I'm going to be getting some 17x8 rims, and was wondering what would be the best tire to get. The max width I can consider is 245, so I can stay leagal in STX. These tires will be used for daily driving in the summer and for autox. I was going to go with 225/45/17 because of the money savings for one, and also so it would keep a similar tire diameter to stock. But I could also go with 235/40, or even a 245. Thoughts?

Many people have successfully run 245-40-17s. Whether you rub depends on how low/stiff your suspension is...I thought the '05's have a little more space.
245's on a lowered '03 (stiff springs)
http://hometown.aol.com/locksird/images/245,40,17-17x8%20et%2044%20rear.jpg

Thoughts? 235/40/17 for perfect fit and a little better gearing for autox.

Lots of options in a 235/45-17, too. Falken makes a 245/45 that might be worth considering.

225/45/17
235/40/17 for wrx
245/40/17 you might have to roll your rear fender depending on your suspension drop.

I am putting on 225/45/17 Falken RT615's on Advan RGII's in 17x8 this weekend.Let ya know how they look.Dont mind if they have a very slight stretched look.I hate wide tires on skinny wheels though.

sounds good, i'd like to see those pics

+1 for 245/40/17

I have Falken FK452 tires on my Enkei RPF1 17x8".

thanks,
Gruppe-S

Here's a 235/40/17 Hankook RS-2 on a 17x8" Rota Torque for reference:

http://www.wideopenwest.com/~vacationdave/kook.JPG

Not a close pic, but here is a slightly stretched 225/45/17 Falken FK-451 on same rims:

http://www.wideopenwest.com/~onyschuk/WRX Rotas1.JPG