1) Apple has always been expensive. I remember buying a PowerBook G3 for $2500 and that wasn't even maxed out (The maxed out was tons more).
2) I like the idea of having a dedicated port USB-C to actually use what you find necessary. This allows for more customization in ways. Yes it's too early jump to all USB-C,but perhaps Apple is used to the complaining based on historical moves.
3) No this isn't the most recent CPU. Just like the Apple Watch 1, it's never smart to buy a generation 1 of a revamped platform. This is common knowledge for anyone who has ever been screwed over purchasing Gen 1. It has the same name as MacBook Pro, but it's Gen 1.
4) In 2017 32gb RAM versions and newer processor version will most likely ship. If you have a MacBook Pro right now, yes this is a very stupid purchase. However, for those who don't have a Pro, and are looking to get into that realm, this is a tempting purchase.
5) Like #4, stop complaining about the Lightning ports. Who will need full power of all four TB3 / USB-C ports? Some will, though wait if that's really your deal.
All in all, a nice device. However, if you have a 2012-2015 Macbook Pro, this is not the device for you what-so-ever. Apple probably realizes this, and it's good that they still support the "older" platforms.
This is all being typed on a customized 11-inch 2012 MacBook Air i7 with 8 gigs of RAM and am still happy with it. Everyone was expecting a MacBook Pro that would make anyone who purhased a laptop in the last 2-4 years freak out. That's not good business sense, and Apple is making a smart decision. I for one will go to MBPro, though not for the first generation. If I had a Mac laptop that was earlier than 2012, I'd give it a consideration. However, I'm definitely looking forward to updates to the Pro line next year +. Apple is good at creating a device that survives a lot longer than their PC counterparts, and that's a good thing.