Geeman,
I have a set of the Nokian WRG2s (SUV) from call tire, I had them installed on my 2009 2WD Toyota RAV in september. I live in NorthWestern Ontario, where we've already had LOTS of snow, ice and slush, and I can tell you so far I am very pleased with these tires. They seem to bite into snow quite well compared to all seasons, they really do cut through built up slush well when changing lanes, and my ABS kicks in much less when stopping on hard packed snow/ice. I ran them for three months before snow, on two road trips (totalling 5k) and there was no noticeable treadwear, they were quite quiet, even compared to my stock all seasons, and they did not feel mushy or sloppy like winter tires often do.
I would highly recommend these tires if you want the added safety of winter tires but don't want to worry about summer switchovers and storing tires. I personally do not feel these tires are a "compromise", and as the saying goes, you do get what you pay for. They are pricey, but I feel well worth it.
Also, compared to separate all-season and winter tires, they truly are no more expensive. My reasoning is this:
-Four WRG2s in the 215/70/16 size ran me $192/tire, with taxes, install, etc, approx. $900.
-Four WS60 blizzaks or X-ice XI2s would run about $150-$160/tire, but you also need extra rims if you wish to avoid damaging the tires themselves with mounting/dismounting, which adds at least $60 per tire, meaning this brings you up to at least $900 as well.
-Driving an average of 20k/year, the nokians will last about four years, under pro-rated 80k warranty. To experience the "true benefit" of "pure winter tires", you'll also need a new set after four years. Many blizzak owners report their excellent ice traction is gone after two winters.
Bottom line, the Nokians do not cost you more. They might not cost you less, but certainly not more.
