet braking, while the reinforced outer shoulder blocks enhance grip and stability on dry roads.
The Pilot Sport 5 succeeded the Pilot Sport 4 following its launch in 2022.
Tyre Label Ratings
Tyre label ratings offer a useful snapshot of how a tyre performs across important safety and efficiency criteria.Set out under EU regulations, these ratings can vary depending on tyre size and specific manufacturer fitments.
The label evaluates tyres across the following categories:
Fuel Efficiency – Graded from A to E
Wet Grip – Graded from A to E
Tyre Noise – Measured in decibels (dB), alongside an A, B, or C noise class
P Zero (PZ5) Label Ratings
- Fuel Efficiency: B – D
- Wet Grip: A
- Tyre Noise: 70B – 73B
Pilot Sport 5 Label Ratings
- Fuel Efficiency: A – C
- Wet Grip: A – B
- Tyre Noise: 72B (with 1 SKU having a 75B rating)
Please note that this data relates to Blackcircles.com tyre sizes only.
P Zero (PZ5) Awards & Recognition
Despite only being launched in 2025, the new P Zero has already established itself as a top performer in the UHP segment.
P Zero (PZ5) has been recognised by leading automotive publications and industry bodies for its exceptional performance across a variety of driving disciplines. Some of the key awards and accolades include:
- Tyrereviews, Best UHP Tyres, 2025: Winner
- Auto Express 2025 Summer Tyre Test: Winner
Pilot Sport 5 Awards & Recognition
Equally, the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 has earned widespread recognition for its well-judged blend of performance, durability and everyday usability.
Backed by strong results in independent testing and customer-voted awards, the Pilot Sport 5 is praised for delivering assured handling and dependable grip, while remaining ideally suited to sporty road cars and hot hatches.
- Auto Bild Summer Tyre Test, 2025: Winner
- DriverReviews Customer Choice Awards — Best Tyres for Hot Hatches, 2024 & 2025: Winner
- Red Dot Award — Product Design, 2021
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews on Blackcircles.com are sourced through DriverReviews, giving motorists the chance to share honest feedback based on real driving experience with their purchased tyres.Feedback is gathered across the following areas:
- Overall satisfaction
- Willingness to repurchase the tyres
- Improvements to driving feel and performance
- Perceived value for money
P Zero (PZ5) Customer Reviews
Pilot Sport 5 Customer Reviews
P Zero (PZ5) Common Tyre Sizes
Pilot Sport 5 Common Tyre Sizes
P Zero (PZ5) Common Car Models
Pilot Sport 5 Common Car Models
Price Ranges
Prices for tyre models typically range between different tyre sizes or specialised car manufacturer fitments.
Fully fitted prices for the Pirelli P Zero (PZ5) range from £ to £ .
Fully fitted prices for the Pilot Sport 5 range from £ to £ .
Which One Should You Choose?
Both the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 and the Pirelli P Zero (PZ5) are excellent all-round ultra high-performance summer tyres, offering high levels of grip, handling, and safety.
Those looking for a great balance of everyday performance and comfort, may want to consider Michelin’s Pilot Sport 5. While the Pirelli P Zero (PZ5) particularly excels in responsive handling and dynamic driving feel, making it well suited to spirited driving.
Ultimately, though, both tyres perform strongly in their segment, so the best choice depends on your vehicle and personal driving priorities.