Having done some of the certification flying on the 427, I can say with some assurance that the single engine performance of the machine was pretty amazing. The single hydraulic system was a bit of disappointment, although Bell's VFR fix made it easier than a Bell 206 to land hydraulics off - it was not suitable for IFR.
Stretching it will help for the EMS market, but Bell needs to do something to make it a total package - single pilot IFR, Category A out of the box as standard would help. Needs an AFCS for IFR.
Digital fuel controls were excellent.
And the pre-start checks need to be made automatic- it's not as slick as the EC-135 to get going. Still stuck in the mid-60's in terms of cockpit interface. And a bit more legroom in the cockpit, please.
Hope they get it right this time.