It depends. If you're leasing, that might not work. The last time I looked (and when I got my car), the money factor on the xi was substantially higher than the i, so you end up paying for AWD + higher interest on the payments. If you're buying, this is a non-issue.

 

If I were you, I would get the sports package and then sell the wheels (or swap with someone who had the 17's)

With the AWD, you are going to lose a little acceleration, and you will not have the sports suspension, so you have to decide what that is worth to you. Still, Being able to use full power on that car at low speeds, tight turns, or in the rain can be kinda nice (with AWD).

 

The 'xi' may actually ride worse over potholes (I have one). In that climate, definitely get an i sport.