Michelin Primacy MXM4 vs MXV4: A Quick Comparison

Grand touring tires are expected to deliver competent wet and dry handling and all-season capability. That is why we decided to review the Michelin Primacy MXM4 vs MXV4 to see how these grand touring tires actually perform on the road.

Both tires are equipped with the same features except for the Helio compound. Even though the Michelin Primacy MXM4 was the first Michelin tire to use sunflower oil, surprisingly, it wasn’t enough to conquer the wet roads.

Interestingly, Michelin’s Primacy MXV4 came out stronger and more dependable in wet and dry conditions with a higher level of comfort, road silence, and longevity.

Factors
Dry	Above average	Winner
Wet	Equal, dependable	Equal, reliable
Noise	Noisy	Quiet
Snow and Ice	Poor in light snow	Usable in light snow
Price	Cheaper	Expensive
Mileage Warranty	Lower, wears out fast	Winner, more durable

What Are They?

1. Michelin Primacy MXM4

Michelin Primacy MXM4 is a grand touring all season tire released in 2010 with a purported shorter stopping distance of up to 19 ft. This tire fits luxury vehicles in 12 sizes, ranging from 16 to 19 inch wheels.

It is equipped with the following features:

Some sizes of this luxury touring tire are branded with “Green X” technology for lower environmental impact.

2. Michelin Primacy MXV4

Michelin Primacy MXV4 is a grand touring all season tire introduced over a decade ago for coupes, sedans, family minivans, and crossovers. Hence, this luxury touring tire has older features such as:

Differences

In this section, we’ll break down the strengths and weaknesses of the two touring tires. Let’s get this Michelin MXM4 vs MXV4 tire comparison rolling.

1. Specifications

Both tires have the same ratings in traction and heat tolerance and maximum load capacity.

The Michelin MXV4 has an edge over the MXM4 in terms of mileage warranty, while the latter has a higher speed rating.

2. Warranties

Both tires have warranty support called the Michelin Promise Plan, which includes a manufacturer’s treadwear limited warranty, a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, and road assistance for 3 years. The MXV4 has a limited warranty of 60,000 miles.

Meanwhile, the MXM4 has a shorter tread life than the MXV4 and wears out faster as well. It rides well between 33,000 to 36,000 miles and is worn down by 40,000 miles, thus not reaching its mileage promise of 55,000 miles.

In contrast, the MXV4 has low wear and rolling resistance, so it reaches the miles indicated. Some experienced driving it up to 70,000 miles.

3. Reviews

Both tires are good at preventing hydroplaning and delivering wet traction. However, those who used Michelin Primacy MXV4 found that one should be cautious in accelerating too hard or speeding up after a brake under rain. Otherwise, there would be spinning problems.

The MXM4 has a sporty vibe, but it has a tendency to skid in the rain when driven at higher speeds on the freeway. It understeers on wet surfaces.

When it comes to the dry performance of the MXV4 vs MXM4, both deliver superb cornering stability, dry traction, and steering response.

But the MXV4 has a slight edge in traction.

Michelin MXV4 all-season tires have higher ratings in ride quality and road noise. They have incredible grip in the rain, so driving feels secured, smooth, and comfortable. The tires are noiseless.

On the other hand, the MXM4 is noisy and screams during high-speed sharp curves. You can also feel this discomfort with the Michelin Primacy MXM4 run flat option.

Based on Tire Rack Michelin Primacy MXV4 has better traction in light snow conditions than MXM4. The latter slides in snow even at low speeds.

Meanwhile, the MXV4 is usable in unpacked snow. Its soft compound cannot tackle thick ice, though.

Since these two tires are not snow-rated, it is better to replace them with dedicated winter tires to handle severe winter conditions.

MXM4 tires are cheaper than Michelin Primacy MXV4 Discount tire by $18.

The price of the Michelin Primacy MXM4 ranges from $176-$362, while the Michelin Primacy MXV4 is sold at $194-$249.

Which is Better?

Suffice it to say, the MXV4 has an edge in dry performance, snow, and comfort. However, the MXM4 is by no means a horrible option. It can run well on wet and dry surfaces and is certainly above average.

Pros and cons

Conclusion

Even if Michelin’s Primacy MXM4 is cheaper than the MXV4, this Michelin Primacy MXM4 vs MXV4 comparison showed that it is more reasonable to rely on the MXV4 year-round.

If this review piqued your curiosity regarding the MXV4, you can also check out another fuel-efficient tire, the Michelin MXV4 Plus.

Another comparison you may be interested in:  Michelin Primacy MXV4 vs Bridgestone Turanza Serenity Plus.