I am looking to upgrade my 2009 Base Fit.

I need some feedback based on the direction I should go with wheel size.

At this point I am looking at 205/55/15 tires with some entry level wheels ($75-80 each) or maybe even some Buddy Club wheels ($105-110). This size tire seems to run $60-70 each.

I also thought about going with 205/45/16 with an entry level wheel ($85-95 each) or Buddy Club wheels ($130-140). Tires seem to run about $75-85 each.

Basically it is about $150-200 more to go with the larger wheel. Is it as no brainer to spend the extra money to go with 16s?

I am looking for a ride that handles better than the stock steelies and small tires I drove off the lot with...

Feedback on this is greatly appreciated.

 

Both of the options you list will be fine depending on the offset of the wheels. You have to decide how big you want to go on the car. The 205/45R16 tire is a little short on the car and I would not recommend them. I would look at a 205/50R16 depending on the year of the car.
If I can help let me know.