Sounds like you got Yokohama tires. Their Avid Touring came stock on my Subaru and they are good tires. I've had three sets on two different subarus and except for one sidewall gash, they have been great. One of those sets was the Discount Tire exclusive by Yokohama that's basically the same tire. I think our last set was also just under $300 about two months ago.

How's the FE with those tires?