So you've heard from a couple of satisfied owners of these tires from Barum. While I was not the initial discoverer of these tire, I probably was the most vocal in recommending these to other Crossfire Owners.

As previously stated, the ride is smooth and noise is minimal, if any. I also run the tires at 36 psig, which is somewhat above the OEM recommended air pressure. I ran the original Conti's at that air pressure also. I'm aligned with GraphiteGhost in that I wanted a performance tire at a reasonable price point. These tires are part of the Continental family and are rated as an equal, sometimes superior, tire to brands costing 2x what we paid for these. And Discount Tire is stocking these (at least in Greenville, SC stores) whereas I had to order them from Discount Tire Direct and have them drop-shipped at a local store for installation.

I know we haven't really addressed your question of winter use. These tires are classified as summer use only, which means the rubber compounds (& possibly tread design) do not make these conducive to winter seasonal driving. I wouldn't use these in any significant snow accumulation, or if the temp got done to near freezing. Otherwise, I'd use them during the winter season. You may have to look for another tire for your application. Consider looking at the website SuperBuyTires.com. Type in your sizes & tire performance required and you'll get quite a listing of tires that fit your requirements. Tires are manufactured all over the world and it is amazing what's out there.

Hope this helps. Good luck in your search. Pictures attached with tires on my XFire. Pictures of sidewall are those I took after I swapped out caliper covers, but you'll see what the tire looks like.