After its initial release in 2016, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 made it to the top of the podium for its excellent handling and braking performance. About a year later, the tyre manufacturer rolled out the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S which it said would become “one of the most successful sports tyres ever designed by Michelin for the general public”. The question is, is there a real difference between the two?
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 review
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 was the successor to the Pilot Sport 3 which is known for its excellent tread life but is lacking in terms of performance and noise levels. This upgraded model addresses these inefficiencies. Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres have a larger contact patch, increasing their grip on dry surfaces and decreasing the car’s braking distance. The design incorporates Dynamic Response Technology, which improves steering control, and an ultra-responsive tread pattern that adapts to the road.
Along with its improved elastomer silica compound, the deep grooves in the tread improve traction in wet conditions, increasing the tyres’ resistance to aquaplaning. This version also has 13% less rolling resistance than the Pilot Sport 3. It was initially only released as a summer tyre, however, the brand later released an all-season model.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S review
This is also a high-performance summer tyre with an almost identical structure. The dual compound design allows it to perform better in various conditions, with a new ‘hybrid’ compound on the outer part of the tyre suited to dry surfaces and an elastomer silica compound on the inner part of the tyre for improved wet grip. Like the PS 4, it also comes with a deep rim protector for greater reliability.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 vs 4S
It isn’t so easy to spot the difference between the Pilot Sport 4 and 4S just by looking at them. The main difference lies in their performance. Although both types perform well on dry surfaces the 4S performs slightly better when it comes to dry handling and braking. While the PS 4 is more resistant to aquaplaning, the 4S still comes out on top for its wet handling performance and grip. The PS 4 has a lower rolling resistance which reduces the amount of energy needed to roll it, while the 4S has a slightly larger contact patch.
Neither of the summer models are designed for snowy conditions, but if you’re looking for a high-performance tyre that performs all year round, the all-season PS 4 may be the one for you. Both tyres generate low levels of noise and provide a high level of comfort when driving.
If you clicked on this article, you may just be a curious car enthusiast, but it’s also likely that you’re scouting around for the best high performance tyres for your vehicle. We recommend that you check out the Michelin tyre offers for your car.
