Tires: Tire confusion, michelin energy mxv4, season tire

Question
Hi John,  I drive a 2001 Windstar Limited.  I need new tires and found myself in the all weather/snow tire debate. I do live in Northern Michigan but have never owned snow tires. I do not leave the house for work every day and do almost no expressway driving.  I am looking at the Michelin X-Ice or an all season tire such as the Harmony.  I prefer an all season tire but after my research I'm wondering if I have just been lucky all these years.  I like a nice quiet tire with a smooth ride.  Can you tell me what the best tire would be?  I have been pushed hard around town to buy Hakkas or Gislaved.  I don't feel I need that type of performance tire since I drive so little - Thanks for your help.  Linda

Answer
This is a choice only you can make.

A snow tire like the Michelin X-Ice, which is a great tire, is for snow / ice.

A All season tire will work in the snow, but not as good as a snow tire.
It all comes down to how much do you drive in the snow?

Any Michelin will work nice.  Do not get the Harmony, it is the only tire from Michelin that is junk.  A Michelin Energy MXV4 Plus is nice, plus I own this tire.

John