just wanna check if I get this right... I was reading posts about 17 vs 18 regarding handling.... with the stock suspension, 17 > 18 in handling. 18 is just for the looks... is that the consensus?

 

The added weight of the 18's do not really benefit your car.. with both wheels you will still be able to fit the same width of tire. Granted you can go with lower profile in the 18's but the benefit is marginal due to the fact that the S is low on torque and you need every bit of weight saving possible.. so having a lighter 17" which will in turn also net lighter tires I believe, will be better performance than getting 18".