I had my first IET trips on Wednesday - 800005/006 from Bristol Parkway to Cardiff and then later the same pair from Newport to Bristol Parkway after doing 67015 on the WAG Express from Cardiff
So, to first impressions: the vestibule and gangway do seem to feel a bit cramped, circulating space in the saloons was okay though! I like the interior ambiance and colour scheme - some people have called it too sterile but it seems modern and fairly classy to me. The seats and carpets seem to show dirt and debris easily though. The 'traffic light' seat reservation system and transparent luggage rack are nice touches.
Talking of seats, they did feel
very firm upon sitting down but they were supportive, and I didn't have any aches or pains after my 45 minute journey, probably need a longer trip to see if they remain comfortable, but I think they will. Not a fan of the seat fabric, far too coarse for my liking, seat back tables were stiff to operate but they should loosen up with use, they also have a slide out part to support laptops. I bet most people would struggle to find the power sockets if they didn't know where they are, there is a (small) sticker about them underneath the window though.
Legroom is fantastic and for me it's easily the best thing about the trains, non-priority airline seating on trains is usually short on legroom for me, on the IET I can stretch out on any seat.
Some people have commented that the lighting is too bright - to be honest if you're used to the GWR HST trailers then I'd say it's actually an improvement as the light is diffused.
Even on diesel they seem very quiet inside and out, I noticed a few clunks and rattles from components under the floor, but nothing intrusive. Wind noise when another train passes is negligible, likewise in the Severn Tunnel. The braking performance feels impressive, a couple of times almost too impressive and I felt myself lurching forward, but I'm guessing this is due to drivers still getting used to them?
Not sure if I like the catering arrangements, the trolley was blocking the aisle (a common problem on trains with trolleys IME), preventing both passengers and the guard from walking down the train. I wonder if a buffet in what is the composite coach would have been a better option, yes it would take up considerable space, but so does the kitchen in the First Class driving car... It was going to be a compromise either way of course!
Personally I never use on train catering so I suppose no catering and extra seating would suit me, but I have absolutely no wish to see catering crews out of work and some passengers will view catering as a 'must have' so that's a non-starter.
The recorded announcements on the PIS are unobtrusive but have a very long pause between messages on approach to stations.
My overall impression is of a stylish, solid, well built train that has a few small flaws and a couple of major ones, but (leaving aside the procurement) they stand a good chance of them being viewed as a success - but it might take some time to reach that, especially given the teething issues.
But they will hardly be the first trains to have a difficult introduction!