I particularly like the good game motivation. Like many tasks during the race, who bring an additional star, which in turn activate a competitions etc. Even the "ownen" of career competitions within their own friends list, I find a nice thing. So you still have additional incentive to go good times.
Ansich I'm a fan of "simulation", but could certainly learn a lot at EA / NFS these things in game motivation. It has surprised myself because NFS has been ansich is with me an arcade / Kiddi stamp since NFSU.
For me, a nice cheap variety, after I played Forza3 in Career Mode.