RKA

I've already scoured tirerack and nothing interesting came up that is any better on ice than the high perf winter rubber. Nokian makes the R's in that size (albeit very pricey). Not interested in the WRG2's.

Audi Junkie

When they are half-worn, they will be a gems. If you get 18" snows get something that will work as intermediate "all-season" duty, because they will be uselss in snow or for any normal driving. I have HR-rated Hankook W300s. I can use them all year after they get worn down past usefull snow tread.

RKA

People pay good money for half worn snow tires, why should I continue to use them?

The hankooks are similar in nature to the 3D's and LM25's. I want something with a little more siping and softer rubber to deal with ice. The decision to go with 18's has already been made...side wall is tall enough to resemble the 17" combo I ran on my S4. I'm not looking to cross mountain passes with these things...just want good traction when it gets slippery out.

jprice@CPS

Actually go with 16s if you can :-) (i.e. fit over brakes)

RKA

Nope...wheels are 8.5 wide. Don't want to stretch a 225 onto that wheel.

jprice@CPS

Most 225/40/18 are rated for 7.5" - 9" wheel width. You're fine on 225/40/18.

RKA

I'm sure they'll be okay for most of the stuff I encounter, but having been spoiled by various Nokians over the last 6 years, I know I'll be a little disappointed on the slippery stuff. At a $300 savings vs. the Noks, I couldn't bring myself to buy Noks this time.

jprice@CPS

You must have some monster brakes.

RKA

We must plan ahead!

Audi Junkie

My best winter quattro set-up was 205/65-15.