1,600 miles update
Ok, 1,600 miles so let’s update the review.
Just drove to Indiana and back this week. I have done this trip at least three times before with GDY LS fitted. All other trips were during summer time with AC on. This time as temps were in 30’s and 40’s the AC was off. From my experience AC lowers fuel economy by 1 – 2 mph. So here are the results:
a) 900 miles trip with cruise control mostly at 76 mph
b) very disappointing fuel economy 21 mph (previous trips 24 mpg)
c) relatively harsh and noisy drive
d) Murano does feel more sure footed
e) through entire trip I could feel vibrations which would increase with speed
f) every imperfection in the road was transferred throughout steering and suspension (not a pleasant feeling)
After the trip I took the MO to the tire place to check the tire balance. I have to say they did a very good job with precision, dynamic balancing of the wheels mounted on the car with speed up to 110 mph. After that the car drives somewhat smoother at higher speeds.
CONCLUSION
I have not changed my “first impressions”. These are truck tires and as such not suitable for Murano. Murano requires passenger car tires, most likely what TireRack describes as touring or high performance highway tires. Going with Yokos was a mistake. Also, I have lost trust in TireRack ratings and reviews. They simply suck, are not scientific, not measurable. They are more expressions of someone feelings that stating facts.
I cannot say with confidence if dry and wet tractions are better or worse that OEM as I would simply state my feelings, not the true facts. I do not have test equipment to do so. However, I did have an emergency, dry braking last Friday (some idiot in a white box van cut me off!) and the performance was probably on par with GDY LS. I have to say however, that I can spin the Yokos at take offs I would say easier than GDY LS.
Cornering is better with Yokos, it most likely has something to do with stiffer tire walls or simply the size (wider), not Yokos themselves.
Back to fuel economy – down by 12.5%. It is a lot. If we assume tire life of 30,000 miles, average mileage 20 mpg, gas price $1.90/gallon, the extra cost will amount to $356. A significant amount. I would not mind that if I got in return a good, well handling, quiet, nice riding tire. I did not.
I took your advise and placed 2 posts on TireRack (got message – post successful). Noting shows on they website! Suspicious?
These are only my opinions. I do not work nor have any association with a tire company or a tire retail or fitting place. I have not been paid for this review and my opinion has not been influenced by anyone. You make your own mind when selecting a new tire for Murano.
Happy motoring!