At town speeds I would expect it to use the brakes a lot more readily. At 30mph in 3rd (2000rpm) or 4th (1500rpm) there's not really all that much engine braking, and wind resistance won't slow it much either.
(Mine is a 2010 model, but I think this stuff was introduced in 2004-6, something like that... it's not exactly new technology.)
(Once or twice when going downhill without cruise control, just using the brake pedal, it "downshifted" automatically while I had the brake pedal pressed.
CVTs are computer controled and better than manual/standard for gas mileage, but with the downaide that you can't tow heavy loads.)
And the frustrating rubber-banding.
When it comes to accelerating and high RPM, I just don't mash the gas pedal down. By pressing the gas pedal on my car just enough, I can accelerate past other cars without high RPM just fine.
Gas pedal management is definately different with CVTs and other types of transmissions if you want a good driving experience.