I agree it's an acquired taste but with the right colour and wheels I think they're a very imposing car.
I seriously considered a 530d SE GT before plumping for the F30 because at the time they were heavily discounted on contract hire by BMW. (They're now about £200 plus VAT per month more.) Once I'd added everything on to the F30 there was a pound in it per month. Everything comes standard on the GT. Plus a panoramic roof I believe.
I had a play in one in the showroom and really liked it. Massive. Pillar-less doors too