I can see how 18 would raise wheels up again. I don't want to spend a lot on a corolla.
If you drive one a lot, I would agree. I said the same thing when I bought it. Once I started modding it, and even now, I've tried to stay true to the car. Most of what I've done has been with Toyota or TRD parts. Exceptions have been rims, intake, LED's, etc.
I will always search for a "factory" item before going to aftermarket.
With all that said, I have a 2014 LE Premium with just under 10k. Two years left of payments if I stick to the finance agreement. The warranty is about to run out, so now I have started doing more serious mods. I don't plan on getting rid of this car, so for me, I don't mind putting a few bucks into it.
Even if it's just a Corolla.
BTW, in other country's they don't view this car as an economy car. That seems to be an America's thing.