New i-Drive controller - any good?

[dickyt]

Just ordered a new 520d M-Sport Touring, and noticed on the website that the interior shots show the i-drive controller button / wheel with a series of other buttons around it. I know that hey have introduced a number of "Shortcut" buttons on the centre console below the CD slot - but I was not aware that they had changed the actual "wheel" feature.

Is this now fitted as standard on all models, and has anyone used it ? Hopefully it should make navigating your way around the i-drive easier. Used it for the last 3 years, and whilst OK for some things, I would welcome a few shortcuts - some of the menu's take far too long to get to.

Thanks