Drivers often face a tough decision between comfort-oriented touring tires and performance-driven all-season options. Michelin stands out in both categories with the Primacy MXM4 and the Pilot Sport All Season 4, two models built for very different driving styles.
The Primacy MXM4 delivers a smooth, quiet ride with excellent longevity, making it a popular choice for luxury sedans and daily commuting.
On the other hand, the Pilot Sport All Season 4 focuses on spirited handling, sharp cornering, and high-speed stability while still offering year-round usability.
Both tires promise premium quality, but the right choice depends on whether you prioritize comfort or dynamic control behind the wheel.
Exploring their tread design, road manners, and durability reveals how Michelin balances two unique approaches to all-season driving. This comparison highlights the strengths of each tire and helps identify which one truly fits your driving lifestyle.
Michelin Primacy MXM4 vs Pilot Sport All Season 4
Two premium tires from the same brand. Both carry Michelin’s reputation for quality, but they are made for very different drivers. The Michelin Primacy MXM4 is designed for comfort, smoothness, and daily use on luxury cars.
The Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is designed for grip, agility, and year-round performance on sports cars and sporty sedans. At first glance, both are all-season tires. But once you look deeper, their strengths, weaknesses, and purposes become clear.
Michelin Primacy MXM4 Tire
Product Details
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Brand: Michelin
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Size: 235/40R19
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Section Width: 235 mm
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Load Capacity: 1389 pounds
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Tread Depth: 9.5/32 inches
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Tread Type: Asymmetrical
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Maximum Pressure: 44 psi
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Rim Width: 8.5 inches
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Tire Diameter: 26.4 inches
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Rim Size: 19 inches
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Aspect Ratio: 40
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Load Index: 92
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Speed Rating: V
Features
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Asymmetrical tread with optimized contact patch for smoother transitions.
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All-season compound that balances dry grip and rain performance.
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Low rolling resistance design for fuel efficiency.
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Focus on comfort and quietness, tuned for luxury sedans.
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Often used as original equipment (OE) by carmakers like Lexus, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
What is the good?
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Smooth, cushioned ride, ideal for highways and long trips.
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Very quiet; reduces cabin noise even at higher speeds.
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Good treadwear life under regular use.
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Reliable in dry conditions and moderate rain.
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Designed to match the handling style of premium sedans.
What is the bad?
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Not made for aggressive cornering or high-speed handling.
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Wet grip is fine, but not as advanced as newer models.
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Weak performance in snow and ice.
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Steering feels less sharp compared to performance tires.
Overall Opinion
The Primacy MXM4 is a tire for drivers who value comfort over performance. It suits luxury sedans and drivers who want a calm and quiet ride every day. It’s a practical, long-lasting choice for commuting and relaxed highway travel.
Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
Product Details
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Brand: Michelin
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Size: 245/40ZR18 XL 97Y
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Section Width: 245 mm
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Load Capacity: 1609 pounds
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Tread Depth: 10/32 inches
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Tread Type: Asymmetrical
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Maximum Pressure: 50 psi
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Rim Width: 9.5 inches
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Tire Diameter: 25.9 inches
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Rim Size: 18 inches
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Aspect Ratio: 40
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Load Index: 97
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Speed Rating: Y
Features
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High-grip tread compound designed for dry and wet traction.
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Aggressive asymmetrical tread pattern with large outer shoulder blocks.
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Braking power tested to be among the best in its class.
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Stable cornering even at higher speeds.
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Endorsed by performance carmakers; fitted on vehicles like Corvette.
What is the good?
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Excellent grip in both dry and wet conditions.
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Precise steering response for sporty driving.
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Handles high speeds confidently.
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Strong braking performance in rain.
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Still works in light snow, unlike many performance tires.
What is the bad?
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Ride comfort is firmer; not as soft as Primacy MXM4.
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Road noise is higher, especially on rough pavement.
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Not ideal for heavy snow or icy roads.
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Price is on the higher side compared to comfort-focused tires.
Overall Opinion
The Pilot Sport All Season 4 is for drivers who want fun and confidence year-round. It fits sports sedans, coupes, and performance SUVs. It blends daily usability with strong grip, making it one of the best all-season performance tires available.
Detailed Comparison for Michelin Primacy MXM4 vs Pilot Sport All Season 4
The Michelin Primacy MXM4 and Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 share a brand, but not a mission.
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Ride Comfort: The Primacy MXM4 feels smoother and quieter. The Pilot Sport All Season 4 feels firmer, especially on rougher roads.
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Handling: The Pilot Sport All Season 4 clearly wins. Its sharper steering and stronger cornering grip make it ideal for spirited driving.
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Dry Performance: Pilot Sport All Season 4 has the advantage with shorter braking and stronger acceleration grip.
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Wet Performance: Both perform well, but Pilot Sport All Season 4 offers safer wet braking and better hydroplaning resistance.
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Winter Traction: The Pilot Sport All Season 4 can handle light snow, while the Primacy MXM4 struggles more in cold and slippery conditions.
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Longevity: Primacy MXM4 may last longer in normal commuting since it focuses on even tread wear and lower stress.
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Noise: Primacy MXM4 runs quieter. Pilot Sport is sportier but can produce more road hum.
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Target Driver: MXM4 suits drivers who value peace and fuel efficiency. Pilot Sport All Season 4 suits drivers who enjoy sharper driving and want confidence in different weather.
FAQs
Which tire is better for highway comfort?
The Primacy MXM4 is smoother and quieter on long drives.
Which tire is better for sports cars?
The Pilot Sport All Season 4 offers stronger grip and handling for sporty vehicles.
Do either of these work in snow?
Pilot Sport All Season 4 can handle light snow. The Primacy MXM4 is not suited for winter use.
Which lasts longer?
Primacy MXM4 often delivers longer tread life in regular commuting.
Is the Pilot Sport All Season 4 worth the higher price?
Yes, if you value handling, grip, and year-round sporty performance.
Conclusion
The Michelin Primacy MXM4 is the better pick for comfort, quietness, and everyday commuting. The Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 is the better pick for grip, agility, and confidence in different weather.
Both are high-quality choices, but the right tire depends on your driving style. Relaxed and comfort-focused? Go with the MXM4. Enthusiastic and sporty? Go with the Pilot Sport All Season 4.