Hi,
I do a lot of driving in France and when I have time I prefer to use the local roads and take in the sights.
That said, the French Motorway system is worth every Euro in my opinion, they have good surfaces, are quiet and therefore safe and the service areas plentiful, clean and pleasant to visit. When i am in a hurry or have large mileages to cover they offer good value for money.
We could learn a lot from them!