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My Toyota Camry Sportiva has Michelin "Vivacy" radials (205 / 60) fitted. These are due for replacement and are very expensive. Should I bite the bullet and put Michelins back on, or could I get equivalent safety, comfort and value from another brand?

John

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December, 2009

The Camry Sportivo is as the name suggests the sportier model Camry. They have different tyres, wheels and suspension settings to other Camry models.

Michelin are a very good European brand and are obviously Toyota's preferred choice of tyre to gain the best in performance and safety.

There will be a number of alternative tyre brands available on the market however, many of which will come with a cheaper price tag.

A reputable tyre stockist will be best to advise you on the options available but bear in mind they will only be able to advise on the brands they sell, so try a couple of stockists and consider all the options they put forward carefully.

Like most services these days, it often comes down to the trust or confidence you feel in one persons advice over another's.

Don't forget to seek the opinion of your local Michelin store, they may offer you a good deal to keep the car on its original tyre brand.