I am leaning towards getting kumho ecsta mx tires for my car for summer use, and have done a fair amount of research on them. To my understanding they have a decent tread life (better than the Potenza S-02's) and are good for spirited driving, yet have decent traction in the rain.

However, I want to continue to consider other tires that could be just as good an alternative. Any ideas or any other tires anyone could recommend? (the tires must come in 215/45R17 and 245/40R17)

 

The RE050 is a great tire!...albeit, considerably more expensive than the MX. There's also the S03 (not sure on the exact size, but should be available), but again, pricier than the MX. I've looked around quite a bit myself, and have not found a better performing tire than the MX in the same price range. Maybe when Falken's new ST615 Azenis comes out, but it likely won't have the right sizes (from what I remember seeing from initial size offerings).