list of questions about '08 4.8

[GPSnV1]

I have searched this forum, read the manual, talked to my salesperson and service rep but remain either confused on some of these points or just would like another perspective.
I took delivery the first of the month but have been gone on flying trips (e.g. like Amsterdam) so have very little time in the driver's seat. That will change next month when we drive 3K or more.
(1) Heated seats
I use these year around. In my '04 4.4, the settings were perfect. #2 gave me what I wanted in the back cushion and the bottom cushion. Now in order to get the heat I want in the back cushion, I must use #3 which makes the bottom cushion too hot. Service rep says put towel in seat to absorb the extra heat. Right, that what's I want to do.
I noticed the manual shows models that allow the owner to make this adjustment. Obviously I don't have that feature, but does the dealer service department not have the capacity to make this adjustment for me?
BTW, I found it curious that the manual says using heated seats affected mpg not unlike using the a/c.
(2) steering wheel arrows
If I tap the arrows twice, they work as they should with one tap. But one tap esp on the up arrow, and it changes mode (radio to cd) not tracks of a cd, etc.
(3) USB/IPOD playlists
I am using a USB jumpdrive and the music plays fine. However, I cannot find a shortcut on the steerwheel or voice commands that gets me to the playlists. When I use the i-drive to get there, I get my eyes off the road and cross the lines, not the best way to drive this beast althuogh for some reason people get out of my way.
So if I got an IPOD shuffle would the device then play from one "album" to another or do you have to manipulate the playlist with the i-drive?
(4) Seat chimes
Like others, I find these distracting esp when all I have is a 20 lb dog in the passenger seat. The manual shows where some X5s allow the owner to tone down the chimes so cannot the service depart make this adjustment for me?
(5) Fuel
Is 10% ethanol okay or best to avoid if I keep this long term?

I have more questions but any response up to this point would be most welcome.