I will make a case for Michelin Pilot Super Sports.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires....um=145YR7PSSXL

I have about 3K miles on mine now. They are one of, if not THE top tire in the Summer Performance tire category. They'll be **** in the snow, but if it is dry or rainy/wet, these things are the best.

I went with 215's because at the time I purchased them, they didn't make a 205. Now it looks like they have a 205, but for some reason Tirerack is charging $40/tire more for the 205 vs the 215. The 215 looks great on my clubbie though. I actually purchased mine at Costco because they were only marginally more expensive than TireRack and I didn't have to pay shipping. Plus my membership is also my road hazard warranty, so I "technically" didn't have to pay extra per tire for that and the warranty is good through the life of the tire (and my membership).

I was coming off my run-flats which were bare, so realistically ANY tire would have made a difference in my case. But if you read the reviews and even a post somewhere here in the forums from a TireRack rep, these tires are in a whole different league. So if you don't need AS tires, I would HIGHLY recommend the Pilot Super Sports.

-Z

 

Just want to add something here. For those of you who are wanting to rotate your tires, there is a solution if the shop will not do it. Get out your jack and your tire tool and do it yourself. As long as you don't drive like a fool in the rain your tires will be fine. Most people don't drive hard enough to have the rear end step out on them anyway. If you don't think you can do it yourself, just invite 1 of your mechanically inclined friends over and have him help you out. It will save you some money and you get to know your car just a little better.

 

Here is another solution for Tire Rotation, just buy your tires from Discount Tire and they come automatically with a FREE Lifetime rotation.
Just wanted to put my 2 cents in the conversation.

 

I think before purchasing new cars you will have to consult with a car dealer and a good tire installer, because they knows what works and what fits best.