With the stock Volvo 17s, you won't have any rubbing problems. As previously stated, though, the ride will be stiffer. Also, I've blown two tires and badly bent one rim on potholes within the past 2.5 years. One was a 225/40/18, going about 40mph, hit the pothole, destroyed the tire and really screwed the rim. The other was a 215/40/17, popped the sidewall of a brand new Eagle F1, but thankfully left the rim intact. The 18s did rub, with my lowered suspension, but at stock height, the 17s will be fine. And it will definitely look better...if you want I can email you pics of my car with both the 17s and 18s, to give you an idea...