It is true that in the past, many times driving models, extremely studied and manufactured, we wondered if what we drove could be even better in the future. It is again some moments, like testing the new 520d, that you think that after all, yes, there are margins! The 8the generation of the 5 Series is a fact and in addition to the purely electric i5 we got our hands on the 520d. This is the diesel version with a two-liter engine and an output of 197 PS. Those who have driven its ancestors know that this is a model in the brand's range that uniquely combines the spaces, the joy of driving with the tremendous ease (and economy) in covering long distances. Upon hearing the code 520d, the first thing we thought was to go to the map of Greece and set the place where we would travel with her. So it happened!
The doors close with a heavy distinctive sound and the journey begins with the original destination of Kalavryta. It is a nice cocktail of routes, since it includes a lot of National Road, but also a satisfying serpentine uphill route. After all, the nationwide presentation of the BMW X3 took place there a few years ago, so the route has a lot of BMW flavor!
Grow up
As soon as you look at her, you realize that she has grown up. Compared to the generation it replaces, it is 97 mm longer, 32 mm wider and 36 mm taller, while the wheelbase has increased by 20 mm. For comparison, it's just 19mm shorter in length compared to the 5the 7 series generation that was released from 2008 to 2015! The increase in dimensions has a positive impact on the spaces, while we would add that the designers have done such a good job that the 5 m body looks extremely stylish.
It remains, however, a genuine BMW 5 series, which means that it combines the classic proportions with the sporty image to which we are accustomed from the Bavarians. Its design is clean, simple and widely accepted, since it has avoided bold elements, such as the large vertical kidneys in the grille that we have encountered in other models of the brand. We would say, in fact, that this is one of the most balanced and charming BMWs of the modern era. A luxurious sedan that, however, does not renounce its roots. In our test model, the image is flattered by the M equipment package, which always gives the brand's models that something extra in appearance, but also substance. In the case of our test car, there was additionally the optional Professional adaptive suspension, as well as 20″ diameter M light alloy wheels that completed the 520d's subtle but impressive style.
New morals
Inside, the differentiation with the past is very strong. Basically, if you remove the BMW badge from the steering wheel, almost nothing resembles the previous generation models! The design goal was to reduce physical switches, which is achieved through the digitization of functions. The heart of the new concept is the BMW Curved Display consisting of a 12.3″ information screen and a 14.9″ control screen. The quality of the graphics, but also the possibilities of personalization are impressive. In fact, it's like being in your living room… 10 years later! The environment takes off at night, as the ambient lighting comes into play, which drives the kids crazy, but also appeals to the adults. In the context of minimalism, the traditional air ducts have also disappeared. You feel the air moving and only if you follow its path with your hand do you realize where it comes from! This modern approach requires, however, some small adjustment period, while we would like some switches (mainly the air conditioning) to have a physical form, since many times a process is required to make a change.
Newly designed sports seats are standard equipment, while the new 5 Series is the brand's first model to feature a fully vegan interior as standard, including the seat surfaces, dashboard, door panels, and new haptic steering wheel feedback. The spaces are expectedly excellent for the 5 lucky passengers, with enough interior width, as well as their luggage.
The diesel is still here
The 520d is proof that diesel engines still have a future. With a displacement of 1995 cc it produces 197 PS and 400 Nm of torque that appears as early as 1500 rpm. This means that you can move nimbly and economically without pushing the speedometer to the red. In practice it impresses and this is no accident. Behind the excellent result lies many years of experience, but also development. The two-liter unit is assisted by a 48V mild hybrid system, while it is combined with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission. Improvements have been made to many mechanical parts, among others: the crankcase where pistons with reduced friction are used, the turbo where it has improved performance, but also the injection system.
Luxury lorry
Your mood is lifted from the moment you saw her. It continued as soon as you got in and it peaks when you drive her. The driving position is correct, while the driver-centric profile remains. The engine comes to life without you realizing it. Forget what you knew about diesel engines of the past. Vibrations are absent and only under full load will it be heard without, however, disturbing. Handling is impressive for a sedan of this size, helped by the four-wheel steering that's part of the optional Professional suspension. Damping is very good, although higher-profile tires, which we'll find in BMW's catalog, combined with smaller than our test car's 20″ rims, would certainly help.
EVALUATION (OUT OF 10)
BMW 5 Series Sedan 520d
MOTOR 9
PERFORMANCES9
consumption 8
ROAD BEHAVIOR 9
DRIVER SATISFACTION 9
COMFORT/SPACES 8
SECURITY 9
FUNCTIONALITY 7
TECHNOLOGY 8
VALUE FOR MONEY 7
total83
So, after having a stress free experience in the city, you look for the toll booths, which will open in front of you to travel far with her. There she really unfolds all her graces. The stability is excellent and the noise level very low. The frame looks very solid and the suspension manages to control the big body effectively. For your part, you have to pay attention to the meter readings, because it's easy to lose your mind and go way over the legal limit! Going up the bends towards the ski resort of Kalavryta, he rose to the occasion with claims. It impressed us with its balance (the weight distribution is 50:50 front-rear), with its grip, but also with its neutral behavior. Even with the electronics off (the off button is now deep within the multimedia screen menus rather than on the center console) it's extremely friendly. However, from the list of extras, we would also choose the active anti-roll bars, since in some cases – which, of course, have nothing to do with the profile of a limousine but with that of a BMW – we would like more concentrated slopes in the corners. Without thinking about economy, without going anywhere with economy in mind, the 520d closed our test with an average consumption of 7.7L/100km, an impressive performance by any measure.
Desirable, even if you are single
The 520d is quite simply a highly lovable luxury sedan. You don't have to have a big family to lust after it. Charming on the outside, modern on the inside and most of all a pleasure to drive, whether you're moving around town or traveling out at high speeds. In all of this, the diesel engine plays its role, which without drumming does its job in an excellent way, offering very good performance with impressive economy.
specifications
MODEL BMW 5 Series Sedan 520d 2024 TIMH €69.200 FEES €98
MOTOR 1995, Turbo, 4 Cylinder, Inline FUEL OIL Oil
POWER kW(PS)/rpm 142(197)/4,000 TORQUE Nm/rpm 400/1.500-2.750
TRANSMISSION Automatic, 8-speed, rear-wheel drive
PERFORMANCES 0-100 in 7.3 sec, final 233 km/h
CONSUMPTION/CO2 5,1 L/100km, 140 g/km
BMW 5 Series Sedan 520d 2024
FOR ROAD BEHAVIOR, RIDE QUALITY, DESIGN, ENGINE, CONSUMPTION, RANGE.
AGAINST AIR CONDITIONING AND AIR DUCT CONTROLS YOU NEED TO GET USED TO.
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