Re: tires
I just went thru this problem and settled on Cooper 2XS, primarily because they were cheaper, American made, and figured if Jack Roush put them on his Mustangs he was satified with them. Buying tires every 18-20,000 miles you have to be cost effective.
I have roughly 500 miles and I am totally impressed with the ride and handling not to mention the noise level.
good luck