Also, at least on the two griddles that I have, the coating on the new griddle is not as smooth or shiny as it is on my original one

Solid nonstick coating and easy to clean

The coating on the pan is easy to clean with warm soapy water.

The KitchenAid Gourmet Griddle has noticeably superior nonstick coating as far as food slipping off the surface.

I like is the rubbery coating on the handles, provides a very secure, non-slip grip.

I also like the spatula, though I use my own silicone ones  MIU France Set of 4 Silicone Spatulas, Pastel Colors , which work great, and do not damage the coating as much as provided metal turner does.

The coating is easy to clean and the spout on the end makes for easy clean up

Don"t waist your time... on my 4th one and still warped (comes in the package that way)