I think you could make the same points with a cooler head. It would be easier to read and address.
Markers
There have been a number of posts about how to get back the set-from and to key bindings that were in old versions of Sonar/Cakewalk. Basically, they boil down to using the key bindings thing.
Colors
I'm sick of hearing about colors. You can do a lot with colors in Sonar. I just don't care too much. Frankly, making it all work in gray tones probably helps the color-blind contingent (if there is one).
Screensets
I like em.
File-Naming
Personally, this isn't an issue for me, but I could see how it could bug you. For me, once the files are loaded into Sonar, I rarely return to the file system without using Export and then I can name it as I like. I have gone in before and noticed the takes over 800 or something haha.
Synth Rack
Really? I just hit B and do what I need to do. I hadn't noticed any real difference to my workflow b/c the Synths were moved.
Don't forget the Feature Request site.
http://www.cakewalk.com/Support/contact/Feature-Request I know you're complaining about changes in the software and that you want it back the way it was. IMHO, it's easier to just submit a feature request if you want it reverted. If you have a fair argument, I'm sure it'll be considered.
And I totally think Sonar has been getting steadily better. I'm not sure it's going to win the race against Linux, but for now, it's still the most awesome DAW I've got and I wouldn't consider using 8.5 when I have X3.