got to drive my HS in some snow for the first time this weekend, and the Toyo's that come with the Premium had very little traction. It was like wearing summer tires, even though we had less than 1".

If it wasn't such a hassle, I'd trade someone with the base 17's so I can drive MXV4's instead. IMO, they are a much better match for the HS.

 

Get the right tire for snow driving...

which model came with it anyways?

 

Premium. Base HS's come with 17" Michelin MXV4's - perfectly good all-season touring tire for places where you get occasional light snow. Worked fine on my Saab, Acura (even in Maine!), and Passat. The Toyo's are supposed to be all-season as well, but don't act like it.

Snow tires make absolutely no sense outside the snowbelt on a car designed for all-season touring tires.

 

Yeah we were not too thrilled Toyos are on the premium model...We much prefer Michelin.

Though most any low profile tire in snow will suck.