Could it be?  A real update?  Well since just writing the patch notes for this one took over two hours, I'd say the answer is yes.

So what do you have to look forward to?  Here are the highlights:

• The turn model is gone, we're back to moving in sync where feel is king...  The goal is to keep the feeling of driving as much as possible.
• The HUD is extensively redone...  The speedometer and bottom panels have a physical skeuomorphic design thanks to the work of a good friend, the the upper panels are going for a clean representation of your character and the boss in opposition to you.
• There's an entirely new skid model that uses the gauge on the speedo... let your grip drop below your speed and you start to lose control!
• The Tablet holds your social media interactions as well as a number of other features.
• The World is larger in many ways to better match the scale of your vehicle.  City streets are wider and more fun, towers are taller, buildings are larger.
• Terrain had a major overhaul with more interesting decor, 3D grass and system called Microsplat that improves the frame rate of terrain maps extensively.
• The Camera is a bit more dynamic and conveys more information about your car's speed and skid situation, but in addition it will adjust to keep things you're aiming at in view.
• Two new rough-n-ready vehicles for the gangs out in the badlands are here... the Crux and the Coyote.  More to come.
• Weapons are now mounted directly on your vehicle, reflecting your armament.
• The story is getting a revamp to match the media-fueled world.  Expect to hear more about your vehicle's AI, your constant companion.
• A ton of new VFX have hit prime time, including smoke, skids and explosions that better reflect their gameplay effects.
• The UI and shell got a complete overhaul, with more to come!

That's just the beginning. Get out your downloader and rev your engines!