Personally, I have Maxxis MA-V1's on the front as for $150 per tyre they are a reasonable comprimise between cheap Chinese tyres ($105 tyres) and dearer tyres such as Toyo's, bridgestone etc ($220+) in 235/45/17.
The bottom line is I simply didnt have enough cash at the time I needed tyres, and I know my tyres aren't the best, therefore I drive my car accordingly. I simply won't push it right to the limits of the suspension, because I know the tyres will let go first, and as with everything in life its just about compromise