I spent another day testing and enjoying the new AirFusion Elite. It does everything the original AirFusion could do - and then even more. Both are 32 lbs: hence, the similar hull speed. Here are some thoughts, so far:

Elite advantages:
1) rides higher in the water but does not displace more water than the original AirFusion; riding a bit higher means better handling in large waves, less "swamping" from waves coming over the deck
2) much better primary or initial stability - this is a categorical difference
3) faster set-up time: takes me ten minutes, instead of 15-20 minutes on the original FUS
4) more storage - nice hatch
5) gentle "rocker" both bow and stern; helps with rough water
6) energy-efficient paddling: easier to move through the water at a good cruising speed than any other kayak I have ever paddled!! (same as original AirFusion in this respect, though)

In general, the new Elite is an all-rounder, like the Advanced Frame 10' 5"; but, being longer, it is faster and nimbler, although its price point is higher. I could not have asserted "all-rounder" status of the original FUS, which behaves more like a specialty kayak for the more advanced paddler. The Elite is for everyone (except the obese!) and is suitable in almost all conditions, on all waters, including fast-moving rivers (remove the Skeg for this). The main thing is that one can paddle this kayak for hours at a time without tiring: it moves across the water with so little effort compared, say, to hard-shells.