So, I just received the new mountain. Some observations:
1) Looks like Lionel used the same mold as the 2005/06 release. They have added whistle steam, added functioning cab hatches, and drastically improved the coupling distance between the tender and cab.
2) The color seems a little lighter than the 2005/06. See the last pic. The bottom unit is the earlier unit. Not enough to complain about. Looks good.
3) I love the white walled tires. Great touch.