I will attempt to add to this discussion by saying that...the manufacturers are not trying to save any money by putting the wheel/tire combination that they do. Milions are spent just on research to determine the optimal combination for all cars every year.
The stock tires put in cars (i will only single out toyota and honda) in Pakistan may not the best in quality but that doesnt mean that they are useless. You can get the same spec tire/wheel combination in a better brand..you will get the looks and the performance too.
I drive a 99 EX Civic in toronto which came with stock 185/65R14 Firestone tires. After 45K, i have just replaced them with Pirelli P3000 all season in exactly teh same specs. I never had any problem with Firestone except just before changing when they were slipping in snow.
So bottom line...keep your stock tires/wheels but if you must change..follow the recommended "INCH-UP" instructions available with most tire companies on the net. Like if you move up from 185/65R14...the next step is 195/60R15 or maybe a lower profile with 195/55R15. THE KEY IS..AND ALWAYS REMEMBER...THE ROLLING DIAMETER OF THE TIRE SHOULD NEVER CHANGE.