I survived last year's (worst winter in 5+ years) winter by having a set of Dunlop's Winter Maxx on stock wheels. Keep in mind this is coming from a NJ/NY area driver.
I believe dunlop came out with Winter Maxx within 2-3 years ago, maybe even 1.5ish years ago so shouldn't have to worry about that part.
Pros:
-Very good in the snow/ice never once did I panic due to loss of control or unpredictable movements. No problems braking or going up very steep and long hills. Stopping in the middle and starting on a hill covered in snow - almost no issue, 1 or 2 seconds to find traction maybe.
-Cheap, not dirt cheap but very reasonable price for 205/17
-Road noise isn't as bad as some other winter tires, it is there but not as bad haha
-Milage...I saw a very very slight decrease but that could be due to any number of reasons.
-Durability, can't say for certain yet, but I will say this, I drove a lot last winter and also had a bunch of fun having less grip. Life on the tires are still wonderful.
-feedback, tires were predictable in snow/ice/dry and overall gave off a good amount of information. Not applicable to when it rained though.
CONS:
-Not so great when it is dry or raining. Still better than the stock summers in below 35 F haha...not much of a comparison there.
-Really...be careful in the rain with these. Tires had very little feedback in the rain and I felt like the car was floating whenever I turned in the rain with these lol Not a fun experience to have often.
-Lose traction every time just by suddenly going WOT in a straightline at 4-5k rpm in 2nd, not terribly but man...
Drive safely, use common sense, and the winter maxx's will do their job.
TL
R Great newish tires by Dunlop if shopping on a budget. Will do a great job and more in Snow/Ice. Be extra careful in rain and drive normally in dry.