I have two N52 powered vehicles. A manual 128i and an F10 528i (2011 only...get one while you can).
The ZF 8 speed is the first, and so far only, auto transmission that I actually really like. it is perfectly suited to the 5 series. Shifts are like magic. Imperceptible except by change in exhaust tone. Whoever did the programming nailed it. Far as I can tell they seem to wear well. We did a fluid swap at around 90k and it was still somewhat translucent. no weirdness in the the pan.
BMW uses the transmission locked in manual mode in the M235i race car.
If my 528i ever got into a total loss accident I'd swap the drivetrain to an auto 128i in a heartbeat.
I also have a ZF8 in my landrover. no issues.
My 10 speed ford/chevy trans in my F150 is good....but not a ZF.