Don't rule out the relatively new GT-series CF pods -- instead of 13xx, these will be 3xxx. These use a new, lighter weight CF tubing, making the pod about 1/2 pound lighter than the equivalent 13xx pod, are purportedly even more rigid and carry more weight. Most important for me however, is they have legs that don't twist, so you now easily lock and unlock a Gitzo leg with just one
hand(!) Of course they are more expensive than the 13xx series...
I just picked up a GT-3540XLS and like it a lot. It is basically a 1325 with a fourth extension leg so it extends much taller than the 1325 (I am 6'-6" tall and this is another great feature for me). It will go flat to the ground wit the flat plate and no center-column attached. HOWEVER! These new pods have a new center column design -- you can remove the column and mount the top plate directly to the column slider tube with the hook for low-level work. Pretty slick design, but not as rigid as the flat top plate. As for rigidity in the legs, the difference is not noticeable to me, and frankly don't see how this 35 series can carry any more weight than the 13 series, so I suspect that is a more marketing hype than reality. However, the new style leg locks are not supposed to be over-tightened, and moreover self-tighten as weight is applied, so perhaps this is where Gitzo is justifying the spec for added load capacity.
FWIW,