I'm a flight instructor & I have only ever experienced one "bad" Nexstar. I have also encounted "bad" versions of just about every other trainer out there. The Nexstar package is comprehensive & the plane has a very wide flight envelope -- from very tame & subdued, to quick & aerobatic, depending on the use, or non-use of the add-on devices and the C-of-G location. It is easy to fly slowly & easy to fly quickly, it is good looking, large & easily visible, not very sensitive to cross winds, has a great power plant etc, etc. The smooth shape, plus the flight sim & FXi engine are probably worth the extra $100 in themselves. I think that it is a good package.