I just had 4 new Continental ExtremeContact DWS tires put on the XFire in preparation for the Chicago winter. My choice was made largely based in reviews I read here, but that was supported by other reviews and every single guy working at Discount Tire commented they were great tires (they all very much seemed to like the XFire as well).

I went with the Gary sizes, rather than stock, because they look so good on his car. Stock size on the front 235/40/18, A little taller and wider on the rear 285/35/19. Man, they look good and fill in the wheel well nicely. The stance looks great, even though I don't imagine the 1/2" lift in the back should really be noticeable. It also seems it feels different, but, again, that is probably just perception.

The rubber that came off the car was, I believe, the stock Conti's that came with the car. It just turned over 40,000 miles. The rears were getting close to being slicks.

Having said that, I am comparing brand new tires, to well worn tires, but, OMG what a HUGE difference! The road noise is minimal. They feel great - smooth as silk. I even perceive there to be less rolling resistance - maybe not real. Corners like a slot car - I very much pushed the limits on some curves... well, passed them a bit a time or two.

Initial impression - I would definitely recommend these tires for this car!