Re: #2 (position of large hob towards the rear), we actually wanted/needed this configuration as we have a telescoping vent hood similar to this:

We use the rear hob for our large saute pan, and its proximity to the vent hood keeps our kitchen/house quite odor-free.

We have a bridge model (Bosch Flexduction), but have not found we've used the bridge function much (if at all). If I recall correctly, the Flexduction was the only model with the largest hob in the rear, which is why we chose it.

We otherwise love our induction cooktop.

Good luck!

A bridge element is useful for two hours out of 365 days of 24 hours. Christmas and Easter pancakes do much better on an electric griddle no matter what.

I've a Bosch induction range, without bridge (last year model). It has the biggest hob in the center. At first I thought it odd, but actually works very well since the hood catches the fumes better. I use this hob daily for searing, frying, etc, so good fume capture is a plus.

Even though I do not have a bridge, I do use a plancha often. I place it across two hobs and it also works rather well. I think having a good plancha that heats evenly is key in this case.

I have a 30" Bosch with the largest hob toward the middle-rear right. I use it most of the time and it's not awkward because the small hob in front usually isn't in service at the same time. I have another on the rear left, if needed. My medium sized hob is front left and is also used frequently. A little test run at the store may help you with the layout questions. I've rarely used all four hobs at once. Most of the time 1-2 are going. Occasionally 3.

I bought a Demeyere plancha when it was deeply discounted. It's a wonderful piece of cookware and heats evenly on the left side of my cooktop. That's where the small and medium hob live. Bridging isn't necessary with such an even heating vessel. We also have an electric griddle and my husband and daughter prefer it. I've used both at once a couple of times when a bunch of people are over.

Bridging. I can't say you're wrong. If you come across one of the planchas for $99, I'd get that instead.

Largest hob. Mine is more centrally located and I like how it feels. I don't normally use the small hob in front at the same time. If I did, I might not like it as much. For reference, I cooked large batches for a family of five. I used the 11" hob nearly every day with zero "I wish" thoughts.

I have a GE Profile with the largest hob to the front and no bridge. I like the large hob at the front because I too use it the most. I find I can span a large pan, roaster or griddle over the 2 medium hobs that are on the other side, front and back. And get a pretty good bridged effect. I don't do it often, but it works fine and I expect the actual bridge wouldn't be a lot better. I love my range and have had it for 4 years.

This model also has a hob in the center back that is not induction and used for warming plates and serving bowls. I actually use that a lot. Not being induction means I can use glass dishes and ceramic bowls which wouldn't activate the hob if it was induction. I haven't seen other models with that feature.

I have a Miele which has the large burner at the front, and the small ones at the rear. Surprisingly, I use the rear ones a lot more even though my pans work just as well on the front burner. I had always used the front burner on my gas range, so I thought I'd be doing the same with my induction. I guess that's my way of saying it probably doesn't matter as much as you might think. :)

I have a Wolf 36" induction. We have five elements and five bridges, but have never used the bridges. The largest element is in the rear, right corner, and I use it the most. It's easy to reach, but it could be possible that it's not set as far back on the Wolf as it is on the models you are looking at. There isn't another element between it and the controls.

Check out Wolf's 30" CONTEMPORARY INDUCTION COOKTOP CI304C/B ($2,050)

I can't get a picture to load, but there are pictures of our induction cooktop with its flush install in my reveal thread. We LOVE the flush install. It's incredibly easy to clean because there are no raised edges to collect grime, and it blends with the countertop.

Have you had a bridge before and did you use it? I had one on my last stove and never used it once. I now have the Samsung chef collection induction, no bridge, does have a big burner in front

rantontoo, how do you like the Samsung induction cooktop?

Never had a bridge before...or Induction for that matter! Just thinking through the idea of pancakes, cooking peppers/onions, larger quantities that's all. But I'm gathering from this thread that it really isn't worth keeping it a top priority. LOVE THIS FORUM!