Anyone who want to take a stab at analyzing how this unboosted return to center system works? Is it always in effect or only when the wheel is not turned etc. Here's a piece from car and driver comparing the E90 and F30 that highlights just how important and how much potential this feature has for steering feel.
10] The slip angles producing cornering forces at the tire patches create what’s known as aligning torque—essentially, the tire trying to return to straight-ahead running. This aligning torque is fed back through the rack-and-pinion steering gear to the steering wheel. It’s part of the information the driver uses to learn what’s going on where the rubber meets the road. The K&C machine reported that aligning torque is 64 percent lower in the 328i than in the 335i. While the switch to electric power steering may improve mileage, it’s a bummer for Bimmer driving satisfaction.
Source:
http://blog.caranddriver.com/a-tale-...-so-different/