[Kell]

It's more the straight line stopping power that I worry about with a big, heavy car.

I imagine most people don't push the lateral grip of their Q5 very hard, but those unexpected heavy braking moments are the ones that concern me.

Having said that, I had Avon's on my old TT and couldn't tell any difference from the Pirelli's that were specced from new. I do wonder how much tyre technology is just scaremongering.

 

[Kell]

I don't know enough about tyre technology to accurately score a tyre out of ten for wet grip...

Which is why I'm not sure I really trust those owner review aggregator sites. And I think the point above just proves why - tyre wear could vary dramatically depending on your style of driving. I would be able to say how many miles I'd covered in a set, I guess, but only if I was really paying attention when I put them on. It really needs a standardised system to accurately record these things.

I'd much rather trust the independent tyre tests and ratings for grip and noise.