Hi. I was hoping to get tire recommendations for my 2005 RX 330. I'm looking for something quiet with a soft ride. The tire should be good in the rain. Thanks for your help.

 

This is what I just put on my 04 RX330 and 15 RX350. In both cases they are quiet and have been good in the rain and snow. I know others will not agree since these are not well known.

 

Michelin tires give you pretty good all around traction. Michelin is what Lexus most likely put on your car when they built it. The only negative thing I can say about Michelin tires is that they wear out faster than most other tire brands.

 

I have had 5 new Lexus vehicles over the years and none of them came with Michelin. This includes a 2000 RX a 2004 RX and 2015 RX. Not saying none do, just that none of mine did.

 

 

cooper great ride and quiet

 

Been looking at Pirelli Scorpian Verdes as thats what the dealer by me has been putting on a lot of their cars. Was wondering if anyone has any experience?

 

Previous owner (my mother) had pirelli tires scorpion verde on the RX330 for 4-5 years, in the north east with rain, snow, pot holes, you name it. they are a bit on the pricier side but quiet and never an issue. Even when they were old and worn out i never had an issue in rain or normal driving. i would also recommend searching this forum some more for tires there are a bunch of different opinions.

 

Our AWD RX330 has 235/55/18's and we have tried Michelin MXV8 (OEM) twice, Bridgestone Dueller H/L Alenza (twice), Goodyear Assurance ComforTred, Bridgestone Dueller H/L 422, Michelin Premier LTX and this past week we put Michelin Defender LTX M/S on.

The best ride was probably the Goodyear, but I am really intrigued by the Defender LTX. The tire is really quiet, seems to absorb bumps well and it is snowing pretty good right now and while the RX has never been great in the snow -- I just went through some areas and am impressed so far.

Not sure how much you are wanting to spend (the Michelin's are a bit pricey), but something to consider. YMMV.

 

I'm really intrigued by what you had to say about the Michelin Defender LTX M/S. I was leaning towards the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady, but I'm reconsidering. Mostly I'm looking for a soft and quiet ride. I don't do much driving in rain/snow here in the desert.

 

When my wife says "the car seems to ride smoother", I usually pay attention. She has said that twice since purchasing the car new in November 2003 (it now has ~240,000 miles). Once after putting on the Goodyear ComforTred and once after putting on the Defender LTX M/S. Since both sets were new and were replacing 3/32 tread tires (the Dueller Alenza was loud), I will wait until I say how good they are. But, the reviews at Tirerack are favorable.

To date, 38,000 miles is the most we have been able to get on a set of tires, and most sets were done in the 30-35,000 range -- I hope the Defender will do better, but we will see.

 

has anyone used the Cooper Ultra? I am in Australia and put a set on last yr before driving Sydney to Cairns return (6000 kms ) They are very quiet, smooth and handle well. They have a 80k kms guarantee

 

For the second time I have purchased Michelin Premier A/S set - I could have gone with LTX, but Michelin rep said 2005 RX330 are good for both types. Extremely good and quiet tires. The first set lasted 60K. Yes, a bit pricey but your life/well-being is worth the premium.
Here is a caveat.
Like batteries, tires behave and last differently at different weather/climate. I live in the North East and my Michelins are amazing for snow and rain handling.
They are advertised as using sunflower oil to be more adherent to the road surface and compound not to freeze as much.
This shall not be your issue in AZ when you hit summer record temps.
If it were up to me, I would chose a manufacturer that you are comfortable with, call cust support and inquire for the best suitable tire for your climate - very likely summer tires is a way to go.
I know that I am not giving you direct answer, but we do have different situations and my solution may not be applicable to yours.
As long as you stay with the reputable manufacturer and use common sense, you shall be fine.
Stay safe.

 

i'm neurotic about ride and tire noise.long story short: although they are more than most at the start , i find they meet my needs the best by a long shot-- and i'm cheap but at the end of the day these are a 'deal'.Michelin Primacy

Remember: you're not driving a chevette