Michelin Pilot Sport 3
Firm has widened focus on fuel economy to produce a top buy
There has been a revolution at Michelin, as the firm seems to have changed the key factors it builds into its tyres.
Fuel economy used to be a top priority, with wet grip down the list, but the Pilot Sport 3 follows a more balanced approach. It’s still good, if no longer always the best on fuel consumption, and now this is combined with a strong wet road showing.
It was brilliant in our aquaplaning tests, just in front of the Pirelli, even after our test weighting lessened the impact of its superb showing on the curved aquaplaning result and ninth place on the wet circle.
Traction was excellent on the wet circuit, although the rear of the Golf moved around more than with most rivals; this could help lap times, yet meant a demanding drive.
The balance was restored on dry tarmac, but grip dropped away early, and it required more steering lock. Plus, it propped up the dry braking table, nearly two metres behind the winning Continental. Add a poor noise result, and it has to settle for second.
Our verdict
Change in performance targets has worked, with firm delivering a better all-round tyre.
| On test… | Score | Ranking |
| Wet braking | 91.3% | 4th |
| Wet handling | 98.8% | =3rd |
| Wet cornering | 96.4% | 9th |
| Straight aquaplaning | 99.8% | 2nd |
| Curved aquaplaning | 100% | 1st |
| Dry braking | 92.2% | 10th |
| Dry handling | 99% | 5th |
| Rolling resistance | 93.4% | 6th |
| Cabin noise | 98.2% | =10th |
| Overall | 99.6% | 2nd |
Contact
Michelin: http://www.michelin.co.uk/
