As someone who has owned many BMWs over the years (including a current 2006 X5 that is an electronics trainwreck), I can't imagine paying more for active steering.

BMWs have traditionally had excellent steering feel. My current X5 is no exception. To me that weight of the steering is part of the driving experience.

I also would be concerned about adding yet another technology item to a new BMW (expecially is the first year of production). BMW has a very mixed track record with reliability of newer technologies. Examples for me personally are Bluetooth, Reverse Parking Mirrors, and Automatic Seat Adjustments.