Ive got 18x8's on my maxima and Kumho Ecsta MX 235/40/18's. Best tire for the price. I think I got all 4 for like $540 or something. The fronts are already a little worn but I must admit I dont drive it kindly. My mom has Kumho Ecsta KH-11's on her maxima, 225/50/17's, on stock rims, and those are good too.

EDIT if youre looking for something that will last, as you said in your original post, then you gotta compromise a little performance imo unless you wanna spend a fortune on tires

PS--Streetdriven...if u wanna see how the Ecsta MX 235/40's feel on a maxima before you buy em, i can meet up with u sometime and u can try em out. (I have a 2k 5 spd)

-Kevin