I don't agree with the argument that CLOD's terrain has to look that way because of the greater area and its heavier use of resources.
It is the way the various resources (trees, buildings, etc) are placed on the map that is the issue here - they don't need to use more - they could use exactly the same amount but in a better more natural way.
My personal biggest hate is the constant use of the double line of trees seen in this pic. Used repeatedly along roads and rivers. Very lazy, and I have never seen anything looking like that in reality.
I'm pleased to see the general reaction to this thread. More people feel this way than I thought. Hopefully the devs will take note.