I like the swap, the radio high and the HVAC Controls low, reminds me of the Slantnose. That is the way they are laid out in there, you seem to mess with the radio more that the HVAC. I never understood why designers put the radio in a hard to reach spot. I drove a Honda Passport/Isusu Trooper at one point and the radio was actually mounted so low it was touchin the transmission hump. Also, the late 80 and 90's chevys with the radio behind the colum shifter next to the speedometer, but the tape deck was almost infront of the passenger.
I think the bricknose radio placement is not user friendly.... I drove E-2 last night, and it was out of reach. Should have kept it high in the dash, and closer to the driver.... like the Slantnose......