For whatever it's worth:
Found this discussion on another forum about tire/wheel size. Might help a little, you probably know most of it and then some:
https://www.wrxtuners.com/forums/f53...ire-faq-19172/
He talks about the effect of width on suspension geometry, mostly more width.
Also, compared on a tire size comparison chart. Stock (per my door jamb plate) compared to the size you mention:
https://tiresize.com/comparison/
215/55 R 16 compared to 225/45 R 17. Diameter 25.3 to 25. Width 8.5 to 8.9. Sidewall 4.7 to 4. Circumference 79.5 to 78.4. Revs/mile 797 to 808.
I compared a bunch of other sizes based on research I was doing today because I have to buy new tires. I looked at other sizes SVXers are using to try and find any complaints. I found nobody really griping about anything but rub with some sizes. My very amateur opinion is that if you drive hard and fast you might notice a slight difference.