I did mention the Wrangler but ruled those out, but the 2 he recommended were the Grabber UHP and the Kumho's KL12. Obviosuly these are the "budget" option, but he said in the States General are classed as a top brand, but here mid class.
The Kumhos will be the cheapest option as per REDSHEEPRIDD, but looking at the Kumho website only on road rating is good:
http://www.kumhotyre.co.uk/selector.php?tyre_id=17
Whilst on the generaltire site they don't rate them, these seem to be a good all round option, but maybe the snow performance will not be as good.
http://www.generaltire.com/tires/T4/Grabber-UHP
and decent ratings here, though based on different sizes/cars.
http://www.tyretest.com/4x4_reifen/g...uhp/index.html
http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Ge...abber-UHP-.htm
So yes once you have made a decision, I am back to square one ! He did say if I ordered the tyres myself (as for example if I went for Vreds, then currently his suppliers are out of stock, then he'd be happy to fit them), so thats always a good option to have.
Also he will do the balancing, and worst case to fix all wheel the total cost would be around £80, which is cheaper than the £99 volvo dealers charge, and I am not sure if that covers any alignment.
So as my usuage will be roughly 60% Dry/ 40% Wet and possibly a bit of snow, then I think I may go with the Grabbers, but I am still not decided fully..
I still have a couple of weeks to decide and sure there be a few more curveballs thrown up on this thread....