I wouldn't say it's "better" than regular soap, but it's a bit faster to use because there's no drying afterwards. Also you only need a gallon or two of water, making it perfect for winter, water shortages, or apartment dwellers. Just don't expect the stuff to smell or feel like regular car soap or you'll be weirded out...
I have to say though, that when I washed with QEW a few days ago it was finally really working well for me.
For me, the real key to not being frustrated was to a) squeeze/drain out the mitt a little bit so that you're leaving a bit less water behind, b) don't be afraid to wash slightly larger sections (unless you're doing it in the sun) and c) have really
absorbent towels! I'll have to figure out what the deal is, because the second (different) towel I had was sucking up the water well enough that I didn't even have to follow up with a MF. My problem has always been wiping up the water well, so things were flying once I switched to the better towel.
By the way I only used a gallon of mix, with no rinse (like Scott often does) and it cleaned well the entire time.
A QD afterwards is a good idea, but might not be essential as this stuff doesn't leave spots when it dries out for some reason.
PS: I forgot to mention that this QEW session was a surprise because it was sunny out and I thought I could do a regular wash. Then I went outside only to find my garden hose frozen solid!
It's not slippery like car shampoo...