I'll be getting new tires for my Max this summer. I have the SE with the alloy rims. If I move up to 17 inch I'd have to get new rims, right? I would rather not spend that much money on rims now (I AM in college). So if I was correct then I'm sticking with 16 inch tires. What are some good tires that I can get? I don't mind paying a little more for them. I want some well balanced ones, where I could sacrifice some in their lifetime to get good traction, but obviously nothing like racing slicks. I need tires that work on ice and snow, too. Obviously I'm looking for the best of all worlds, so I can't get too sporty (I assume)? What's a good all purpose tire, and how much can I expect to pay? Any prices or suggestions are greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.

 

yes if you have 16 inchrims you have to get 17 inch rims, isnt it obvious and you cant get the perfect tire but kumho makes a pretty good one for about 100

 

Michelin Pilot XGT-H4.

 

I've heard Michelin Pilot MXM4 are great tires--they have excellent grip of a sport tire, but yet still retains the good ride quality of a touring tire, and are all-season rated--sounds like the perfect combination to me (treadwear rating 300). They are OE in many premium sport sedans. I would have gotten these if they made them in 15" size (stock aluminum rims)--they're made in 16" and 17" sizes. They are somewhat pricy (about $130-150/each), but overall a nice package.

Alternatively, for a less expensive tire (about $95/each), the Michelin Pilot XGT H4 are great, but are more harsh than stock on rough roads, but you can definitely feel the improvement in the corners. I actually tried these out when tire shopping a few months ago, but I wanted more ride quality than performance, so I ended up with the touring Michelin MXV4 Energy Plus ($125/each).

If you have a Costco nearby (and have a membership), have them special order these tires out (or other brands) or try out what they have in stock, and you can have 30 days to try out the tires with no questions asked. If you get something else, you just pay the difference in cost. BTW, all of price quotes (except for the MXM4) are for INSTALLED tires (dismount, mount, lifetime balancing, and warranty) in my stock 215/60HR15 size from Costco, not just for the tire. Obviously, you'll be paying a little more for your 16" tires.

 

Toyo Proxes FZ4's

 

I just got Yokohama AVS Intermediates for $74 each. They kick in terms of all-out dry traction. They are very quiet during aggressive driving as well--all others I had would whine and squeal in protest. They're very good in rain, but I hear not so good in snow. And I have heard anywhere from 45,000 miles per set all the way down to NINE thousand. I'm expecting about 20K realistically. Which is fine, for how cheap they are and the edge they give. Maybe not what you're looking for, but bear in mind that ultra-high performance tires are one of the more cost-effective, valuable mods you can do. Straight-line speed is nice, but in the twisties is where you can really gain ground in a hurry. Whatever you buy, get them from tirerack.com. Best prices, guaranteed, and a very wide selection.