What options do we have for cheaper tyres for a non-high performance daily?

Toyo T1S and T1R seem a waste for my piece of shit EG, especially at $170 a pop.

All I really want is a good looking tread pattern, long lasting, quiet and better than average wet and dry performance.

I'm a tad scared running 215/45/15 T1, because I've heard because the T1S has super soft side walls, and the wide tyre profile;
a) I'll get bad fuel economy
b) it'll wear really quick
Is this true?