http://blogs.consumerreports.org/car...in-tire-r.html

In our recent new-car testing, we have seen that cars and trucks with low-rolling-resistance original equipment tires sometimes sacrifice grip. Some tire suppliers say some auto manufacturers put higher priority on low-rolling resistance over other performance criteria. In testing aftermarket all-weather tires, we have found that it's possible to get a very good performing tire with low-rolling resistance compared to other tire replacement tires. And Michelin says its upcoming line of low-rolling-resistance tires will save energy without shortening tread life or reducing grip.

However, once in their ratings, I find their commitment to helping the Consumer find quality LRR tires limited.

I am optimistic about California's rating system.

nf

 

mmr?

 

That Michelin is the one I have been talking abount the the other threads. It is a winter version of the Energy S8, which is one of the two OEM tires on the TCH (or was in '07, I heard that Toyota may switch to the Primacy MXV4 in the '08 models sometime this year becasue Michelin is phasing out the Energy line and replacing with the new Primacy one.)

They have a direct replacement for the S8 as well, but the winter ones are the ones that Europe is noticing. They are rated for severe winter service, studless snow and still have low rolling resistance.

Link =http://www.michelinman.com/tires/win...acy-alpin-pa3/

Link = http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires....macy+Alpin+PA3

Where I learned about them:

Forum = http://www.legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1473810

Results Link = http://www.oeamtc.at/refresh/framese...uebersicht.htm

and no... I don't work for Michelin or Tire Rack ... just an avid winter sports type.

 

From the blog:
The state of California is working on developing a rating for tire rolling resistance, which it plans to require tiremakers to print on the tire sidewalls starting in 2009. Meanwhile, to help consumers choose the appropriate replacement tires, the California Energy Commission is developing a complete database of all replacement tires marketed in the state. The database should be available in 2007 or 2008. Today, tires are required to have ratings printed on the sidewall for traction, tread life, and temperature.