Pirelli P Zero PZ4

Name: Pirelli P Zero PZ4
Brand: Pirelli
Rating: 3.7 (84 reviews)

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The Pirelli P Zero PZ4 is a premium max-performance summer tyre aimed at drivers who prioritise sharp handling and high levels of grip. It stands out for its dry-road traction, precise steering and reassuring stability at speed, with many OEM-tuned versions praised for their balance and feedback. In the wet it can be genuinely strong in cornering and general handling, but confidence is more variable in standing water and colder conditions. It delivers an engaging, sporty feel, but longevity and efficiency are clear trade-offs.

8.5

Tyre Reviews Score Based on Professional Tests & User Reviews

High Confidence View Breakdown

Dry Grip

87%

Wet Grip

76%

Road Feedback

82%

Handling

81%

Wear

57%

Comfort

68%

Buy again

62%

Expected Mileage 17,569 miles High Confidence

84 Reviews

73% Average

754,892 miles driven

31 Tests (avg: 5^th)

Parameter	Value	Description
`safety_weight`	0.7	Weight multiplier for safety-related metrics
`performance_weight`	0.55	Weight multiplier for performance metrics
`comfort_weight`	0.4	Weight multiplier for comfort metrics
`value_weight`	0.45	Weight multiplier for value-for-money metrics
`user_reviews_weight`	0.15	How much user reviews contribute to the final score
`test_data_weight`	0.8	How much professional test data contributes to the final score
`consistency_weight`	0.05	How much score consistency contributes to the final score
`recency_decay_rate`	0.95	Rate at which older test results lose influence (higher = slower decay)
`min_test_count`	1	Minimum number of professional tests required
`min_review_count`	5	Minimum number of user reviews required
`score_version`	1.8	Current version of the scoring algorithm
`score_normalization_factor`	1.1	Factor used to normalize raw scores to the 0-10 scale
`confidence_factor_weight`	0.2	How much data confidence affects the final score
`position_penalty_weight`	0.2	Penalty applied for poor test positions
`gap_penalty_threshold`	8	Score gap (%) that triggers additional penalties
`min_metrics_count`	2	Minimum number of test metrics needed per test
`limited_data_threshold`	2	Number of tests below which data is considered limited
`single_test_penalty`	0.1	Score multiplier when only one test is available
`critical_metric_penalty`	0.7	Penalty for poor performance on critical safety metrics
`critical_metric_threshold`	70	Score below which a critical metric penalty applies
`position_exponential_factor`	1.2	Exponent used to amplify position-based scoring
`position_exponential_threshold`	0.9	Position percentile below which exponential scoring applies
`gap_multiplier_critical`	3	Multiplier for critical gap penalties
`max_category_weight`	2	Maximum weight any single category can have
`max_score_limited_data`	9.5	Score cap when data is limited
`bayesian_prior_weight`	1.5	Weight of the Bayesian prior in smoothing
`bayesian_prior_score`	7	Prior score used for Bayesian smoothing
`evidence_test_multiplier`	1.9	Multiplier for test evidence in confidence calculation
`evidence_metric_divisor`	3	Divisor for metric count in evidence calculation
`evidence_review_divisor`	10	Divisor for review count in evidence calculation

Test	Publication	Date	Size	Position	Metrics
2025 Sports Cars Tyre Test	Auto Bild Sportscars	2025	245/35 R19	3/8	9 metrics
2025 Sport Auto UUHP Tyre Test	Sport Auto	2025	285/30 R20	4/4	8 metrics
2025 Auto Bild Summer Performance Tyre Test	Auto Bild	2025	225/40 R18	14/21	12 metrics
2025 AZ Summer Tyre Test	Auto Zeitung	2025	225/45 R18	5/10	12 metrics
2025 Summer Tyre Test Shootout	Auto Bild	2025	225/40 R18	20/52	2 metrics
2024 EVO Summer Tyre Test	EVO	2024	235/35 R19	6/7	10 metrics
2023 Sport Auto UHP Tyre Test	Sport Auto	2023	225/40 R18	5/11	10 metrics
2023 AutoBild UHP Summer Tyre Test	Auto Bild	2023	225/45 R18	11/21	11 metrics
2023 AZ UHP Summer Tyre Test	Auto Zeitung	2023	235/35 R19	3/10	9 metrics
2023 AutoBild Sports Car Summer Tyre Test	Auto Bild Sportscars	2023	225/40 R18	3/13	10 metrics
2023 Summer Tyre Market Overview	Auto Bild	2023	225/45 R18	3/48	2 metrics
2023 ACE / Gute Fahrt UHP Summer Tyre Test	ACE	2023	235/35 R19	2/7	0 metrics
2022 Sport Auto UHP, UUHP and Semi Slick Tyre Test	Sport Auto	2022	235/35 R19	3/10	10 metrics
2021 EVO Summer Tyre Test	EVO	2021	225/40 R18	1/9	10 metrics
Road Tyres vs Track Tyres vs Slick Tyres	Tyre Reviews	2021	245/40 R18	3/3	1 metrics
2021 Tyre Reviews UHP Summer Tyre Test	Tyre Reviews	2021	225/40 R18	4/14	9 metrics
2021 Auto Bild 19 inch Summer Tyre Test	Auto Bild Sportscars	2021	235/35 R19	4/15	9 metrics
2021 Auto Zeitung Summer UHP Tyre Test	Auto Zeitung	2021	225/40 R18	3/10	11 metrics
2020 EVO UHP Summer Tyre Test	EVO	2020	235/35 R19	3/7	11 metrics
2020 AMS 18 Inch Summer Tyre Test	Auto Motor Und Sport	2020	225/45 R18	4/11	11 metrics
2020 ADAC 18 Inch Summer Tyre Test	ADAC	2020	225/40 R18	9/16	1 metrics
2019 EVO Summer Tyre Test	EVO	2019	225/40 R18	1/7	9 metrics
2019 Auto Bild Sports Car Tyre Test	Auto Bild Sportscars	2019	245/45 R18	1/11	9 metrics
2019 Gute Fahrt Summer 18 Inch Tyre Test	Gute Fahrt	2019	225/40 R18	7/12	4 metrics
2018 AMS Summer UHP Tyre Test	Auto Motor Und Sport	2018	225/45 R17	4/11	9 metrics
2017 Car and Driver UHP Tyre Test	Car and Driver	2017	245/40 R18	3/5	5 metrics
2017 Motor Mag UHP Tyre Test		2017	235/35 R19	3/9	3 metrics
2017 EVO Summer Tyre Test	EVO	2017	225/40 R18	2/9	4 metrics
2017 Sport Auto UHP and Track Day Test	Sport Auto	2017	225/40 R18	5/10	4 metrics
2017 AMS Summer UHP Tyre Test	Auto Motor Und Sport	2017	245/45 R18	2/10	4 metrics
2017 Auto Bild Sports Cars Tyre Test	Auto Bild Sportscars	2017	235/35 R19	6/9	4 metrics

In Depth Tyre Comparisons

View More Comparisons

Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S vs Pirelli P Zero PZ4

Michelin Pilot Sport 5 vs Pirelli P Zero PZ4

Continental SportContact 7 vs Pirelli P Zero PZ4

All Tests

View Test Results

Tests

5^th

Average

1^st

Best

20^th

Worst

Latest Tyre Test Results

2025 Summer Tyre Test Shootout

225/40 R18 • 2025

20^th/52

2025 AZ Summer Tyre Test

225/45 R18 • 2025

5^th/10

The Pirelli demonstrates excellent dry handling with sharp steering response and good braking performance. It feels balanced and neutral but with slightly less comfort than ideal. In wet conditions, it delivers good overall grip despite falling somewhat behind the class leaders in braking. The tyre provides fine feedback and neutral balance even in challenging wet conditions. While Pirelli has improved the P Zero's efficiency, its higher wear rate and shorter lifespan make it less economical over time. This fourth-generation model shows its age against newer designs but still delivers engaging handling for enthusiasts willing to accept its shorter life and higher long-term costs.

2025 Auto Bild Summer Performance Tyre Test

225/40 R18 • 2025

14^th/21

The Pirelli P Zero PZ4 AO (Audi OE version which means it shouldn't have really been in this test) offered good driving dynamics with short braking distances and secure handling on dry surfaces, showing its sporty heritage. However, it disappointed somewhat in wet conditions with less grip and weaker aquaplaning performance than expected from a premium tyre, especially considering its high price of €448. Its significantly restricted mileage of just 28,120 kilometers and high purchase price resulted in the poorest cost performance in the test at €15.93 per 1000 kilometers. Despite these limitations, its dry performance and brand reputation earned it a "satisfactory" rating.

Alternative Tyres

Continental SportContact 7

9.8/10

Pirelli P Zero PZ5

9.6/10

Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6

9.5/10

Michelin Pilot Sport 5

9.4/10

Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S

9.2/10

Bridgestone Potenza Sport

9.0/10

Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperSport

8.7/10

Falken Azenis FK520

8.4/10

Bridgestone Potenza Sport Evo

Show All Summer Max Performance tyres

Questions and Answers for the Pirelli P Zero PZ4

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October 9, 2019

I find there is a lot of information on Continental, Goodyear and Michelin, but not as much on Pirelli. My understanding is that the P Zero PZ4 goes up against the Continental Premium Contact 6, Goodyear F1 Asymmetric 5, and Michelin PS4. Recent tests fare the PZ4 well, although the general opinion on the internet is that Pirellis are to be avoided. However sometimes tests include higher performance variants such as the ExtremeContact, Sport Contact 6, F1 Poleposition or PS4S. At the same time the Premium Contact 6 in smaller sizes goes against Premium Touring tyres. I guess I am just confused by the classification. What is Pirelli take on these higher performance tyres (PS4S, PSS, Sport Contact 6, ExtremeContact, F1 Poleposition) ? P Zero Corsa? A video inclusive of these tyres would be interesting to compare the PZ4. Thanks

The PZ4 is intended to compete with the likes of the PS4S and CSC6. It works very well in OE fitment especially in the larger sizes, but the aftermarket versions were quite soft on the sidewall initially. This might have been updated recently as it's started to test a lot better more recently.

December 27, 2022

Hello! I’m looking to replace the tyres on my 2006 E85 Z4M. It’s currently outfitted with Continental SportContact5 in the front and Continental SportContact in the rear. These last ones are pretty old, which is why I want to fit the car with a new set. Question is: which ones? I’m running the OEM 225/45/18 and 255/40/18 on the car. It’s only used as a fun/weekend car and is not driven during winter or in the rain if we can avoid it. in this size, I have the feeling there is not as much choice as for bigger wheels. My shortlist consists of Bridgestone Potenza Sport, Pirelli PZ4 Sports Car and Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport. The car is not used on track, only for roadtrips, fun drives on public roads and cruising. Max mileage per year is 5000 kilometers. From this point of view, what would you recommend for us? Thanks a lot!

All good options! I'm a big fan of the F1 SuperSport but it's perhaps not the most rounded tyre as it gives up a bit in the wet. The Bridgestone is a great fun tyre but the wear seems to be really high. The PZ4 is very well rounded! As the Z4M is a great chassis I'd probably fit the Goodyear!

January 6, 2023

Hi,

Love the site. I’ve a new UK M5 and I read online that I’ve “lost the tyre lottery” by finding I have Pirelli P Zero PZ4’s fitted as opposed to the Michelin PS4.

Both are going to be OE versions - I can’t find a proper review of the two.

If you have time I’d really appreciate your thoughts - should I stick with the Pirelli’s or is the difference that much that I should stomach the cost of swapping out for Michelins? Do you have thoughts on the key differences?

The car won’t be tracked, wear isn’t that important but I do enjoy the performance of the car and want to be secure on the knowledge that I won’t find out the hard way that I have the wrong tyre.

Thank you,

Greg

There are tests with the PZ4 and PS4S in on the site, such as here. In aftermarket there is generally a small difference where the PS4S has the advantage, but it's nothing worth getting upset about. As far as I'm aware, no one has actually back to back tested the OE versions of the PZ4 and PS4S however if BMW signed them both off the OE program, they should have similar levels of performance.

Michelin certainly make some of the best tyres in the world, but the internet seems to put them on a pedestal. If I was in your position, I would run the PZ4 until they're worn out, change to the PS4S and see how you feel about them. Just remember there will be difference in performances between a worn tyre and new.

October 15, 2023

Hi, I need to change my summer tires on my 2019 C class and on my shortlist are these PZ4 and the Goodyear f1 asymmetric 6, the only thing is that the PZ4 are OEM - MO while goodyears are not what would you think is the better option ? would the pz4 oem be better than the retail goodyears 6 ?

It really depends what Mercedes tuned for, usually the OE versions have lower rolling resistance at the expense of wet grip which makes the aftermarket versions a more rounded product, however the OE version will likely be slightly better tuned for the C classes weight and power balance.

June 17, 2025

Hi,
I'm looking at tyres for my Clio 4 RS.
1) PZ4 runflat 205/40R18.
2) Michelin PS4S 225/40/R18. [AU$400 more on a set of 4 vs PZ4]

i've run both sizes in the past - Michelin PSS - No issues. At SMSP, what i gain in grip/traction in the 225 i loose in top speed compared to 205 (rotational inertia, resistance) - i.e. minimal impact on lap time or fun.
My use case is 2 or so track days per year. Otherwise it is a second car for occasional city runabout doing under 4000km a year.
Question: Is the PS4S worth that much more money? Will run-flat hurt the PZ4 performance that much?
Side point - i have a second set of wheels on which i will eventually throw 205/40R17 for more track focus (AR1, A052 or similar). That said I like swapping out wheels half way through a track day (and have done that in the past) so I want the 18's to be strong on track without major sacrifice to wet braking.

A runflat product is not ideal on the road for a car without the suspension developed for a runflat tyre. If you're willing to switch to 225/40 R18 something like the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5/6 will cost less than the Michelin and be just as good on road / light track.

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Review Summary

Based on 73 user reviews

Drivers largely find the Pirelli P Zero PZ4 outstanding in dry grip, steering precision, and high-speed stability, with several OEM-tuned versions (e.g., Audi, Mercedes, Porsche) praised for balance and feedback. However, many report fast tread wear and reduced performance/noise increase as they wear, and wet performance is mixed-good when warm/light rain but with notably weak aquaplaning resistance and lower confidence in cold/wet. Comfort and noise are generally acceptable to good when new, with some runflat/spec variants harsher. Overall, the PZ4 delivers sporty precision and grip but trades off longevity and wet confidence.

Strengths

Dry grip
Steering response/feedback
High-speed stability
Braking performance (dry)
Ride comfort/noise when new

Areas for Improvement

High wear/short tread life
Weak aquaplaning resistance
Wet grip confidence drops when cold or worn
Increased noise and performance drop as they wear

Top 3 Pirelli P Zero PZ4 Reviews

Given 71% while driving a Audi rs3 (265/30 R19) on a combination of roads for 15,000 spirited miles

In July 2023 I received my new Audi RS 3, fitted with Pirelli PZ 4 tires in size 265/30 ZR 19 at the front and 245/35 ZR 19 at the rear.
When I changed my tires from summer to winter in November 2024 and cleaned them, I noticed that the right front tire and the left rear tire each had a dent several centimeters in diameter on the outer sidewall. I've driven approximately 8,000 km on these tires and am absolutely certain that there was no external influence that could have caused such damage, neither hitting or driving over a curb nor driving through a large pothole. The rim and tire surface are undamaged in the affected areas.
I contacted my Audi dealer, where I bought the car, and asked him to contact Pirelli to report this damage.
I hoped for a generous arrangement, I researched in various forums that
There have been tire blowouts at high speeds here before. Thankfully, this wasn't the case for me.
Pirelli simply referred to damage caused by driving on the curb and showed no accommodating attitude.

Ask a question | Helpful 974

March 26, 2025

Given 51% while driving a BMW M3 (275/35 R19) on a combination of roads for 17 average miles

These came stock on my BMW M3

I managed 28k km on them

When new, the tyres were decent, after 15k km, the tyres became noisy and grip became poor

After 28k km, there were cracks on the tyres and require replacement

Very disappointing wear

Ask a question | Helpful 798

June 10, 2025

Given 49% while driving a BMW M2 Competition (280/35 R20) on mostly country roads for 8,000 average miles

Dire. Even worse than the regular Pirelli Zeros, which were acceptable until they wore down to near the limit. These are the same, they're dangerous even with a few extra mm of tyre tread above the legal limit. The one saving grace for the old Pirelli Zeros was that they weren't that pricey for a 'premium' tyre, but that's gone out the window for these PZ4s as they're dearer than Contis. I am so glad to be getting rid of them, it seems to me that they've taken all the worst points of the old PZ1s and just made these wear down even quicker, and with a higher price. Awful tyre. Switching to either SportContact 7 or Eagle F1s, both great tyres.

Ask a question | Helpful 958

February 14, 2025

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Latest Pirelli P Zero PZ4 Reviews

Initial Impressions Review

Given 73% while driving a Mercedes Benz EQB 350 (235/45 R20) on for 20,000 miles

EQB 350 came with Pirelli P Zero PZ4 MO from factory, and have generally been an ok tyre. They excel in dry, above 12c+ conditions with incredible grip, in the wet I'd rate them as very good. However, they disappoint when temperatures fall below 10c, and even with 4MATIC it's fairly easy to break traction on damp roads. On this basis, they do not feel like a suitable tyre for the UK.

Will be replacing these tyres with Continental AllSeasonContact 2 in order to improve all-weather grip at the cost of outright summer performance and handling.

Ask a question | Helpful 15

February 5, 2026

Initial Impressions Review

Given 69% while driving a (235/35 R19) on for 10,000 miles

Stock tires on my Focus ST. Good comfort for a sport tire and noise levels were also good. The grip was exceptional until they dropped below 3mm tread. Then, the grip levels progressively dropped but still the tire was informative, so there was no sudden grip loss. The feedback from is also really nice as they felt direct to the steering input. The worst part is for sure the durability as these tyres are 3 years old and roughly 15k kilometers old and are at 2mm at the front and 3mm at the back and there are a few major cracks on the sidewalls. My driving style is pretty average and the tyres haven't been used on track.

Ask a question | Helpful 32

February 4, 2026

Check out how the BEST all seasons tyres perform against premium summer and winter tyres!

Given 83% while driving a BMW X3m (265/45 R20) on mostly motorways for 10,000 spirited miles

Well i got these on my x3m at 500hp it puts the power to all but most the rear. They wear very quickly in the back and virtually not at all in the front and I am a very spirited fast driver.
But the steering response is second to none, combined with a proper M vehicle the steering is tight and crisp with zero sideflex or body roll delayed via the sidewall.
So you have to pay to play so accept the quick wear in the back for the excellent performance.

Ask a question | Helpful 138

November 22, 2025

Given 97% while driving a BMW M135i X Drive (235/45 R19) on a combination of roads for 3,000 spirited miles

I’ve always purchased Goodyear and Michelin on the cars I’ve owned, so I thought I’d give Pirelli P Zeros a go on my Beemer M135iX. First impressions is the tyres have transformed the cars handling in dry and wet conditions for the better, they look great on my car too.

I’ve done about 3000 miles since fitting, mostly on country lanes and motorways, the wear seems to be good.

Ask a question | Helpful 193

November 5, 2025

Given 59% while driving a MINI Cooper S (205/40 R18) on a combination of roads for 15,000 spirited miles

They handle ok but are like Rocks, I can't do run flat tyres. Also they started bulging after 20,000 km =( not worth it!

Ask a question | Helpful 228

September 26, 2025

Given 54% while driving a BMW i4 edrive35 (255/40 R18) on mostly town for 24,000 easy going miles

Original equipped Pirelli Pzero 4 * on BMW i4, tire performance is very good in the dry, but drops drastically if there is slightly rain. Tire slip when

Ask a question | Helpful 297

September 21, 2025

Given 61% while driving a Mercedes Benz CLA 250 4 matic (235/35 R19) on a combination of roads for 15,000 average miles

They were pretty comfortable for a performance tyre. Comparing them to Bridgestone Potenza Sports. Sidewalls were a tad softer and bump absorption is better. My main gripe with them is that they wear pretty fast, got less than 20,000km from them.

Ask a question | Helpful 485

August 31, 2025

Given 76% while driving a Hyundai i20N (215/40 R18) on mostly town for 4,500 spirited miles

These tyres can factory fitted to my I20N.
The front tyres lasted approximately 4500 miles. Not the best but they are classed as a soft compound. Replaced like for like. They have just released the PZ5.

Ask a question | Helpful 563

August 17, 2025

Given 59% while driving a BMW X3 2.0d Sport (275/35 R20) on mostly country roads for 15,500 average miles

I installed the tyres as a BMW * product. Really need some heat in them in order to perform. Very good grip limits on dry, not that great on wet as advertized in comparison to similar series products from others (PS4s / GY ASSY6). Keep performing decently even after 25k km. Worst part of the experience is the high wear rate where on 25k km they are down to below 3mm of tread depth and in comparison the the very high purchase price they come out as very expensive to use. Will go for another option on the next change.

Ask a question | Helpful 777

March 27, 2025

Given 20% while driving a BMW X5 (315/30 R22) on a combination of roads for 10,000 easy going miles

Worst tires I have ever purchased. The original Continental tires went almost 37,000 miles while these only managed 10,000.

Ask a question | Helpful 854

February 17, 2025

Given 47% while driving a Hyundai i20N (215/40 R18) on mostly motorways for 3,300 average miles

Not sure what Hyundai were thinking making these "Designed for Hyundai" OEM fit. They are harsh and bumpy without extra special handling and feedback so not worth the trade-off imho. They bump and skip on hard take offs even in the dry in a straight line. When lots of turn/close to lock even at 1-2mph they judder and skip (worse when cold) and I've never had a car or tyre that's done this before in my 30 years of driving.

Now on to the wear... just over 3000 miles and the fronts are down to about 3-4mm already. In contrast I've had Michelin CCs on my last two cars (a 130bhp Duster and a 200bhp Astra) that both looked much better with 15-20k miles on them. I know the i20N has 200bhp with an LSD but I've not been driving super hard yet as I get used to the car and that's also at least 50% motorway miles. I could almost understand that wear rate if they were phenomenal tyres but they just aren't so no way I'm buying them again to replace the OEMs and am already looking for new tyres.

Ask a question | Helpful 966

January 19, 2025

Given 38% while driving a Audi S3 (235/35 R19) on mostly town for 15,000 average miles

I bought 4 brand new Pzero and put them on my 2017 S3, I can assure you that those tyres are dangerous, I felt it from day one. Specially when cold.
Traction is poor on both wet and dry. I don't recommend those tyres and sure will not buy again.

Ask a question | Helpful 920

December 19, 2024

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Pirelli P Zero PZ4