I just got back from test driving both gens, and while I don't have the pre-'17 experience you all do, I have a few impressions.
First of all, as far as interior, while the 16.5 is nice, the 17 is just better. I think they achieved their goal of it feeling more premium. Regarding cabin noise at highway speeds, yes, it's quieter in the new one, but I didn't think it was *that* big of a difference. Is it noticeable? Yes. Night and day? No. I'm not saying that in a good or bad way...just saying. I didn't find the 16.5 offensive in the cabin, but I can see where others would.
The exterior of the 17 really does make it look like a more expensive car, though not to the level of actual luxury cars/SUVs, but that's what I expected based on the pics. One thing I didn't like was that the chrome trim that comes to a V in the center of the bumper isn't one piece; there's a line down the middle of it, where it connects. For me, that looks a bit cheapish, though many may not notice or care.
I agree with those of you who say that no one really needs a huge amount of power, but after experiencing this 4-banger for the first time, I'm a little underwhelmed. I agree with reviews that say it's "adequate". To be fair, I'm coming from the killer Tundra 5.7, so that's obviously coloring my opinion. I used the Sport mode, which worked well enough.
In terms of handling and ride, I think my expectations might have been a bit too high. If I had driven a CRV/Rav-4/etc beforehand, maybe I'd feel a bit different, so take my opinion with a grain of salt. Some of that is based on the fact that I didn't take corners too aggressively, as I was with the sales guy and didn't get nuts since we passed several cops, but I got on it several times. As far as the ride, the 17 handled bumps a bit better, but I'd need more time to give a better assessment. Basically, I wish I could get a re-do or a second drive.
Anyway, I might test drive the CX-9, as I wonder if its bigger size and acceptable mileage might be a good compromise, for the Tundra. (I haul lots of music equipment and need the room) That said, I still liked the 5. The sales guy stated the obvious, which is that I'll get a much better deal with a 16.5. Anyway, I have some time to decide on a few thousand less for a good interior/exterior, or wait and pay more for an even better interior and see if the diesel has a bit more pep.
Hope some of this was informative.
