Richard in NC

I want to drive a new CTS just to see how it truely does compare. Its a commendable job by GM but I doubt it has matched the 3 or 5 totally.
I personally prefer the clean understated look of the E60 LCI interior. I've not been a fan of squishy soft leather since the '75 Imperial.
I'm betting the CTS-V (and latest RS6) hasten's the bumping of the M5 horsepower. I'm betting 520hp to 550hp in '09 and with a broader torque curve. At least I hope they do that.

I agree with the preference of iDrive over most other interfaces I've briefly looked at. The Infinity M is worst with a long reach to a hard to use knob.
I wish journalists would spend more time with iDrive so that some may actually get it. For example they still wonder why there are 2 map displays. Duh!! You can put the map left and instructions or trip computer right, or put the map right, any other display left, and instructions in the HUD. Nicely flexible and well thought out. However, even though the LCI iDrive is better, I do think that BMW still needs to improve some iDrive functionality and in other areas too. The steering wheel buttons were better on the E39 with cruise nicely accessible and all radio functions on the left and not split up like the E60. I still mix up the cruise lever and turnsignal on occasion even though I've driven the E63/E60 for 1 1/2 years.