Well after a couple of weeks I can say I'm very impressed so far. BMW have fixed the paint defects and scratch and I've fitted the luggage rails in the boot.
I had a 35d as a loaner which was run in and could therefore be played with. All I can say is
It went like the proverbial rocket! The 40d has even more to pkay with, and another two gears. The 6sp box is not as smooth as the 8sp, as would be expected, but giving the 35d a bootful is very impressive, especially given it weighs 2.2 tonnes! The torque is very very powerful once the turbos spool up.
The only other car we have had with similar performance was SWMBO's Seat Leon Cupra R from 2003 with the 210bp 1.8 20V turbo engine and not much body weight. I think the X6 may even be quicker.
Winter tyres will be fitted this week which might improve grip over the standard tyres and I need to add another 1,000 miles or so to get the basic running in finished - no volunteers please
We might even make a meet if there's one in this direction-ish.