I get the analogy at the end, but it isn't one I would use. I suppose a more apt analogy is hanging a painting over a cracked or damaged yet still structurally sound wall. The wall is solid, it will hold, but you're not addressing the problem; you're just making it look better.
All in all, the review is pretty fair. Points were docked for lacking originality. It comes down to what you're looking for. If you're expecting a Mario Kart game to be revolutionary and super-innovative, you're barking up the wrong tree. Neal mentioned something about Mario Kart 8 being Mario Kart 7 except on Wii U. If that's the case, sold. That's really what I want because I merely tolerate handheld games. The changes to battle mode are a bummer, but I rarely play it anyway. Ultimately, it seems like the game gets the racing part right and that's fine by me. Still, very few games are worth full price to me these days and Mario Kart 8 is no exception.