I have 215/45/17s on my SVT.
The ride height is roughly comparable to a sport-package 3 series or A4.
I was initially very worried about the apperance of high ride height, but I
am pleased with the looks, and a lot of people ask me if I've lowered the
car despite the stock suspension. It doesn't look hunkered down, and the
front could use a slight drop, but it doesn't look stupid. There are a LOT of
cars I see on the road with factory 17" wheels that have more fender gap.
The upgrade to high-end 45 profile rubber was a night and day difference
in the overall handling and feel of the car.
I have put off lowering the car because I remain unhappy with most of the
options on the market. I'd like to drop the car about 0.5" up front and 0.0"
in the rear but almost everyone offers a minimum 1.0" front and rear drop,
which puts my front bumper far closer to the road than I'd like.
The main aesthetic benefit is that you will likely push the wheels and tires a
bit to the outside, giving a more aggressive track. This alone looks just great.
I say do it!
T.
