Why does everyone go for steelies, is it just because they are cheaper new than a set of alloys?
Yes in my case.
A set of steel 16″ wheels and decent tyres from Mytyres were appreciably cheaper than 18″ tyres to fit the standard alloys. in addition, steels are less of a worry in terms of damage in poor conditions and effectively cost neutral over the four years I intend to keep the car as it makes the summers last longer. It is also less of a hassle to change them over in winter/spring as I can do it myself with a trolley jack. As it is VAG car, the wheel bolts are the same.
I don’t care that they don’t look as good as the alloys- I have a set of covers that are OK and I’m inside the car most of the time, not looking at the outside.