Finally received my new kit lens will put this on when I travel. it has the much improved focusing distance 10-15cm and better OIS anti-shake which makes this lens even more versatile.
some test shots: 1. closest distance at 16mm, no cropping 2. closest distance at 50mm, no cropping 3. 4. 1/20 sec 5. 6. 7. 8. no cropping, this is how close I can get!