If you’re looking at the Minion DHF, the 2.5 EXO is just a really reliable front, just gets on with it. Because it’s the older Maxxis sizing, it’s actually more like a big 2.35 than a genuine 2.5 btw, is only a little larger than the 2.25 Ardent, which is a decent rear, but hopeless in anything soft up front . Fits fine in a Pike or Revelation too. The 2.35 is quite small, more like a big 2.1 ime.
The 2.4 Ardent is a slightly different beastie from the 2.25 version btw, much chunkier tread which makes it better up front but slightly draggier as well as being obviously heavier. It’s also taller than the 2.5 Minion DHF, but slightly narrower.
Have you looked at the On One Chunky Monkey as a budget Minion alternative up front? Haven’t used it, but that up front and a Smorgasbord at the back might work.
All personal taste though, what feels right to one rider won’t necessarily suit someone else etc. 🙂