I've driven a few BMW's before and Jap/German rivalry aside, it's a very nice car.
It's very difficult for me to not compare it to the Evo, as I appreciate they are about as different as two cars can be, for different audiences.
What I liked:
Very refined engine - I'm used to the engine in question as its the same/similar to my mates E9X 320d Sport. Very difficult to audibly tell it's a diesel when you are on the move. Although the idle gives the game away.
Zero road noise. Tough one for me. Very nice for cruising, but at the same time made me feel something was missing and removed the experience/involvement.
Planted feel. Felt very stable and grippy, if a little high, but again I'm used to low cars.
Leather was nice and the cabin was too - nice place to be. However, you know better than anyone that this doesn't factor high on my list.
Lots of toys, most of which I didn't get to use.
Very solidly built. You know it's a quality car before you've even got in it.
Heated seats - Made me feel like a sell out but I loved them.
What I didn't like:
Biggest thing was steering feel. I hated it. Massive deadzone and very vague. Whereas the car was very planted and confidence inspiring I didn't feel connected to the wheels at all and had no idea what was going on in corners. Again spoilt with the Evo, 2 turns lock to lock and so direct and precise. Appreciate the difference in target audience.
Engine obviously needed more power. Totally not used to diesels though, hit the limiter by accident whilst cruising
Indicators - may be just me being a bit tentative in someones elses car, but I prefer indicators that physically stay on. I appreciated that they are only included for show however
Thought the bonnet was slightly high, really minor but I've got used to it sloping away to nothing. I can barely see mine - just the road.
Prefer grippier seats but can't moan at this, different target market.
Conclusion is that it is a very nice car. I've never disputed BMW make a great car, just that they aren't for me. It's just not direct, focussed or raw enough for me, although I could certainly see myself driving one as a daily.
Bottom line - I want to drive an M. I did enjoy driving it, but I so want to try one with the power I want and I'm praying that the steering will be different although Will didn't seem to think so
It's nearly got me wanting to offer you the keys to the Evo. I want you to experience the other side of the fence too

We'll see how I feel at the next meet
As for "bestest car ever"? Don't push your luck

I can see what you are on about though, they are striving for the most complete package, and they aren't far off for a more mainstream driver, just the compromises they've made affect a driver like me the most.