Does anyone have a good idea which tire has the best combination of ware and winter use. My original Conti's have been good but the dealer recommends michelins and Volvo has changed to Pirelli on the new XC's. So which is best and why?

I use Michelin MXV4's all year and have put on Continental snow tires during two different winters. Conti snow tires were great in the snow, but were somewhat loud and not quite as firm as the Michelins when it came to dry road conditions.

I'm very happy with the wear of the Michelins and the the handling qualities. I would buy them again and consider them an excellent compromise in lieu of a pure snow tire on ice and snow.

I've found Pirelli's to be very soft and somewhat noisy.

Just my opinion.

I have owned Michelins for years, but now installed Bridgestone re-950. These are much better than the Michelins in all weather, great handling and quiet.

Wills
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98 R Wagon, all kinds of goodies 94 854 Sedan some goodies 92 740 Rag Wag

Thanks Wills. How are the Bridgestone's in snow? I live in Toronto where there is usually little winter snow but do go North into snow country three or four times a winter. My Conti's are fine in snow but I don't want to step down in this regard. Thanks Tom

They are great in snow, I drove them up Mount Rose Highway during our first storm, was fun!

See?

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98 R Wagon, all kinds of goodies 94 854 Sedan some goodies 92 740 Rag Wag