Nothing wrong with the new graphical user interface and need to use the AERO interface.
You shouldn’t disable AERO anyway so why asking about AERO dependency?
Finally Steinberg’s software’s “look” are up to date 2015/2016 and also take advantage of all new GPU and multi CPU’s technology in all modern systems. In fact the new graphical interface include the new mixer and all the functions that comes with it, are one of the best things that has happen in Cubase/ Nuendo in a long time.
That you can change color UI of own liking and use of icons is another great thing in Cubase. Its a minority that want to go backwards. The majority LOVE the new Cubase PRO 8. 
Keep up the good Job Steinberg!