"level of scale finesse may not be good enough" >> Really Noe?l, I doubt this is hardly the case.
Have you taken a look at some of their latest Offerings?.
I can only vouch for what I have bought which is mostly SR related and I can say I am astounded when you view the details on some of these models now from Hornby.
The Original condition MN are a Fantastic model. The S15 is sublime, Fast Becoming a Favourite of mine with excellent running from taking it out of the box and onto the track, the Cab interior detail is excellent to look at. The H Class is a beauty, similarly their class 71 is a nice model too. The SR Maunsell Coaches, Gresley's, Pullmans are Fab runners (no wobbly coaches or fuzzy demarcation between colours) and excellent fine Details.
While there undeniably are some dogs from earlier years I do think they have finesse with there current High level offerings which match the 071, 201s easily.
Maybe take another look when you next passing a model shop