11-20-2010, 12:29 AM
We are far north of you, so we use winter tires. Even with an outback, the AWD doesn't help that much when braking for example. but you may not see much ice, which is when winter snow tires, really, really help. If you are going to keep it for at least 3-4 years, the cost ends up being a wash overall.
I can't comment specifically on new Nokians you are listing. My guess is they are expensive. I had some earlier version of the WRs long ago, and did like them a lot: they were reasonably credible in the snow and ice, but otherwise drove nicely. Depending on your specific needs (how bad the hills, how much highway driving, etc), either could be fine. But if you are not getting snows, you may be able to spend half as much on some other all season tire and do pretty well too.
So really no help here, sorry.
I can't comment specifically on new Nokians you are listing. My guess is they are expensive. I had some earlier version of the WRs long ago, and did like them a lot: they were reasonably credible in the snow and ice, but otherwise drove nicely. Depending on your specific needs (how bad the hills, how much highway driving, etc), either could be fine. But if you are not getting snows, you may be able to spend half as much on some other all season tire and do pretty well too.
So really no help here, sorry.