I must have had many reviews bookmarked and can't remember one about Mk4 body roll or screaming engine, althought quite a few CRV reviews complained about noise when flooring the throttle. Low profile tyres are a nonsense on British roads where most trips are commuting and shopping.
There were a few that made a point of the engine noise, and body roll. Like Kremen mentions above though, these are copy/paste lazy journalism reviews and the car was probably not even driven. I think the drive is excellent, better than my previous Capturs by far. I don't think the engine noise is a problem either, the transition between power modes is seamless and motorway driving is very quiet.
When you mention low profile, are you referring to the 16" that are fitted to the Crosstar and EX Style or as an available option?
Mine has the 16" and I would say they are definitely not low profile, having the Yokahama Blue Earth rubber shoes.
Again, I defy anyone to notice a difference in 1" between to the two Jazz option wheels.