Quietest snow tire?

I'm using a spare set of Gen 2 (2008) prius alloy wheels that I kept when I sold my 2008. Anyone happen to know if the OEM lugs on my 2012 Four will work properly on the gen 2 alloy wheels? I assume yes, but still not 100% sure.

 

http://www.beyond.ca/michelin-x-ice-xi3-winter-tire-reviews/12491.html

Has The LEGENDARY Blizzak Been Defeated By The New X-ICE Michelin? Spies Put It To The Test. - AutoSpies Auto News

 

I have the Michelin X-Ice. They're quiet and have performed well for me!

 

Not sure I understand why the remote start. Doesn't that hit your fuel economy pretty hard?

 

I'm torn between the Blizzaks and the Michelin X Ice. I've never had Michelin snow tires but have put Michelins on all of my cars in the recent years, they've been great and very quiet.

 

Either tire will be excellent.

 

I just need to find another set of wheels. Trying to get some Gen II or III wheels to use as snow's and put 195/65/15's on them.

 

The Blizzaks have no warranty. And today, the $70 rebate started on Michelin on Tirerack. I think I'm going to place an order by the end of this week on the X-ice XI3, just need to find a set of wheels now!

 

Both regarding Tirerack purchase and your Quest For Rims (soon to be a movie? ), have a look at my post #20.

 

There's a set of 17" Scion TC rims with Blizzak LM-60's on them (seller says he used them for 3K miles) for sale locally or do I buy a 15" set of rims and Michelin X-ice tires off Tire rack? Price is about the same..

 

Yes. They are the same.

 

Sweet!
I ordered Michelin X-ice XI2's from Tirerack on Wed- just called them about the $70 Amex reward card- they said they mailed the docs to me on the 17th!

 

You can buy used Prius wheels for $200-300. At $70 mount and balance, after two years the rims are paid for. I'd rather not deal with the hassle of swapping tires, plus 17" snow tires will cost almost as much as my whole set of wheels and tires in a 15".

 

I can live without TPMS. I like the 17's, I feel like it gives the car a whole different look. I'm willing to take a hit in mpg for a nicer looking car. Although my averages have been pretty good. The tank I'm on now is about 53mpg 95% hwy.

 

Here's an article on the benefits of extra rims for snow tires.

Is it worth putting steel wheels on your winter tires? - The Globe and Mail

My 2 cents:

If you're set up to raise your own car (have access to a garage, floor jack and safety stands), having the snows on their own rims (typically cheaper steel) preserves your aluminum OEM rims, both from the wear and tear of twice yearly mounting, and from being out there in the salt and snow. It also allows you to detail them thoroughly. Plus no yearly expenses, and swapping is done at your convenience.

Regarding TPMS, it took me about 2 seconds to decide they weren't needed, when the Toyo mechanic asked me, during the install. Didn't regret it. Yes, they may save you from a slowly developing flat, but they're also a real money pit.