Yes, it can block the view of the lower part of the PFD, even in it's mid position. The Classic is even worse. If you use the eye position markings, you can hardly see the HSI at all. I tend to sit a bit higher as a result.
As the control column is used for about only about 1% of the flight, it would be much better positioned to the side - as in the Airbus, thus leaving useful space for the important things such as eating and reading the newspaper.
