My 2017 Escape had 19s. A huge benefit of the 17s on my FE is I haven't been worried about scratching my rims once. This is the first vehicle I've had with ATs, I'm never going back.
The more sidewall, the better. IMHO
I def understand the risks of buying a new model, but OP def is justified to be upset.
I LOVE my FE. But if I hop in and dies on me (in public when we all know how eye catching/decisive the BS is) I would certainly be in my feelings.
We had our 4th largest snowstorm just recently, here in Denver. I drove my FE on every unplowed street I could find. It didn't even slip a tire.
It will be well worth the wait, friend! You're going to love it.
I have about 4,000 miles on my FE. Only 500 of those miles were over 40mph. I pretty much exclusively drive in the city. I didn't know that was a rare thing.
I like the lights staying on. It's like a flex since they are so recognizable.
The wiper fluid alert on the other hand is a straight problem. I don't need an alert every time I start the car letting me know my wiper fluid is at 85%.