... and this is my first rwd car in the US (previously drove an Acura TL). I am thinking of getting a set of snow tires. My current car uses the 16" all-season Dunlop tires. The dealer told me that the LS is a terrible performer in winter, that's another reason I'm getting snow tires. The last reason is that this is my only car.
The questions:
1) In terms of grip in snow: is 17" winter tires OK, or would I be waaaaaaaay better with 16" winter tires ?
2) Which brand is the best ? I heard from a friend that Blizzak is very good. I'd like one with comparable comfort & handling level, tread life shouldn't be a problem.
Thank you first.

George

 

Not sure about the winter tire recommendations, but I'll agree that the LS could be a terrible handler without them. No chains or snow tires, you'll be slipping all over the place- unless you go about 5MPH everywhere .

 

Gewe,

Please buy the Blizzak WS50 in the stock tire size on the stock rims for your LS. You will be amazed at the performance and will be able to run circles around any suv on the road. Really. We live smack in the middle of the Rocky Mountains....what do we drive? I drive my 91 Supra turbo with about 350rwhp on 80% of the days....the other 20% I drive my alltrac turbo. Both cars have Blizzaks for the winter. My wife...drives the LS with WS50s every day. We had a Landcruiser...but after 2 winters decided there was no need for the gas hog and sold it....its been the LS ever since. Let me tell you...we get winters.

 

The only major problem I had was getting out of a tight parking space with ice and snow on the ground. As far as driving in the snow, my LS held up pretty well, wasn't slipping all over the place...Traction control helps...