Tested 33 times by independent publications, the Pirelli P Zero PZ4 has taken 3 test wins with an average finish of 5th. Its strongest discipline is Wet Handling, beating 81% of the field across 24 tests; its weakest is Rolling Resistance, at 24% across 20 tests.
2025 AutoView Sports Tire Test P5 of 5
The P Zero finished fifth with 79.8 points. AutoView attributes this to a noticeable drop in Pirelli's recent production quality and notes that the new PZ5 generation is expected to arrive in Korea over the next year.
Where the Pirelli P Zero PZ4 finished in each measured discipline, across every test that measured it against at least two other tires. Field beaten is the share of the other tires it outranked in that measurement.
| Discipline | Tests | Avg finish | Field beaten | Firsts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry | ||||
| Dry Braking | 30 | P4.1 of 12.8 | 66% | 3 |
| Dry Handling | 27 | P3.8 of 10 | 62% | 5 |
| Subj. Dry Handling | 8 | P3 of 8.4 | 66% | 3 |
| Wet | ||||
| Wet Braking | 30 | P5.4 of 12.8 | 56% | 3 |
| Wet Braking - Worn | 1 | P3 of 4 | 33% | - |
| Wet Handling Strong | 24 | P2.6 of 10.6 | 81% | 8 |
| Subj. Wet Handling | 8 | P1.8 of 8.3 | 88% | 4 |
| Wet Circle | 8 | P3.1 of 11.4 | 83% | 2 |
| Straight Aqua | 20 | P7.5 of 11.1 | 36% | - |
| Curved Aquaplaning | 11 | P6 of 12 | 59% | 1 |
| Comfort | ||||
| Subj. Comfort | 9 | P4 of 9.9 | 58% | 1 |
| Subj. Noise | 1 | P3 of 7 | 67% | - |
| Noise | 17 | P5.9 of 11.1 | 57% | 2 |
| Value | ||||
| Wear | 5 | P11.8 of 14 | 27% | - |
| Value | 3 | P16.7 of 16.7 | 0% | - |
| Rolling Resistance Weak | 20 | P8 of 10.7 | 24% | - |
| Abrasion | 2 | P5.5 of 7 | 39% | - |
Overall finishing position against the tires that have most often shared a test with the Pirelli P Zero PZ4. Only tires tested alongside it at least three times are listed.
| Rival | Shared tests | Ahead | Behind | Level | Finished ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Dunlop SportMaxx RT 2
15 shared: 10 ahead, 5 behind
|
15 | 10 | 5 | - | 67% |
 Michelin Pilot Sport 4
12 shared: 4 ahead, 8 behind
|
12 | 4 | 8 | - | 33% |
 Bridgestone Potenza Sport
12 shared: 3 ahead, 9 behind
Compare with Potenza Sport |
12 | 3 | 9 | - | 25% |
 Falken Azenis FK510
11 shared: 8 ahead, 3 behind
|
11 | 8 | 3 | - | 73% |
 Maxxis Victra Sport 5
11 shared: 8 ahead, 3 behind
|
11 | 8 | 3 | - | 73% |
 Continental Premium Contact 6
11 shared: 6 ahead, 5 behind
|
11 | 6 | 5 | - | 55% |
 Continental SportContact 7
10 shared: 1 ahead, 9 behind
Compare with SportContact 7 |
10 | 1 | 9 | - | 10% |
 Nokian PowerProof
9 shared: 7 ahead, 1 behind
|
9 | 7 | 1 | 1 | 88% |
 Nexen N Fera Sport SU2
9 shared: 6 ahead, 2 behind
|
9 | 6 | 2 | 1 | 75% |
 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S
9 shared: 1 ahead, 8 behind
Compare with Pilot Sport 4 S |
9 | 1 | 8 | - | 11% |
 Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6
9 shared: 0 ahead, 7 behind
Compare with Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 |
9 | 0 | 7 | 2 | 0% |
 Falken Azenis FK520
8 shared: 7 ahead, 1 behind
Compare with Azenis FK520 |
8 | 7 | 1 | - | 88% |
 Hankook Ventus S1 evo 3
8 shared: 6 ahead, 2 behind
|
8 | 6 | 2 | - | 75% |
 Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5
8 shared: 3 ahead, 5 behind
|
8 | 3 | 5 | - | 38% |
 Giti GitiSportS2
7 shared: 6 ahead, 1 behind
|
7 | 6 | 1 | - | 86% |
 Toyo Proxes Sport
7 shared: 6 ahead, 0 behind
|
7 | 6 | 0 | 1 | 100% |
 Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3
7 shared: 5 ahead, 2 behind
|
7 | 5 | 2 | - | 71% |
 Michelin Pilot Sport 5
7 shared: 2 ahead, 4 behind
Compare with Pilot Sport 5 |
7 | 2 | 4 | 1 | 33% |
 Vredestein Ultrac Vorti
6 shared: 5 ahead, 1 behind
|
6 | 5 | 1 | - | 83% |
 Hankook Ventus S1 evo2
6 shared: 4 ahead, 2 behind
|
6 | 4 | 2 | - | 67% |
The same record for the tire it replaced and the tire that replaced it.
| Tire | Tests | Wins | Avg finish | Field beaten |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pirelli P Zero Predecessor | 36 | 5 | 4th | 68% |
| Pirelli P Zero PZ4 This tire | 33 | 3 | 5th | 56% |
| Pirelli P Zero PZ5 Successor | 6 | 2 | 3rd | 58% |
Drawn from 32 tests. Updated June 8, 2026.
Across 32 summer tests, the Pirelli P Zero PZ4 shows a clear performance-tire character: it is frequently among the quickest and best-rated options for dry and especially wet handling, often delivering top-lap-speed results and strong steering/driver-confidence impressions. This is reflected in repeated class-leading wet-handling wins (e.g., Auto Bild 2021 19", Auto Zeitung 2021, Auto Bild 2023 UHP) and several overall podiums/wins in earlier tests (e.g., EVO 2019 1/7, Auto Bild Sports Car 2019 1/11, EVO 2021 1/9).
excellent dry handling with sharp steering response and good braking performance- 2025 AZ Summer Tire Test (2025)
good driving dynamics with short braking distances and secure handling on dry surfaces- 2025 Auto Bild Summer Performance Tire Test (2025)
balanced handling in both wet and dry conditions- 2025 Sports Cars Tire Test (2025)
sharp and responsive with strong on-the-brakes performance- 2024 EVO Summer Tire Test (2024)
dynamic talents- 2023 AZ UHP Summer Tire Test (2023)
In wet conditions, it delivers good overall grip despite falling somewhat behind the class leaders in braking- 2025 AZ Summer Tire Test (2025)
strong wet subjective scores- 2024 EVO Summer Tire Test (2024)
high level of grip- 2023 AutoBild Sports Car Summer Tire Test (2023)
top ranked subjectively in the dry and wet and offering excellent grip- 2021 EVO Summer Tire Test (2021)
Dynamic handling with an excellent performance in the dry and wet, low levels of noise- 2021 Tire Reviews UHP Summer Tire Test (2021)
excellent dry handling with sharp steering response and good braking performance- 2025 AZ Summer Tire Test (2025)
precise turn-in behavior- 2025 Sports Cars Tire Test (2025)
meticulously balanced steering characteristics- 2023 AZ UHP Summer Tire Test (2023)
Very quick steering- 2023 Sport Auto UHP Tire Test (2023)
precise steering behavior- 2023 AutoBild Sports Car Summer Tire Test (2023)
excellent dry handling with sharp steering response and good braking performance- 2025 AZ Summer Tire Test (2025)
short braking distances- 2025 Auto Bild Summer Performance Tire Test (2025)
short braking distances- 2025 Sports Cars Tire Test (2025)
short wet and dry braking distances- 2023 AutoBild Sports Car Summer Tire Test (2023)
short wet and dry braking distances- 2023 AutoBild UHP Summer Tire Test (2023)
weaknesses in wet braking, with stopping distances nearly 26 feet longer than the best performer- 2025 Sport Auto UUHP Tire Test (2025)
wet braking at 86 ft all trailed the field,- 2025 AutoView Sports Tire Test (2025)
falling somewhat behind the class leaders in braking- 2025 AZ Summer Tire Test (2025)
Weak wet braking- 2023 Sport Auto UHP Tire Test (2023)
Longer braking distances in the wet- 2022 Sport Auto UHP, UUHP and Semi Slick Tire Test (2022)
weaker aquaplaning performance- 2025 Auto Bild Summer Performance Tire Test (2025)
minor weakness in the curved aquaplaning test- 2025 Sports Cars Tire Test (2025)
Average aquaplaning performance- 2021 Tire Reviews UHP Summer Tire Test (2021)
poor lateral aquaplaning- 2019 Gute Fahrt Summer 18 Inch Tire Test (2019)
relatively weak resistance to aquaplaning- 2018 AMS Summer UHP Tire Test (2018)
Increased rolling resistance- 2023 AutoBild Sports Car Summer Tire Test (2023)
increased rolling resistance- 2023 Sport Auto UHP Tire Test (2023)
Higher rolling resistance- 2021 Auto Bild 19 inch Summer Tire Test (2021)
Relatively high wear and high rolling resistance- 2020 ADAC 18 Inch Summer Tire Test (2020)
high rolling resistance- 2020 AMS 18 Inch Summer Tire Test (2020)
significantly restricted mileage of just 17,473 miles- 2025 Auto Bild Summer Performance Tire Test (2025)
higher wear rate and shorter lifespan make it less economical over time- 2025 AZ Summer Tire Test (2025)
Limited mileage- 2023 AutoBild UHP Summer Tire Test (2023)
Relatively high wear and high rolling resistance- 2020 ADAC 18 Inch Summer Tire Test (2020)
Every tester write-up on the Pirelli P Zero PZ4 (28 tests) and 84 owner reviews were tagged for the aspects they judge. Where both have spoken, this is how they line up.
Strong = top two of the field in that measurement. Weak = bottom two.
The P Zero finished fifth with 79.8 points. AutoView attributes this to a noticeable drop in Pirelli's recent production quality and notes that the new PZ5 generation is expected to arrive in Korea over the next year.
The P Zero PZ4 T0 was the strongest of the three rivals on wear, but could not match the Michelin's wet grip, and finished second on our weighting.
The Pirelli impressed with balanced handling in both wet and dry conditions. It features precise turn-in behavior, stable lateral grip, and short braking distances. The tire achieved nearly the same wet braking performance as the Continental. The P Zero PZ4 showed minor weakness in the curved aquaplaning test but otherwise performed at the highest level. It was the most expensive tire in the test at approximately €1,080 per set.
This OE-spec Pirelli P Zero PZ4 tire (marked with BMW's star symbol) showed notable weaknesses in wet braking, with stopping distances nearly 26 feet longer than the best performer. The Pirelli's harder compound, likely designed for improved durability and rolling resistance, compromised wet grip. While it offered good aquaplaning resistance and forgiving handling with pronounced understeer, it required larger steering inputs during spirited driving, making the M4 feel heavier and less responsive. The tire's indirect steering feel and limited feedback diminished much of the BMW M4's dynamic potential.
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 tire, especially considering its high price of €448. Its significantly restricted mileage of just 17,473 miles 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.
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 tire 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.
The Pirelli P Zero PZ4 finished sixth in testing, showing better performance than previous versions but still lagging behind the top performers. The tire showed strong wet subjective scores and performed adequately in dry tests. Braking performance was mixed, coming in fifth in wet braking at 8ft behind the best. In wet tests, the tire was quick but lacked steering feel, though it was sharp and responsive with strong on-the-brakes performance. The tire stood out for refinement, being one of the quietest on test, but lacked some feedback and outright steering feel compared to the leaders.
Strong when dry. Weaknesses in wet braking for the PZ4.
Once again the Pirelli P Zero, this time in the PZ4 S.C. version, can establish itself at the forefront with its dynamic talents and its meticulously balanced steering characteristics. Level on points with Goodyear.
Exemplary.
No weakness at all.Very Good.
The PZ4 is a tire that offers (almost) everything, being top ranked subjectively in the dry and wet and offering excellent grip.
As a track tire, the PZ4 is understeer primary. It has soft handling, but stable and predictable and it felt very safe and easy to drive fast. To get the most from the tire you had to be delicate with the steering inputs and throttle as the tire would break into slide quite early, generating heat. Delayed reaction from the steering but it feels about right for a road tire, as we've seen in other test is it's very similar to the Pilot Sport 4 S on track. It wouldn't be my first choice for a track tire, but also it excels in the wet unlike the other tires on test. Felt like I was losing some time mid corner and lots on corner exit where you were having to be very delicate with the throttle. The tires managed around 3 laps before being past their best, which is normal for a road tire.
The Pirelli P Zero PZ4 is a rare tire that seems to blend good grip in the dry and wet, sporty handling, low rolling resistance and good levels of comfort. IF this tire had slightly better aquaplaning resistance it would have been in the top group.
Highly Recommended.
The Pirelli PZero PZ4 has a strong balance wet handling performance, propelling it to third overall.
The ‘PZ4’ P Zero was outstanding in the wet, setting the fastest time and feeling the most connected and grippy on the wet circuit, which it backed up with strong aquaplaning performances. It lacked the steering feel and feedback of the best but was good in the dry too, setting the equal fastest lap time.
Very good - Confident summer tires with strengths on dry roads.
Recommended
There may be a slight home advantage in tire testing, but with no fewer than six top spots, the PZ4 P Zero totally dominated this test. The tire dominated in both wet and dry testing, objectively and subjectively.
Exemplary / Test Winner.
Recommended.
Pirelli’s latest P Zero—reengineered for 2016 and identified by a small PZ4 molded into the sidewall—can be driven fairly quickly, as evidenced by its dry lap time, the second fastest in the test. Doing so, however, requires focus to toe the limit and patience to delay throttle inputs slightly. Without that diligence, it becomes easy to overdrive the tire, at which point grip levels fall off rapidly—but not as detrimentally as with the Goodyear—making graceful and quick recovery difficult. Even a driver of Geswein’s caliber can’t make the P Zero more than a midpack performer in the wet, as the Pirelli’s grip takes a big hit when the water flows. The P Zero used 109 feet of pavement to stop from 50 mph in the wet, 14 feet more than the best-in-test Continental. The Pirelli also tied the Goodyear for the lowest lateral grip in the wet at 0.75 g. But it does offer commendable compliance on the road, and at $153 apiece, it’s the cheapest tire here. When we look at the test results, though, there’s a clear dividing line separating the top tier from the rest of the class. The Pirelli is on the wrong side of it.
Recommended
Recommended
Satisfactory
Owner reviews, sizes and EU label data, comparisons and the Tire Reviews score. All Pirelli tires