My ES100s are getting to be on their last legs (bought them used with about 35% tread left, and they've done well). They've lasted for 7K miles and about 8 AutoXs on that 35%, but its getting down there.


So I am looking at new tires. Things that are important to me are:

Gotta be decent for AutoX. Don't need (and can't afford) the BEST, but reasonable. By comparison, I find my ES100s are reasonable.

Gotta be decent in street driving and reasonable wet traction. Again, the ES100s are fine here.

Gotta be quieter than my ES100s. These things are BLOODY LOUD.

Unfortunately, I simply do not have the space for 2 sets of wheels/tires, so don't even suggest it .

I'm thinking Kumho ECSTA MX, Falken ST115, maybe even S-03s. Have heard murmurings about new Hankooks that are good?

Edit: Size is 225/45/17.

 

if s-03s are in your budget then get those. you will soon realize that "reasonable" isn't good enough after you drive on s-03s

 

How do you mean? I've never, ever, felt unsafe on my ES100s (and I did feel unsafe on the RE92s sometimes). The way I consider, tires are the only thing connecting me to the road, so they are among the most important. I'm willing to spend what I have to get good tires (the reason I didn't list a price limit), but are the S-03s really worth $100 more per tire?

 

easy: Hankook RS2

either that or the MX.

 

Sounds to me like the es100's are a wise choice with road noise being the only drawback.

I just ordered a set for my girl's jetta...should be here friday.

 

Maybe look at the Avon M500. Quieter and cheaper with decent to better grip.

 

Its enough of a drawback that I dont want them again. Its really intrusive.

 

Subys are supposed to be loud...with the boxer rumble, zero sound deadening and rattling interior you might as well have loud tires too!

btw...I have the s03's and they are awesome, but I've never tried the other tires you are thinking about.

 

Well . I have the boxer rumble, and thats nice. Its an 05, so no interior rattle yes (and any that develop will quickly be treated with felt and I have put plenty of sound deadening in the car.

It may not be a lexus, but its gotta at least equal my old focus.