Actually, I got my driver's license like 10 years ago...and have rarely ever driven.
I would like an incredibly realistic driving simulation that renders a realistic virtual Edmonton so I can practice driving without any fear of screwing up a real car or anyone else's (or any pedestrian). I could tighten my turns (supposedly I keep turning too wide) and practice and improve my driving skills without spending a penny on gas. Perhaps the simulator could throw unexpected things my way to see if I can react properly.
If everyone had an incredibly realistic driving simulator at home and used it often, there would be fewer accidents on actual streets.
That's where realism might be very helpful. Otherwise, it's becoming less worth it to keep upping the visuals, and at some point anyway people won't be able to tell the difference.