In the pop-up group on Yahoo, lots of people have discussed the replacement tire issue.
If I remember correctly, the Prius requires extra-load tires because (a) it is somewhat heavier compared to other cars of its size, and especially the small tire size; and (b) regenerative braking skews the load on the tires, and the fronts bear a lot of braking pressure.
Many people swear by the Michelin X-Ones -- they are supposed to provide much better handling but do cost you 1-2 mpg. You need to buy them slightly larger than the Potenzas. I forget the details -- something about "185".
Perhaps someone with actual experience can chime in and help. I just rent the things, I don't own one.
If I remember correctly, the Prius requires extra-load tires because (a) it is somewhat heavier compared to other cars of its size, and especially the small tire size; and (b) regenerative braking skews the load on the tires, and the fronts bear a lot of braking pressure.
Many people swear by the Michelin X-Ones -- they are supposed to provide much better handling but do cost you 1-2 mpg. You need to buy them slightly larger than the Potenzas. I forget the details -- something about "185".
Perhaps someone with actual experience can chime in and help. I just rent the things, I don't own one.