Considering the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP for your vehicle but not sure if it’s the right fit? You’re not alone. With so many tires on the market, finding the perfect one can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. This review will cut through the noise and give you the straight facts about the Pilot Super Sport ZP, helping you make an informed decision.
The Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP excels in dry and wet performance, providing top-tier handling and comfort, but it comes with a higher price tag. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking high performance and reliability.
In this article, we’ll dive into the key features, performance metrics, and real-world feedback on the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP. You’ll learn how it stacks up against top competitors and find out if it’s the right tire for your driving needs.
Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.7 of 10
Wet Weather
8.4 of 10
Winter Weather
N/A
Treadwear
7.9 of 10
Dry Weather
9.1 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.5 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 300
UTQG Traction Rating: AA
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 30,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.4 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.4 of 10
Cornering: 8.9 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.1 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.8 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: N/A
Heavy Snow Grip: N/A
Ice Grip: N/A
Comfort Level: 8.5 of 10
Road Noise: 8.3 of 10
The Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP stands out as a premium Max Performance Summer Run Flat tire, designed for drivers who seek top-tier performance on the road. This tire is engineered to deliver excellent handling, superior dry and wet traction, and high levels of comfort, making it a reliable choice for high-performance vehicles.
Michelin has incorporated advanced technology into the Pilot Super Sport ZP. The tire features a specialized tread compound aimed at maximizing grip and performance. Its asymmetric tread design, with rigid tread blocks and optimized contact patches, ensures stability and precise handling at high speeds. The tire also boasts reinforced sidewalls to maintain structure and safety in the event of a puncture.
One of the notable characteristics of the Pilot Super Sport ZP is its ability to combine high performance with everyday usability. Despite its focus on performance, the tire maintains a comfortable ride and reasonable noise levels, making it suitable for both spirited driving and daily commutes.
DRY WEATHER PERFORMANCE
- Stable Cornering: Reliable road contact for steady and safe cornering.
- Strong Dry Traction: Impressive grip, particularly in sudden maneuvers and tight turns.
WET WEATHER PERFORMANCE
- Hydroplaning Resistance: The tread pattern effectively channels water away, minimizing hydroplaning risks.
- Wet Traction: Provides secure handling and stability in rainy conditions.
COMFORT AND NOISE LEVEL
- Comfort Features: Designed to reduce vibrations, contributing to a smoother ride.
- Noise Control: Despite being a high-performance tire, it manages to keep road noise at a reasonable level.
TREAD WEAR AND LONGEVITY
- Robust Composition: Made with long-lasting materials for extended tire life.
- Efficient Tread Design: Promotes even wear and maintains performance over time.
PROS
- Excellent dry and wet traction.
- Stable handling at high speeds.
- Comfortable ride with low noise levels.
- Durable construction for extended tire life.
CONS
- Performance in winter/snow conditions is not applicable.
- Higher price point compared to some competitors.
The Verdict
The Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP is an outstanding choice for those seeking a high-performance tire that excels in both dry and wet conditions while providing a comfortable and relatively quiet ride. Its robust design and advanced features make it a top contender in the Max Performance Summer Run Flat tire category, suitable for a variety of high-performance vehicles and driving conditions.
Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP Problems
The Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP is well-regarded for its exceptional dry and wet performance, stable handling, and comfortable ride. However, some feedback from users highlights issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Understanding these potential drawbacks is crucial for making an informed choice that aligns with specific driving needs and expectations.
Price and Value
- High Cost: One of the primary concerns with the Pilot Super Sport ZP is its higher price point compared to other tires in the same category. While the tire offers excellent performance, some drivers may find the cost prohibitive, especially when compared to more budget-friendly options.
Tread Wear and Longevity
- Variable Tread Life: Despite its high-quality construction, some users report inconsistent tread wear. Factors such as driving style, vehicle type, and maintenance practices can significantly influence the tire’s lifespan. Regular rotation and proper alignment are essential to maximize tread life.
- Wear Rating: The Pilot Super Sport ZP has a treadwear rating of 7.9, which is good but not the best in its category. This indicates that while the tire is durable, there are competitors with higher ratings that might offer longer-lasting performance.
Winter Performance
- Not Suitable for Snow and Ice: As a Max Performance Summer tire, the Pilot Super Sport ZP is not designed for winter conditions. It lacks the traction needed for safe driving on snow and ice, making it necessary to switch to dedicated winter tires in colder climates.
Ride Comfort and Noise
- Firm Ride: While the tire provides a high level of performance, some drivers might find the ride firmer than expected, especially on rough roads. This is a trade-off for its enhanced handling capabilities.
Comparison to Alternatives
- Competitors Offering Better Value: When compared to some top alternatives in the Max Performance Summer Run Flat tire category, the Pilot Super Sport ZP excels in handling and wet traction. However, for drivers prioritizing longevity and cost-effectiveness, there may be other tires that offer a better balance for everyday use.
The Bottom Line
While the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP offers a comprehensive set of benefits, especially for performance enthusiasts and those requiring excellent wet and dry traction, prospective buyers should consider these potential issues in the context of their unique driving needs.
Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP Alternatives
While the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP is a standout in the Max Performance Summer Run Flat tire category, you might be considering other options that better fit your specific needs. Here are three top alternatives, each with unique strengths. We’ll include a budget-conscious choice for those looking to save some cash without sacrificing too much performance.
Bridgestone Potenza S001 RFT
Overall Rating: The Bridgestone Potenza S001 RFT is an excellent choice for those seeking high performance with reliable run-flat technology.
Wet/Dry: The tire shines with a wet traction rating of 8.5 and dry performance rating of 8.9, making it a solid performer in varied conditions.
Comfort: It offers a good level of comfort with a rating of 8.3, though some users report it being slightly firm.
Treadwear: The tire has a good treadwear rating of 7.3, which is on par with the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP.
Comparison: While the Bridgestone Potenza S001 RFT matches the Pilot Super Sport ZP in many areas, it provides a slightly firmer ride. However, it’s a great alternative if you’re looking for excellent performance and reliable run-flat capability.
Pirelli P Zero Run Flat (PZ4)
Overall Rating: The Pirelli P Zero Run Flat (PZ4) is another top-notch option that excels in both wet and dry conditions.
Wet/Dry: This tire shines with a wet traction rating of 9.2 and a dry performance rating of 9.1, making it one of the best in its class.
Comfort: It provides a comfortable ride, scoring 8.3 in comfort, comparable to the Pilot Super Sport ZP.
Treadwear: With a treadwear rating of 6.9, it is slightly lower than the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP, but still offers reasonable longevity.
Comparison: The Pirelli P Zero Run Flat (PZ4) exceeds the Pilot Super Sport ZP in wet performance and offers comparable dry traction, making it a solid choice for those seeking top-tier performance in all conditions.
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 RunOnFlat
Overall Rating: The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 RunOnFlat is a solid, budget-friendly run-flat tire that doesn’t skimp on performance.
Wet/Dry: With wet and dry ratings of 8.7 respectively, it performs well across various conditions.
Comfort: It offers a decent ride with a comfort rating of 8.1, though it is slightly noisier compared to premium options.
Treadwear: The tire has a fair treadwear rating of 5.9, making it less durable but a good value for the price.
Comparison: While the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 RunOnFlat might not match the top-tier performance of the Pilot Super Sport ZP, it offers a very competitive alternative at a lower price. It’s a great pick for those who want reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Depending on your driving needs and budget, these options present viable choices to consider alongside the Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP.
- The Bridgestone Potenza S001 RFT is ideal for those seeking high performance with reliable run-flat technology.
- The Pirelli P Zero Run Flat (PZ4) offers balanced excellence with a slight edge in wet performance.
- The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 RunOnFlat provides solid performance at a budget-friendly price.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
Final Thoughts
The Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP impresses with its excellent dry and wet performance, providing strong cornering, reliable steering response, and solid traction. It also delivers a comfortable and quiet ride, making it ideal for daily driving and long highway trips. However, it shows some weaknesses in winter conditions, particularly in ice and deep snow traction, making it less suitable for harsh winter climates.
Overall, the Pilot Super Sport ZP is on par with the leaders in dry and wet performance but falls behind when it comes to winter traction. If you live in a mild climate or prioritize performance and comfort over winter capability, this tire is a strong contender.
Good luck and happy motoring.
