I'm running 225/45 r17 and I have no problem with the ride. Its a comfortable ride since the car doesn't really have harsh suspension. This car is made for cruising on the freeways and open roads as you will find out. Therefore, the suspensions rather soft and absorbs most of the harsh road conditions.

Yes, 17s are more inclined to road damage from pot holes etc, but they really look good on the car. Depending on your driving style and a host of other factors, and considering that 17s are high performance tires, on average you can expect to get about 15 to 25K miles out of a set. This doesn't mean you won't get less. The factory tires michelins Mxx3'didn't last me more then 12,000, but I'm running pilot sport A/s now, and I"m over 25,000 with at least another 12 to 15 K miles left on them...

The bottom line is that its a matter of personal choice, and your wallet....