I went through a similar dilemma, except I don't have snow tires (not enough snow in VA to justify the expense). I settled on Mich Pilot XGTz4, they are expensive, but they are quieter then the stock xgtv's, much better in the snow, and have unreal traction. My second choice would have been mich mxv4+, on other cars I have had the mxv4 and the mxv4+ and found the mxv4+ to be a great all around tire snow, wet, quiet, long wearing, and smooth ride (but not sporty, hence the pilots). Good luck

P.S. I stick with Michelin because I think they are better made and since I tried not to skimp on safety by buying a Volvo, I did not want to skimp on safety by buying cheaper tires.

Rob '98, s70 T5M