Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra Tires vs. Michelin Defender LTX M/S Tires for E53 X5?

[bmwfan101]

Hi,

Between these two tires, which would you guys recommend for my 2003 BMW X5 3.0i?

1) Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra Tires

2) Michelin Defender LTX M/S Tires

Both of these above tires are all-season based tires. I am due for new tires, and between these two options, my mechanic recommended the Bridgestone ones. I just wanted to see if anyone on here had any other opinions?

My research is showing that both are very comparable and pretty good choices. Tirerack.com actually technically rated the Michelin ones marginally better, but the difference was very minuscule overall. Also, as mentioned above, my mechanic said for his own BMW's he has always used Bridgestone tires and has had a great experience + very smooth ride with them. What are your guys thoughts on which of these two would be a better choice? I am only choosing between those two because these two are both being sold at Costco, which is where I get my tires from. The Bridgestone ones are actually currently on sale and $190 cheaper than the Michelin ones.

Thanks in advance!