Originally Posted by shapeshifter309
Just got a new set of Advan S4's on my XF actually, and before them, had a set of Michelin Pilot Sport A/S's on. I can say that the Michelin's did not wear well and were very lackluster compared to how good they were rated (not to mention expensive as all hell).
The Advan's on the other hand, despite their lower ratings (which I was concerned about), are pretty solid tires. Snow melted here before I got to test them in it, but if their snow traction is as good as their wet and dry traction, snow should be no problem. So far, they've pleasantly surprised me. They ride pretty well too and aren't too expensive, at least here. We generally get a good amount of snow here (got 20-some inches in one storm this year), so snow is a concern for me as well.
If you can get your hands on a set of Continental DWS's, get them. A lot of XF owners seem to love those. I've heard they have a softer sidewall though, which can affect handling quality.
We have snow and icy roads about 2-3 weeks a year, I cant take my car out as wheels just spin and the traction control kicks in even when I turn it off. You mentioned '' Continental DWS'' any reason why you didn't choose them in the first place over the ''Advan S4's'' I am really lost on this as I never knew '' Michelin Pilot Sport'' rear tyre was going to cost me £270 per tyre !!.