So I broke down a got a physical copy. Figured if I hated it could always trade it in. Turns out this game is pretty damn fun. I'm still in Rookie cup or whatever, but so far I'm really enjoying the way driving feels. Sense of speed is dead on. Love how the car shakes when you start to hit top speed and all the other little details. Sound track is great, definitely has a more upbeat vibe compared to GT. I'm pretty casual when it comes to racing games, an enthusiast might want more options like vehicle tuning and assists toggling, but for people who just want a fun racing game, which *looks* realistic, and makes you feel like an expert driver, then Driveclub is spot on.
Shame the online features are pretty much dead, it would an extra element to the game to finish it off. On the bright side of online not working, at least it lets you play and it doesn't knock you out of a game if your client times out on connecting or gets disconnected.