Made in USA or Made in Thailand Michelin Defender

For some reason the stock size Michelin Defender for my Sport is Made in Thailand (according to Tirerack) but if I upsize to 265 70 R17, it's made in the good ole US of A.

I drive on pavement 99% of the time, which is why I'm opting for the Defender.

The 265 65 R17 is also 2 pounds heavier. Both are SL range.

Go with the 265 70 R17?

 

Michelin is a great premium tire brand. I wouldn't hesitate to use them in general, no matter where they are made. If you want the best MPGs, stick with the stock tire height. If you want to fill up the wheel well a little more and don't mind a small hit in the MPG department then 265/70 will look better in my opinion.

 

I'm considering the 255/70r17 myself - coming from 265/70r17 Toyo's