Quote Originally Posted by spicyrambutan View Post
I am seeking advice for new tyres on my Tiguan MY18 162TSI Highlinewith the R-line package 20 inch wheels. I need to replace the original factory fitted Continental Contisport Contact 255/40 R20 V XL tyres with something equivalent or better quality and ride.

I use my car for mainly short to medium distance city and suburban driving on the weekends with occasional freeway and country drives. I have only driven just under 40,000 km in just over 5 years.

After researching available tyre models by calling a few tyre stores and obtaining online quotes, I have been recommended the following tyre models by a few different stores

Continental ContiSportContact 5 SUV 101V XL (contiseal)
Continental ContiSportContact 5 101Y AO
Pirelli Scorpion Verde (seal inside)
Pirelli Powergy
Pirelli P Zero PZ4
Kuhmo PS91 ECSTA (significantly cheaper than the others above)

Can someone provide me with advice around the following?

I understand the AO code refers to a tyre specifically designed for an Audi. Given that Audis and VWs have shared/similar designs can a AO tyre be put on an VW Tiguan without causing any problems?

Is there any benefit to having a tyre with the contiseal gel (Or equivalent in the Pirelli)? Why does the Continental tyre for the Audi (AO) model not also have the gel? Is it something to do with the electronic air leakage detection in the Tiguan?

I have been told that Continentals are a softer, faster wearing tyre than other brands, but provide a more comfortable ride. Would I notice the difference in performance in the Pirelli, Kuhmo or other high performance tyres?

Should I consider the ContiSportContact 6 (AO1) as a higher performing tyre for not much more in cost compared to the other two Continentals, or other there other technical/performance reasons to stick to one of the Contact 5 models?

Are there any other quality performance tyres I should consider under the $400-$500 per tyre price range?

Thanks!
Many high performance tyre reviews rate the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S as top of the list.

We have done over 40k km on our set (Tig MY19 162 R-line) and I rate them as clearly the best tyres I have ever driven on - except that they are harsh and noisy, which we are fine with. Compared to the stock Contis the Michelins tamed 80% of that understeer due to sheer grip. I believe that for most people however the straight 4 version, and now the 5, is a better compromise. I plan to buy them next.