In my opinion maxing E is simply better due to the fact that you have instat aa aoe reset that can provide some insane harras, and maxing E reduces it's recharge time. Item build seems good ,however I'd change Zephyr for something which will give me more survability simply because Vi is a meele champion and she wants to be all in.

How the hell can you say Iceborn Gaunlet doesn't add much? CDR/MANA/ArM all things Vi wants. Not the mention a 125% sheen proc, and an AoE slow which helps Vi not get kited. Iceborn Gauntlet is far superior to Triforce/Frozen Mallet

Too expensive for the use.

Why is hydra not even mentioned...? It gives lifesteal which as you said, works really well with her W. In addition to your E, it gives you awesome teamfighting potential.

Did the math, Q is far superior if you can charge it (for 1,25s...) and the overall utility increases a lot.

I've tried maxing Q first but as with many gap closers the damage increase is mediocre. You won't always charge up your Q fully and you can't guarantee hitting it either. The mana cost going up is also a thing worth noting.

Maxing E seems to be best since W is reliant on auto attacking constantly.

I like the guide, i also agree on most viewpoints. The only flaw i can find is your opinion about Trinity Force. Vi actually can abuse the proc very much and very easily. If u go for a burst Q>AA>E>AA>E>AA>R>AA, and it's also a very good sustain dps item. I'm not suggestint it's a must-have but u disposed it like it has no sinergy, wich isn't true.

MAX E MAX E MAX E

Yeah, i think you should max e first, and also, play in 9/21. If you want play toplane, don't forget u must be tanky for fight other bruiser like Irelia, Olaf, Darius etc...
And anyways the defense masteries are op in s3 with free Tenacious and Relentless <3

I dont like to maxing Q.I think the E is the most dmg output Vi has.In the beginning of lanephase you can farm really good and can harras your enemy well without comming in his range.Normaly i prefer to max my E first and than the Q.But to skill Q first is a good choice to escape a gank early.We will see which way is better to play her after the buffs and nerfs.