Writing about the
Michelin Primacy HP given
67% (215-55-16-)
Driving on
mostly motorways for 10000
spirited miles
These came as OEM fit on my new 2012 Mondeo Diesel Hatchback 1.6 TDi , and i think therein lies the problem. (my frame of reference is an older Skoda Octavia wearing Conti Premium contact 2's)
the Mondeo range when specced with this tiny diesel engine, comes with sports suspension as standard. the thinking is eco eco eco , so the suspension lowers the ride height to make it more aerodynamic on the motorway - all fine, but then they fitted it with Primacy HP's.
Gahhhhh...
Dry Grip - The suspension set up helps the tyre feel the full brunt of any weight transfer, and they squeal like crazy on any corner taken above 30mph. they wash out in a VERY predictable nice way so it's enjoyable, but they do feel like you're driving on mud, triggering the electronic assists somewhat too often for my liking. Also, even for the low capacity engine, it always managed to wheelspin when trying to move off quickly, i suspect all down to the low rolling resistance compound.
Wet Grip - We had the storms over the past two weeks and the tyre has poor resistance to aquaplaning, and cornering is severely compromised.
I cant remember thinking anything either way in the snow, so i guess thery're ok on the white stuff.
MPG's - were ok i suppose, hard to compare to anything when the engine is barely run in.
Comfort - again nothing to compare against but not overly intrusive.
Buy again?
no - just swapped the fronts for Dunlop Sport Blu Response and I was impressed there was stacks of grip I'd not known before, and zero squeal when i threw the car into my favourite sweeping bend.