The console commands that we're adding into the autoexec file simply change the settings that are available in the game. Some of them do not have a toggle or slider in the options (like the F5 camera sensitivity), but anyone could enter the console and discover these settings themselves. The autoexec.cfg file saves the user from entering the commands in the console each time they start a game.
Yes, this could be the edge of a slippery slope, especially if players start adjusting settings that make game play easier. As an example, I looked into the settings and found one regarding 'spin decay'. I think, obviously, changing that would be considered cheating. However, I am unable to change that setting from the console or from within options of the game. That leads me to believe that PP have allowed the console settings to change for certain aspects and options within the game (color of the meter, speed of F5 camera), but not for other settings (especially difficulty settings). I don't know this for a fact, but it's what I've deduced from testing things in the console.
Whether access to the console is cheating, I don't know. It doesn't appear to be so, since you can't seem to change anything you want - it seems you can only change the things PP allow you to. PP must believe access to the console isn't cheating, since it was raised during early access and the console remains available after game release.
EDIT: And if it's considered cheating to make the meter more easily seen by players (may have color blindness or other sight impairments or simply a different preference), doesn't that level the field with those without such sight impairments? I'm a bit on the fence, but definitely leaning far toward the console not being a "cheat".
Edited by Armand, 15 May 2016 - 07:15 PM.