Hi, I just bought a 2007 9-3 AERO sedan and the Conti's are a bit thin

. Looking for some advice on a replacement tyre (235/45R17) for driving in the Washington, DC and Virginia areas. I have just moved here from Australia and tyre requirements are different - we don't get so much snow in Aust!

I am a spirited driver

and my main decider is road noise and grip.
I've visited the TireRack for some info.

Any suggestiions?