The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S has long been considered the standard for high-performance summer tires. It performs well on both the track and the street. However, Continental has recently introduced the ExtremeContact Sport 02 series as a competitor to the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S. Tyre Reviews set out to determine which one is better.

There are two main criticisms of the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S: its price and age. Michelin launched the Pilot Sport 4S over eight years ago, which is quite old in terms of tire technology. Additionally, it is one of the most expensive performance tires, costing over $1,700 for a set of four. Michelin introduced the Pilot Sport S 5 this year as well, which is not a direct replacement but an evolution designed for high-performance hybrid and electric vehicles. Despite these factors, the Pilot Sport 4S still consistently performs well in comparison tests.

The Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 is priced about $200 lower than the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S. While this price difference is significant, the performance difference between the old ExtremeContact Sport and the Pilot Sport 4S was always minimal. The Pilot Sport 4S had an advantage in terms of feel and steering response, which Continental claims to have improved with the new ExtremeContact Sport 02.

Tyre Reviews conducted a comparison using a new Honda Civic SI on both roads and tracks. Fitment Industry provided twelve sets of wheels for back-to-back testing. The goal was to evaluate both sets of tires in identical conditions both objectively and subjectively.

According to Tyre Reviews, there was no clear winner on the road. The Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S had distinct advantages that balanced each other out. Overall, it was difficult to choose a definitive winner.

On the track, the competition was still quite close. Tyre Reviews was impressed with the Continental tires, noting their responsiveness in initial turn-in and their excellent performance in high temperatures and wear. They didn’t have as much time with the Michelin tires but found the Pilot Sport 4S to be more responsive in mid-corner and exit transitions, particularly when paired with the Honda Civic SI’s locking differential.

Ultimately, the choice between these tires depends on what is most important to the driver. If price is a significant factor, the Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 is the clear choice. However, brand preference and personal preference in terms of feel and performance in specific driving conditions will ultimately determine the best tire for each individual.