Thanks for the replys. Here's what I have found...

I did pry off the plastic grill behind windshield wipers and found to be clear, atleast on the pass. side where the water buildup is the worst. Since I didn't understand how these air intakes worked exactly (figured if they let air in why wouldn't they let water in?) I put a hose with a little pressure in there to flow and found a tube missing on the firewall (driver's side in tact) which directs water past the majority of the firewall, and then to the ground. This missing tube allowed water to flow over a/c metal tubing which comes thru the firewall via a gasket. This gasket leaks and allows a dribble of water in the cabin (passenger side floor). BUT does not seem enough to cause the lake which I receive when raining.

I assume if I am to check for sunroof and door pillar leaks, that i would use the hose to douse this area, after inspecting for blockages?

And I do get leakage to both side of the floor- rear floor is as bad as the front- ineteresting because there is a hump under the front seats that would seemingly stop flow from front floor to rear- if the front was the only place where water was leaking to.

Additionally, I took the plug out of the right trunk well area- this is where, in older models, the spare tire would have been located. Did this because I used to get considerable water there too.

I know this sounds like a sinking boat that needs bailing, and that it should be VERY simple to visually see where the leak is happening, but I have been in the trunk (closed!) and inside the car/cabin while a friend sprayed the car vigorously and over a considerable time, and the only place I could see water trickling was that pass. side grommet on firewall- very minimal.

This is not a rusty car at all but will look further at the rear window seals and sunroof/pillar locations (already cleaned leaves and other junk away from hood hinge areas- no rust there either)... as well as replacing the rubber hose missing on pass. firewall.

Thanks again, and given this lengthy thread's info, if you have anymore ideas- don't be shy. Thanks.