Hi James!
I ran Kuhmo Ecsta 4x all seasons on my rear for 29,000 miles, but because of an alignment problem the fronts were replaced at 19,000 with another pair of the Kuhmo. I was satisfied with them, but recently went with the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3 in 285's on the rear. I could tell immediately that the Michelin had better grip, but as you said the price is much higher than the Kuhmo.