Excellent Steven, I agree with your points, and improving the default scenery is now the most important thing I want to see.
I have noticed it looking much better at altitude than before, so I have noticed the progress you talk about.
For me, using Orbx UK XP12 version, or auto ortho with X-world were a revelation, though the load times for the Orbx are quite long.
I generally test my mods at RAF Lossiemouth, but the default scenery around there is truly awful.
MSFS though initially took my breath away, at certain altitudes, like you said, about 1,000 to 2,000ft doesn't look that good to me, it certainly isn't a perfect solution.
Thanks for informing us that there may be light at the end of the tunnel for Xplane scenery.
Al