I, for one, think EA have drastically improved their pathetic physics engine. Shift feel much more realistic now (not as realistic as TDU/GTR2 Etc..) but a shedload more realistic than the Undercover/Most Wanted physics. You can actually spin out!!!!!! :eek: You have the options to turn the driving aids off, too. So if you really want to give yourself a challenge, you can.
Graphically, the game is visually stunning. If there is one gripe to the graphics, it's that the vinyls on cars are very low res, so if you zoom in, you can easily see the pixellation. Apart from that, though, the scenery is beautifully crafted, the car models look higher poly (even though they're re-used models) and the addition of Cockpit camera really makes this game for me. I also love the way the cockpit blurs as you go faster, to simulate tunnel vision.
Graphically: 8/10
Physically: 7/10
Gameplay: 7/10
Audibly: 9/10
I'd recommend this game, but I wouldn't say it's worth the full £30, perhaps wait until it's come down in price.