Replacement to Pirelli OEM tires

[2volvo]

Hi there,

After running for 5 years Nokian WR's, it is time to get back to all season tires (have dedicated winter tires). I did not like the Pirelli STR's. I have done some research and found that the following H-rated tires could be suitable for my 2003 XC.
1. Kuhmo Solus KH16
2. Yokohama Avid Envigor
3. Falken Ziex ZE912
4. Michelin Latitude Tour HP

Has anybody used these any of these tires for a while?
How are they in terms of handling, wet grip, noise and tread life.
If you have any other tire suggestions please let me know.
Many thanks

[Astro14]

I am big on following specifications. In this case, an HR (or better) and load range XL.

Don't think any of the mentioned ones meet those specs. I recommend surfing www.tirerack.com and seeing what they have. If you search on the car type, the options will be HR and XL...

If you go by size, then you will get everything in the 215/65R16 size...

I think the Nokian WR G2 are great tires - any thought given to them?

[Ars Gladius]

Assuming that you are using your car normally (aka not racing, overloading it, etc), you want to get tires that have a:

Load Index of 98 or greater.

Speed Rating of H* or greater.

Tire Size of 215/65 R16


* Exception is winter tires, which can be as low as 'Q', but are typically 'T' or greater.

[giorgio]

In europe the best is Michelin Latitude Tour HP , second Pirelli Skorpion STR and Yokoama geolander.
Leave Kumho !

[2volvo]

Thanks to all for your replies.
The tires I have listed have a speed rating of H (not V as the Scorpion STR has) and a load index of 98 (as the Scorpion STR). Already have Nokian WRG2 on the other Volvo and looking for (maybe) cheaper tire options (if any) especially for spring-summer-fall seasons.

[Ars Gladius]

From a safety standpoint H and V tires are essentially the same for these cars. H is 210 km/h and V is 240 km/h, both are way past the legal speed limits in Canada and not to mention the 40 km/h over limit impound law we have in Ontario.

Load Index rating is more important then whether you get H or V.

There is some opinion that the V with their stiffer sidewalls handle better, and in theory this is true, but to what noticeable extent depends on your driving style and how sensitive you are to your car. Bear in mind that with the stock 65 aspect ratio for our tires they are not "low profile" so they won't handle like a sports car, regardless of V or H rating. Remember we bought the XC70 not the V70R. ;) (Not saying we can't get the XCs closer, but that is with more mods than just tires.)

For daily driving, any of those listed will be fine.
If you drive "spirited" look for the higher performance all seasons.
If you drive "really spirited" consider looking at suspension mods, etc in addition to the tires.
If you drive "off-road" consider specific tires for that (which tend not perform as well on pavement as a 'normal' tire).

[Volvos rock]

Ive had Yokohama Avid TRZ, now available in H rating, wonderful all around tire, 60 k warrantey, but due to the savere rear alignment angle on the XC got about 32k out of them. But they handled awsome even at 2/32 tread left. I now have the Khumo Solus KH16s and they match the TRZ in handling. The Khumos now have approx 10k on them and there still between 7-9/32s left. goog luck[thumbup]

[goldxc70]

Recent article in Toronto Star by their tire specialist recommended the following for 2010 XC70 (note: 17" or 18"):

In order of choice for ride quality: Michelin Primacy MXV4 (treadwear rating 620); Goodyear ComforTred (740); Bridgestone Turanza Serenity (740); Continental ExtremeContact DWS (540) and finally General Altimax HP (440).

In order of sporty driving ability: Continental, Michelin, General, Bridgestone and Goodyear.

Here's the link if you are interested: http://www.thestar.com/wheels/article/960516--are-all-weather-tires-the-best-option-for-gta-driving

[pelagikos]

I was quite happy with the original set of Pirelli's in all regards, and they lasted nearly 60k miles. So I went into an added expense and, for the second set, got exactly same model of the tire as the original.

And they just there not right - going out of balance, wearing unevenly, etc...
Long story short, they turned into complete crap just around 30K miles.

Talk about production consistency...


Anyhow, now (the 3rd set) I am wearing inexpensive Yokohama Avid TRZ's, and I am as happy as I can be about the tires. 45k miles and counting...

[2volvo]

Many thanks to everybody for their replies.
Will wait one more week or so for futher replies before going ahead and ordering some tires.
Some people I have spoken with suggested not to buy Kumho tires.

GoldXC70, I do not believe that any of the tires you suggested are available in 215-65-16:
Michelin Primacy MXV4 (treadwear rating 620); Goodyear ComforTred (740); Bridgestone Turanza Serenity (740); Continental ExtremeContact DWS

Any comment of Falken Ziex ZE912?

[rowland]

Installed Nokian eNTYRE and am impressed with fuel consumption and road noise compared to the Scorpions.

As mentioned by others, the biggest issue with replacing the Scorpions is finding tires in the identical size of 215/65/16

[richyoung]

I tried the Kuhmos on my wife's 2005 XC70. The tread looked good, but I think the sidewalls were too weak. Car did not feel stable. I would go for the highest load rating available for the size tire.

Currently running Bridgestone RE960AS one size wider one step lower in profile (225/60-16). It is a W rated tire with 98 load rating. Still a little "floaty" for me, but it could be the struts are ready for a change at 100k miles.

[richyoung]

I too am looking for tires for my wife's XC. Haven't really been happy with any of the tires we have had on the car -- Pirelli Scorpions OEM, Kuhmo, Bridgestone RE960AS.

Currently looking on Tire Rack dot Com for new tires. I think we will go with Yokohama tires this time. Either the Geolandar A/T-S ($102) or Yokohama AVID ENVigor (H&V) ($100). Both are 98H rated and have very high survey ratings.

[majorkc]

I just replaced all four with Bridgestone Turanza Serenity(Grand Touring All-Season) in 235/60R16.
Serv. Desc: 100H Load Index 100 = 1764lbs (800kg) per tire
Speed Rating “H” = 130mph (210kph)
UTQG: Treadwear: 740 Traction: A Temperature: A
I Love them! Quiet and handle well in dry weather. And, I get $100 back by mail until April 30, 2011. I can see why they have such great ratings online.

[chinapat]

So, I have to replace my scorpions after about 53000kms. I called around to few tire shops and my closest Volvo dealer, to get a few quotes on replacement scorpions and the guy at the parts department at Volvo says they have 2 options - that Volvo Canada either recommends the Pirellis (@ $195/tire) or a set of General tires (@ $130/tire). He said 90% of their replacements these days are the Generals.

My original question was going to be about the rating - "98H" not "98V" - but judging from earlier replies I guess that's not something to worry about.

Anybody have any feedback on General Grabber UHP or General Alitmax HP?

I'm all for saving $250, but not at the expense of safety or quality.

[billr99]

So, I have to replace my scorpions after about 53000kms. I called around to few tire shops and my closest Volvo dealer, to get a few quotes on replacement scorpions and the guy at the parts department at Volvo says they have 2 options - that Volvo Canada either recommends the Pirellis (@ $195/tire) or a set of General tires (@ $130/tire). He said 90% of their replacements these days are the Generals.

My original question was going to be about the rating - "98H" not "98V" - but judging from earlier replies I guess that's not something to worry about.

Anybody have any feedback on General Grabber UHP or General Alitmax HP?

I'm all for saving $250, but not at the expense of safety or quality.

You can buy Generals at your local CT and probably save a bit versus going to a dealer.

Cheers,

Bill

[budrichard]

Our 2011 came with Conti 4x4 Contach 215-65-16 tires. i let my wife wife drive it this winter with the Conti's and she had no problems with snow or ice with the tires. She is a long time XC driver so she does have familiarity with snow/ice and these vehicles.They drive very nicely on dry pavement at speeds so far to 100mph. I would think these would be a suitable replacement for the the P STR's on older XC70's. I don't have any plans to put on a winter specific tire.
Me, I'm looking for an off road tire for my 2003 XC70 which currently has Nokian WR's. They Nokian's are great in snow/ice but they wear.-Dick

[Willy]

Hi there,

After running for 5 years Nokian WR's, it is time to get back to all season tires (have dedicated winter tires).
It must be me (not being of native English tongue), there is something that escapes me :o
Aren't the Nokian WR's all-season tires as well?
And, since you already have dedicated winter tires, why not add dedicated summer tires for the milder seasons?
Thanks in advance for taking the time to explain [happy]
Willy

[richyoung]

Keep an eye on the wear. I did the same thing to run Bridgestone (wider tire with lower aspect ratio). I found it difficult to get even wear with the wider tire. Air too low the outside wears and too high the inside wears. had trouble finding the perfect pressure and maintaining it in south FL heat.

[PierreC]

Hi there,

After running for 5 years Nokian WR's, it is time to get back to all season tires (have dedicated winter tires). I did not like the Pirelli STR's. I have done some research and found that the following H-rated tires could be suitable for my 2003 XC.
1. Kuhmo Solus KH16
2. Yokohama Avid Envigor
3. Falken Ziex ZE912
4. Michelin Latitude Tour HP

Has anybody used these any of these tires for a while?
How are they in terms of handling, wet grip, noise and tread life.
If you have any other tire suggestions please let me know.
Many thanks

Currently running a set of Michelin Latitude Tour HP - very very happy with them! I expect to get about 20.000 km more tread life than the stock Pirelli Scorpion STR's and roadholding / handling is exceptional - including in the wet.

Only problem is that they are quite expensive compared to the other options.

[chinapat]

Called two tire shops this morning, and they refused to put H rated tires on the XC...

[Astro14]

What did they say they would put on?

V or better?

Did they give a reason? Mine came with H-rated...

[chinapat]

They said V-rated only on the 2007 XCs.... something about liability. If they sell me H-rated, and I have an accident and it turns out to be the tires, they are liable. Both said the exact same thing...

[Willy]

The limited top speed of the XC is equal to the maximum allowed speed for H rated tires (both 210Km/h)
So there doesn't seem to be an argument for not using/placing them. At least, this is the case in the EU.
Willy

[pelagikos]

Costco tire shop made a fuss about putting anything rated below V.

Mr. Tire people did not even raise the question.

BTW, this nonsense probably varies from state to state. I am in MD.

[MacNoob]

Higher speed rated tires have stiffer/stronger construction overall. That makes a difference in ride/handling as well. No one will want to risk the liability involved in installing a tire that's lower than factory spec.

[wiz]

Costco tire shop made a fuss about putting anything rated below V... I am in MD. Same here, I'm in MA. However I persisted, signed a waiver and Costco fitted four Michelin MXV4 235/60-16 for me for approx $600. Have driven on them for 1.5 years and they're the best tires I've ever had. :)

[KILOFINAL7]

My 2005 XC came with Scorpions.....P7's I think. They were a very good tire. the 2004 XC i pick up tomorrow has Hankooks......they have 700 treadwear so lets see how they perform. I plan on replacing them with the scorpions

[madbill683]

Wiz, are those MXV4 tires the Primacy? I have those on my S70 and really like them. I'll be shopping for tires on the XC70 in about a year.

Cheers,

Bill

[wiz]

Yes, Michelin Primacy MXV4. Get the 235/60-16 size as that tire has an OD of 27.1 inches, extremely close to the OEM Scorpion. They are wider but no rubbing on full lock at all. Great ride & handling, awesome in the wet, excellent tread wear so far. They've been Consumer Reports #1 choice for all-weather tires for 2+ years now.

[madbill683]

great...that will make my shopping easier. I love the wet and ice traction of these on my S70, with just FWD. I bought my XC70 used and it had Goodyear Assurance tires on it, and I don't like them. I read the reviews on CR too, but wanted some real-world experiences and opinions on the XC.

Thanks.

[haoz129]

Yes, Michelin Primacy MXV4. Get the 235/60-16 size as that tire has an OD of 27.1 inches, extremely close to the OEM Scorpion. They are wider but no rubbing on full lock at all. Great ride & handling, awesome in the wet, excellent tread wear so far. They've been Consumer Reports #1 choice for all-weather tires for 2+ years now.


Agree, Michelin Primacy MXV4, strongly recommend.

I have 225/60R18 100H, smooth, strong and comfortable, size is 6% bigger then stock in overall diameter, no rubbing.
I always have good experience with Michenlin. Their tires give me confidence on the road.

Howard

[8pack]

I am confused at what you are looking for. I run the Nokian WR G2 all year round, rotate them every 7k miles and get 50k out of a set. I drive in VT in the winters and NJ Shore in the summers. They are in fact an "All Season Tire even though they have the snowflake rating. They are quite, get good gas mileage and ride nicely. I run the next size up for a little added cushion....

I run the Nokians all year round on my 2000 XC70, 2001 Saab 9-5, I used to run them on my A8 in the winter only and my S Class MB all year round. I find they are in fact an all season tire. But different strokes....

I had the stock Scorpions and they were total Garbage. I couldn't even get up a mild hill in the winter with them without sliding.....

It sounds like you are looking for more of a summer tire than an all season tire. My recommendation would have been the Nokian, but you are moving away from those.

I am curious to see what oyu get and how they run in the winter for you....

[goldxc70]

So ..... I've looked in my car manual, the on-line version of the manual, stickers on the car itself and nowhere does it say anything about a V-rating. The tires that came with my car from the dealership were V-rated Pirelli Scorpion STR's but other than that, I cannot see any reason not to go for a H rated tire as there is a much wider range available in that rating.

[Ars Gladius]

So ..... I've looked in my car manual, the on-line version of the manual, stickers on the car itself and nowhere does it say anything about a V-rating. The tires that came with my car from the dealership were V-rated Pirelli Scorpion STR's but other than that, I cannot see any reason not to go for a H rated tire as there is a much wider range available in that rating.

"H" rated is fine, it is still well above the conditions that the car will experience in it's life.

What really you need to pay attention to is the load rating: min load index "98" (1653 lbs or 750 kg).

[KILOFINAL7]

The Hankooks my 2004 XC70 has are "T" rated......an aweful tire. It feels like I'm riding on marshmellows.

[PieterJ]

I replaced my General Altimax HP's on saturday with WR G2's (225/60/16 98H). The General's were ok in the beginning but suffered a lot from "cupping" towards the end - nearly down to the wear indicators at 33K miles (with 5K rotations) while making a singing noise sounding like the front wheel bearings were shot. At the last rotation the tire shop also commented on how "out of round" they were - not sure what that meant but they sure were noisy.

The Nokian's so far has been pretty good - much more quiet although I haven't really pushed them hard in the wet. I'm mainly interested to see how they perform in the snow.

[goldxc70]

Has anybody tried the Pirelli P4? A local tire guy has suggested them as an upgrade to the Scorpion STR. As far as I can determine, this has a T speed rating.

[budrichard]

Has anybody tried the Pirelli P4? A local tire guy has suggested them as an upgrade to the Scorpion STR. As far as I can determine, this has a T speed rating.

It has been my experience that many Tire Dealerships will not install tires not correctly Speed Rated for your vehicle. Probably a bit of overkill in the USA but not in Europe with the Autobahn.-Dick

[wgriswold]

I have T rated Toyo's. Costco would not install anything less than V but Les Schwab happily installed the T rated tires. I have about 50K miles on them and they will be replaced in the fall at about 55K.

I think they are a little soft in winding mountainous roads but I don't push the car (my wife says I drive like an old farmer) so I can live with that to get the best mileage. If I were an aggressive driver, pushing the car to anything near its limits, I don't think I would be happy with the T rated tires.

[MacNoob]

Has anybody tried the Pirelli P4?

My experience with the Pirelli P6 on my Saab 9-5 (granted, not exactly the same tire or car) would warn me away. After three summers of use the P6 showed no visible wear but howled on any road surface and rode like they were inflated to 100 psi.