antryg, a South Park season ("year") consists of 14-17 episodes actually. It's just that there's a six month gap between the first 6 episodes and the rest or so (Summer break
) that makes it feel like there are hardly any new episodes. As for the graphics, I believe they're capable of making a new episode in less than a week (!), which they've demonstrated on quite a few occasions by throwing in elements and jokes based on current events.
As for this season, especially "The Death of Eric Cartman" was classic; the rest varied from great to so-so (the episode with Cartman hunting down hippies especially felt somewhat tired and lazy, as well as the parodies that were thrown in - but it still had its moments).