I recently received my '06 Mini (non-S). I ordered the sports package, which comes with 16" wheels, and I asked for all-seasons, since I live in the Boston area, and will use it on packed snow and ice (I have a truck that I will use for "real" snowy conditions). The car came with Goodyear Eagle NCT5 tires, which the salesperson assured me were all-season, and which are actually labeled as all season on the tag that comes with the tire. But I see on the forum that these have been described as summer tires. Any advice from those that have used these tires on packed snow or ice? Thanks.

 

Looking at the Goodyear site, they rate their NCT5 as a 2 on snow (on a scale of 1-10). I personally wouldn't want to use tires like these in Boston for the winter.

 

Non-runflats would be the best choice. Less expensive to replace, better traction, longer wear, smoother ride. You can sell your OEM tires if they're very low mileage. Sold mine on NAM. I have used BF Goodrich Traction T/A, v-rated (205-50-16) on both Mini's and they do well in all road conditions. Try the Tirerack site if you're inclined to make a change.

 

The NCT-5 is (or at least was in 2003) the Cooper sports package tire, not the all season tire.