Thanks for the helpful tips. Good points to consider.
I've already got 50k EQM on NW this year, but my GE UG % (mainly MSP-PHX) is 20%. Oftentimes, even PEs don't get upgraded on this run, esp. Oct-May.
You're right - I've considered trying to get PE. But to fly another 25K EQM for the "hope" of getting UGs (and miles which are increasingly harder to use) is asking a lot, especially as decent Y seats (which I'd be looking for for those 25K more EQM needed) are very limited across the board (esp. MSP-PHX) & w/CoachChoice further limiting them.
Furthermore, looking at NW's coach seat maps on upcoming PHX trips, for instance, there are typically either no "free" Premium seats left and/or no free aisles. Some of the non-stop flights are actually sold out (I have to be on the FFO).
As far as matching prices, quite a bit of the time at least, that doesn't seem to be typical on this run, especially for flights departing w/in 7 days. For example, Sun Country's OW VIP econ. rate on the FFO on 3/27 is $147 vs. $358 on NW. I could fly guaranteed FC OW on Sun Country for $247. By the way, there is NO CHANGE FEE on Sun Country's First Class tickets!
Other dates further out are closer in price, for economy. But for FC, it's no comparison. Each and every time, Sun Country FC is $247 OW vs. NW's $525-$709 (when it's available - the FFO is often not even avail. for purchase even a week out - making my UG chances, even as a PE, pretty slim I would think). Bottom line: $247 FC on Sun Country is often less expensive than NW's Coach OW.
The VIP program is basically $244/year. I'm making that up on one OW FC ticket over NW's program (and on two RT FC tickets over SC's normal price). You're right though, if I just planned on flying SC once or twice, it would not worth it.
IF I was getting (more) consistently upgraded on NW, it may be another story. But I am not and don't forsee being, even as PE. Also, I'm so ticked at NW for their stupid CoachChoice that I'm boycotting them anyway. Thankfully, the above makes it easier for me to do that.