I run a 2006 S. I also have a gentle up-slope from the garage to the road. The car is used in all weathers and with snow or ice about it can be tricky to reach the road. Personally I prefer to use winter tyres and run a set of Contis on 18" wheels for winter use reverting to the Michelin fitted 19" wheels once the temperatures start to rise. Although the initial cost of winter tyres is a burden the improved safety and driveability they provide during the colder months have made me a big fan. Of course when the winter tyres are fitted the summer ones are not being used so over the long term the extra costs are well spread out. Winter tyres come into their own once the temperature drops below 7C, which round here in Lincolnshire is for about 4 months of the year. The tyres can be used safely at much higher temperatures (information from Conti) should we get warmer weather such as in March. In addition should you go to the continent in the winter many counties, Germany for example, mandate the use of winter tyres. As far as driving characteristics are concerned in dry cold conditions there is more detectable movement with the winter tyres (bear in mind I am comparing different types of tyres, different makes of tyre and different wheel sizes) but once into icy, snowy or slushy conditions the winter tyres really come into their own. I'm a fan and would recommend them to anyone who uses their car for every day use. Regardless of tyre type when manoeuvring at slow speeds in snowy conditions it can be advantageous, in any car, to switch off the ESP/PSM system.