The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Review: Features and Performance

Since its release in 2017, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S has remained the industry standard for drivers of high-performance vehicles. However, Michelin and the competition have introduced new models in the wake of this legendary tire.

So, does the Pilot Sport 4S have what it takes to continue competing at the highest level? 

In this review, we’ll look in-depth at how Michelin’s #1 max-performance summer tire performs and whether it still merits a place on your gleaming wheels.

Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Review: Features 

Michelin considers the Pilot Sport 4S to be the best summer tire available. It was created in collaboration with some of the most demanding automobile manufacturers, including BMW, Porsche, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz.

The silica-enhanced tread compound was inspired by Michelin’s driving experience at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It has a new asymmetric dry-focused tread pattern that improves dry and wet handling, acceleration, and braking.

Michelin’s Dynamic Response Technology improves steering response, cornering grip, and stability while extending overall tread life on the Pilot Sport 4S.

Furthermore, the computer-modelled Variable Contact Patch 3.0 evenly distributes the vehicle’s weight during hard cornering. This improves lateral grip while also assisting with heat distribution on the track. It also helps to extend tread life. 

Select PS4S sizes are available with Michelin’s Limited Edition Premium Touch Sidewall treatment, which includes a velvet-effect checkered sidewall to improve the tire’s visual appearance.

Additionally, there are models equipped with Michelin Acoustic Technology. This involves adding a sound-absorbing foam to the tire’s inner liner to reduce cabin noise and make it quieter on the road.  

The internal construction features two steel belts reinforced by a spirally wound hybrid reinforcement to enhance high-speed handling, wear, and durability. 

Michelin Pilot Sport 4s: Performance 

Dry Grip, Traction, and Braking

The Pilot Sport 4S sets an even higher bar for Michelin’s already impressive max-performance tires. This tire provides exceptional lateral grip and longitudinal traction levels in dry and hot climates. 

Furthermore, acceleration is outstanding, and the same can be said for high-speed stability and cornering. The braking distances are also among the shortest of any tire, period.

Wet Grip, Traction, and Braking

The Pilot Sport 4S is one of the best-wet tires in its category. 

The grip levels in the corners are simply exceptional, the traction is adequate even for some extremely powerful cars, and the braking distances are very short.

Despite having fewer grooves and sipes, the PS4S’s sticky tread pattern allows it to grip the surface in wet conditions comfortably. Hydroplaning resistance is also excellent, thanks to the wide circumferential grooves. 

Snow Performance

The Pilot Sport 4S is a max-performance summer tire with no snow-handling features. As such, it should never be used in winter. 

*If you are looking for an all-season tire suited to light snow, try the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3+

Comfort and Road Noise

The PS4S is one of the quietest performance tires thanks to the Acoustic Technology (on select models). 

The ride quality is excellent as well. The softer sidewalls make the tire comfortable and smooth over smaller and larger imperfections. 

Michelin Pilot Sport 4s Review: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional cornering grip and Precise steering 
• Excellent tread life 
• The superior lateral grip on dry surfaces 
• Very surefooted handling in rainy conditions
• Class-leading wet braking
• Excellent hydroplaning resistance 
• Comfortable and quiet 

Cons

• Expensive

Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Review: Warranty

Treadwear warranty: 6 years or 30,000 miles. Half mileage for the rear if it is a different size than the front 

Uniformity Warranty: First year or first 2/32 inch of wear

Workmanship and materials warranty: 6 years. Free replacement for the first year or 2/32 inch or 25% of tread depth, then prorated until 2/32 inch of tread depth remains.

Manufacturer’s special warranty: 60-day satisfaction and 3-year roadside assistance.

Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Review: Compatible Vehicles

The Pilot Sport 4S is available in sizes ranging from 17 to 22 inches in diameter. The sizes accommodate a wide range of vehicles, including:

• VW: Golf GTI, Jetta, CC Sport, Passat, 
• Ford: Fiesta STI, Focus RS, Mustang, Fusion, Explorer, Contour
• Chevrolet: Camaro, Corvette, Impala, Monte Carlo SS, Cobalt, Cruze, Malibu
• Dodge: Challenger, Charger, Avenger
• BMW: M4, M3, 135i, 545i, 550i, 750Li, M5, 330i
• Mercedes-Benz: E550, SL55, SL500, SLK320, CLK430
• Lexus: RC-F, GS350, GS430, IS300, LS460L
• Pontiac: GTO, G8, G6, Grand Prix, Trans Am
• Audi: S4, A6, A4, A8L, TT
• Subaru: Legacy, Outback, Impreza, BRZ
• Mazda: 3, RX-8, Miata
• Acura: TL, RL, RSX
• Honda: Civic, CRZ
• Nissan: 370Z, Maxima
• Buick: Regal, Lucerne
• Hyundai: Sonata, Veloster
• Jaguar: XKR, XK8
• Porsche: 911
• Toyota: Supra
• Chrysler: 200
• Lincoln: LS
• Mercury: Milan

Should You Buy the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S?

We can’t deny there are newer tire models with better sharpness and directness than the Pilot Sport 4S. Nonetheless, despite its higher price, this Michelin tire offers the most balanced set of qualities, including a 30,000-mile treadwear warranty.

If you want to purchase a Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tire set, your local Trail Tire Auto Center is happy to help. Additionally, you can shop our entire selection of tires online using our tire finder tool.

Looking for more information on Michelin UHP tires? Read our review of the Michelin Pilot Super Sport today!