I did a test drive in normal 7 seater and then found the new configuration 7 seater in the lot and was able to play around in it. My thoughts:
Old 7 seater:
- Rear view is totally obscured. (fix: I'll just use the digital backup cam)
-Sitting in the third row, while spacious enough and comfortable, I feel like I am being imposed on by the tall seats, could trigger a claustrophobic person.
- Monopost seats look really neat
- All seats Move independently.
- Lots of floor space.
-Cant fit long objects in the car...
- Seat angles do not adjust (good for car boosters)
- Seats still slide and tilt forward if you want to maximize cargo area.
- Seats can be slow and only adjust electronically.
New 7 Seater:
- Rear view is usable due to the 2nd row middle seat being not as tall.
- Third row not claustrophobic anymore due to the middle headrest allowing better view of the cabin.
- There are a lot less electronic movements (for better or worse) the middle seat moves mechanically. Its quicker, but not as cool.
- 60/40 Split
- Floor space kindof disappears a bit with the fold flat 2nd row.
- Long objects would fit with everything folded flat.
- Feels more like a real 7 seater SUV. (for better or worse)
- Fit and finish on 2nd row feels more "normal" and well made, but not as "high end" and tech.
- Seems a bit harder to get into the 3rd row.
I ended up getting the old version 7 seater, (due to inventory discounts on the slightly older model), I really can't say which I would prefer more everything equal.
I think both are fine options, but get the new 7 seater version if you really need the fold flat because you might be sleeping in the car, transporting odd shaped objects, or if you REALLY need to be able to see with your own eyes out the back.
P.S. I actually really think the 6 seater is the best version; but we really did need 7 seats for carpool purposes.