I wouldn't say that the early step down is anything to worry about, if anything, yes there will be a slight fuel penalty, but more power = more fuel. You'll get a slight benefit in terms of lowering in-cylinder temperatures and EGTs so the effects should balance roughly. (from my OEM experience) However, I am not a software monkey so couldn't comment on the more indepth goings on.
I was more laughing at the lambda as a similar level in diesels makes them right smokey bastids... oh and I love the smell of petrol.