I agree that you shouldn't go skimpy ontires. However, if you can get longer lasting (or just as long) tires and not pay as much, then why not? It would be foolish to assume that just because a tire says a certain brand name on it, that it is absolutely worth what they charge for it. (Is there any reason that one should pay $2.98 for a package of Nabisco Fig Newtons (now made in Mexico) when you can get a package with double the amount (store brand) made in the USA for $1.64 and they taste the same)? On to the tires...I purchased 17inch Fuzion HRi tires from Tire Rack. They were $76 each and I have put 24,000 miles on them so far. They still look almost new at this point. I am an extremely spirited driver and turn corners very harshly. I have driven them on snow and they handled just as well as the stock tires. The same goes for wet roads. I like the profile of these tires as well. In my opinion, you can't go wrong with these tires. I went with these tires based on the good reviews and I have not been disappoionted in my decision. Since they are cheaper though, if for any reason they take me off of the road, explode, fail, etc...and I am still alive, I will be sure and let everyone know to take a step back and go with those stock $175-200 tires...because, since they have such a high price, and you get what you pay for, they must be the best tires for our Mazda 6's! HA!PLEASE!

 

it not only depends on WHERE u drive
its HOW/WHAT u drive

if u live in Arizona or southern cali[8D]. id get some good reliable tires from Michelin or Pirelli
cause imo i wouldnt feel too safe going 115mph when its 115degrees out on kuhmos or Falkens (regardless of ratings). but thats just me

however if u drive in the city or at slow speeds, any tire should be fine for u.

 

It all boils down to value:a $200 tire is not 100% better than a $100 tire. You'llbe lucky if it's 50% better and you are screwing yourself 4 times because you are buying a set of 4. But that 50% may savethe car's paint and you skin. So do your research and buy the best you can afford.

 

By the way, I have 225/45-17 Pirelli Nero M+S on my V6 and I am happy.