This is where the debate can go on and on....the tires.
This is my understanding:
20" rims come with summer performance tires. If you get these, you will more than likely want to get winter tires, because they do not handle well in the winter. I currently drive a suv with 20" performance tires, and it is terrible in the winter. I am guessing your winters are worse in Vermont.
19" are all year tires, and there should be no need to swap out tires in the winter. I have heard from others that the ride may be a little smoother in the 19's, but these are all opinions.