What a lovely experience that was.
We took VIA Rail twice in two days: once from Quebec City to Montreal and then from Montreal to Ottawa.
The first train, I think we might have lucked out...it seemed brand new.
Lots of legs room.
The super comfy seats were nice and wide, not confining at all.
Fast WiFi connection with power outlets in the arm rests and plenty of carry-on storage to boot and this was all in your bottom-barrel economy class.
The service was attentive and the rails were smooth.
The next day the train car was a bit more blue collar.
The seats and interior seemed more like a regular commuter line, no frills (still free WiFi and outlet availability though).
Either way, this is a great way to get from point A to point B while enjoying pleasant scenery and in our particular case...it was cheaper than flying believe it or not.