This is my first coming winter with my 2.2L 5M HHR and I am wondering if any of you have a suggestion for winter tires.
Rims or not, Michelin vs Brigestone, 16 inches vs 15 inches etc..

Thanks

 

Bridgestone Blizzaks are unbeatable for snow.

 

I don't run winter tires on the HHR, we've had them on previous family cars and we've gone with the Blizzaks. Those always worked great in the snow but I've heard that the X-ice by Michelin are great on icey conditions. Either choice is good I suppose.

 

Rims = do it if you can. They'll pay for themselves in just 3-4 years with the money saved in the changing/balancing twice a year.

15 inches do fit (I found myself some used Saturn rims) but are somewhat harder to find. The tires in the 15 size (195/65R15 or 205/65R15) will be cheaper than the 16s, and will feel more "floaty". The narrower tire will help in snow and slush but is not as stable at highway speed. Compromises, compromises.....

As for brand, the name brands will be marginally better than others, but I've always gotten my snow tires at Canadian Tire and never had a complaint about them. Just by getting "some" snow tires, you're way ahead than with anything else anyway. If you can swing the cash, I'm sure that Michelins or Bridgestone will do the job.

I only occasionally travel in the winter, so I don't mind compromising a bit on dry performance for more traction and a cheaper price. I adjust my driving accordingly.

Yves

 

I went with the Goodyear Nordic that you find only at Canadian Tire, it was a good deal last year, it good if you dont want to pay much(that what I did, and I had for what I pay...), but I had Toyo Observe on my other car and I was very satisfied, I will go back to them next year for sure, My Nordic are only good for a nother winter...

 

I have 'Snow Tracker' brand tires that I got from the dealership. So far they have been excellent in the snow. And not as expensive as the name brand tires.