Tires MICHELIN or NITTO
For me it’s Michelin only; it’s the only tire where I can tell a difference between other tires
I always do Michelin Pilot Sport 4S.
My previous set were the Bridgestone Blizzaks. Now, I'm using a set of Michelin X-Ice. I've driven around the city and as far as Whistler/Big White (I used to go Cypress 3-4 times a week too during the winter). Blizzaks were a beast in heavy snow. But I think for what you're looking for, I would just go with the X-Ice. They're really quiet and the ride is really comfortable.
Nitto makes a good snow tire also. I had the SN-2 on my Tiguan, and wished the SN-3 was available in the US... which I would immediately buy if given the opportunity.
Among the low-cost good ones; Vredestein. Now I stick to Michelin (bought various X-Ice2/3/PA3) as I like that they won't feel like winter tires.
I have Michelin Ice-Xes on my GTI and they do a great job.
Just got Cross Climate 2’s from Costco yesterday. I put about 60 miles on today and I love them! Great smooth ride and I feel like they really grip the road.
Never cheap out on tires. I just ordered Pilot Aplin Pa4's on the stock size for my turbo they were $266 i believe on PMCtire.com (which I find to be the best online tire shop here in Canada. Free shipping!). You get what you pay for generally for tires.
Personally, I would not get the CrossClimates if you are in Florida. They are like a hybrid winter tire with the snowflake and would probably be great in the rain but might wear quickly down there. I put a set (the car version) on our Corolla before we sent it to our kid up north and they were okay but felt a little "clompy" and loud over bumps.
Stay away from American made tires, it might sound crazy to hear but it's true. Michelin, Goodyear, MasterCraft, Cooper, they aren't worth the hassle the compound is much too soft.
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