Has what changed, exactly?

The only formal change since the creation of this thread is that NUA can now be used at RC (and the ones that I have looked at do put high-end stuff in the pool; whether it clears is of course a different question considering that even the most expensive suites are probably regularly sold at cash rates).

Although RC is not required to provide free breakfast to elites, I have always had it for free over the last year or two (all in Europe/ME; some stays as Titanium and some as Ambassador). Some properties include it in all room rates, and others offer it as an elite welcome gift option (beyond program requirements). YMMV.

Upgrades still seem to be quite property dependent. I believe the most likely ones for suite upgrades are those with a relatively high percentage of business travellers on specially negotiated rates, but not in touristy destinations. But it really comes down to the specific property and it probably also helps to be a recurring guest.

Elites are never upgraded to Club Lounge access (but, as discussed in this thread already, the lounges are also a lot better than other brands' "Free for all Platinum+" versions).