Have a 15 year old model that's outlived and out-performed several more expensive uprights. Thought it was about time I bought a replacement since the head attachment on the old one is kept on with tape. The pet brush seemed a good addition. Seems they've actually improved the quality overall and it still sucks in the best possible way - I like feeling it trying to suck up the wood floor. The hose and body are better than the old model. The HEPA filter attaches to the rear exterior exhaust. It still has the same stiff cord that has to be wrapped around the bottom for storage, but that's the trade off for a vacuum you can carry while cleaning steps, I guess.