Zetetic

The A3 I ordered will arrive soon with the Sport Package which includes Mag Ride, 18" wheels & 225/40 tires. I understand this sport suspension lowers the car about 20mm. Would light weight cable chains clear the fenders & suspension elements, etc. ? In Seattle we don't really need snow tires for the season so don't suggest that!

April

so clearance isn't nearly so much an issue. They offer several kinds:

<img src="http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/sports-imports/spikesspider.jpg"><ul><li><a href="http://www.spikes-spiders.com/">http://www.spikes-spiders.com/</a</li></ul>

Zetetic

I'm getting Quattro but can these just be on the front wheels?

MaWeiTao

I'd say getting tire chains is a far more drastic solution to dealing with snow than getting snow tires.

I'd say good all-season tires are sufficient. I drove home an hour ago in heavy snow and had no issues whatsoever on my all-seasons. And it's entirely possible tire chains are not legal in urban areas, although I can't speak for Seattle.

If you're planning on heading into the mountains, however, than everything I've said is irrelevant.

April

Yes. It is normal to install "chains" on the front wheels on most awd vehicles

Zetetic

My issue is the car has high performance Michelin summer tires