I'm trying to get my center console trim replaced under warranty (2 long pieces around the shifter). I haven't had time to go to the dealer yet....

Yes, the parts are very expensive for what they are, $300+ EACH for those long wood trim pieces around the shifter.

If I'm doing this out of warranty:
1.) I'd go to any good A/V installer and have them remove the trim. They do it ALL the time.
2.) I'd wet sand the wood trim piece and reapply a lacquer to make it look like new again.
3.) If you want an alumnium look, vinly wrapping is the cost effective solution. Check the E90 and E46 boards, a ton of people have done this. However, if you want the real deal, you'll have to fork over 5 figures to BMW to get the trim.