carsNskis
New member

1) I'm cheap
2) even though I'm cheap I want value for my monies
I wanted to keep my stock wheels for now until I find the perfect set of lightweight 18's (and since I have amazing winter rubber in the stock size they'll eventually become my winter mode wheels)
I looked around at a lot of cheap tires but I rarely trust customer reviews because people are stupid... hard to tell what their knowledge base is.
I found these: Sumitomo*HTR Z III I'm a fan of Tire Racks testing, and felt confident these would be a good fit. I had them shipped to the local DC at no charge and picked them up for $300 after taxes and fees (including road hazard certs) and had them mounted up at my Store Friday.
My drive home that night was through a torrential downpour on newly constructed, heavily grooved pavement. They cut through standing water extremely well. They held a solid line through curves and provide nice feedback.
This morning I did 20 miles through Deer Creek Canyon (twisty and fun) and the road was still damp. The cornering was excellent, even in transition from dry to wet. Grip was substantial and road noise was less than my snows (of course) and slightly less than the stock Hankooks.
Very predictable release point. They give a rumble when they come close to the limit, and transition smoothly over the limit. A slight lift of the throttle and they are right back on their line solidly.
Tracking through curves is precise, no tread squirm or shifting under load. They change direction well, solid response in switchback. They hold a line remarkably well and braking performance was confidence inspiring.
I haven't had them on long enough to have a long term report but my first impression is they are worth every penny, and exceeded my expectation.
I intend to do about 150 miles tomorrow through some amazing mountain roads following two well tuned GTI's. I'm still stock so it will be a good barometer for what i need to improve on the Sonic. I have no lack of confidence in the grip though (just power and body roll) [emoji594]
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