I think the big thing here is perception. The CVT shifts alot smoother and more linear than an old EAT. So when you floor it, it doesn't jump to 5k rpm, but rather gradually adjusts the gears as it accelerates to get you up to speed. Whereas a regular EAT will slam it down a gear and give you a jerk back, making it feel like you have better acceleration. And if you feel the need for a quick jerk or a lower gear, you have paddles handy to take advantage of it. However after a year and half, I generally only use the paddles to hold a gear down a hill.
I have had my OB next to a few cars when merging or pulling from a stop light, while I'm not trying to drag race them, I have yet to have any other comparable 4cyl car pull away from me, the CVT just holds steady rpms and accelerates. It takes some getting used to, but IMO the CVT is far superior to any EAT because it offers a smooth delivery of power.