I just bought Toyo versados for my new Mazda 3 gt because I have a high end audiophile system and need quiet. They are quieter than the Yokohamas that came with the car and I will add snows when it gets cold. 17 inch are noisier and I wish I had 16. I switched out my Yokohama S34D 205/50/17 and have them on craig's list for an amazing 500. for four including install at direct tire. They'll ship them for 80 bucks.
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Find a Toyo dealer. Most shops that carry Toyo deal with performance cars. I found a local shop that deals in Toyo tires and they were able to come up with many options and lots of inside info about Mazda. As a bonus you might find a deal on tires + wheels when you take off your winter tires. Especially if your OEM tires still have good tread on them and you offer them to the shop.
Keep in mind that the 16's vs. 17's change the performance of the car. If you have a 2.0 5-speed and are not looking for the half-inch of clearance you may want 16's. If you switch to 17's visit a Mazda dealer to have your speedometer and computer calibrated for best performance. (Assuming your Tire shop isn't qualified in doing it)
I don't recommend Toyo's for winter driving. The sidewalls are designed for performance--not cold weather, potholes, and rocks. It's better to put a reinforced sidewall tire on for cold weather conditions. Winter studs are optional but should go on all 4 tires if you use them.[/b]
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