I have a 2005 Honda Civic EX 1.7 and I've had the same factory tires (Potenza RE92) on since getting it in 05' and after putting 70000 miles on it. Things are starting to get pretty slippery even in rainy conditions so I know it's time for new tires.

I have been mostly satisfied with the Potenzas RE92, I have to keep in mind I've had them for 70000 miles. I did a little research and narrowed it down to the same Potenza RE92s or the Potenza G019s.

With pretty much everything else equal, the G019s seem to have a significantly greater/better treadwear grade and I've read a couple of reviews of people preferring the RE92s.

It would be an open and shut case, but what I CAN'T understand is why the G019s seem to be on average $20 less per tire compared to the RE92 when they seem to be superior from what I've read.

My only guess is that I understand the RE92s seem to be a standard factory installed tire for A LOT of new cars, so perhaps when it comes time to replace most people just don't bother doing any research and go with the same tire again, hence the greater demand for them.

If anyone could give me any ideas or input here I would appreciate it!

 

Couple things are happening here between these two tires. The first is the obvious that you pointed out with the treadwear rating. The RE92's have a very low rating listed on there, why? I have yet to figure out. BUT, I can 100% guarantee that the 160-UTQG does not mean it will wear out super fast and that they are a sticky tire. My Bridgestone RE-11 tires with a UTQG-180 are FAR stickier and better performing than the RE92's. They are a true ultra high performance summer tire, I use them for racing on my car... Although the RE92 is shows 160 and the G019s show 460, I can almost bet that they are VERY similar in treadwear and compound(grip).

Also, do some more research on surveys. Look at tireracks survey. Most people rank the G019s at being much BETTER, 8th in the list of "high-performance all-seasons" whereas the RE92 rank 19th! in the same category. I've also known many people that have ran the RE92's and HATE them in all conditions. I've personally driven on them on multiple cars and agree that they are a very scary tire. Although they do last long, I would never recommend them.

As for price, you are correct with the dealer tire. I worked at a Toyota dealer and these tires were VERY common in the dealer. Because of this, that is why the RE92's are ridiculous in price. If those are the only 2 tires you're interested in, I'd suggest trying out the G019's.

As another, more popular and great all-season tire, look into Falken Ziex tires.