significantly sluggish than its predecessor (DC18)

The DC42 is initially striking that the entire engine is now integrated into the ball. The side covers act rickety, but hold.

The structural stability of the DC42 has an extremely weak. All the suckers twists when vacuuming on carpet and you cancel the handle at the "steering" fear.
In the long run you will probably get a tendon disc inflammation so stiff the sucker is to be controlled.

Also, the bracket and the opening mechanism of the refuse container act considerably less stable than in DC18.

Therefore, only 3 out of 5 stars. The suction and the concept are unbeatable after-as-before.