BMW 520d

BMW 520d

Model/Engine size: 520d SE
Fuel: Diesel
Fuel economy combined: 57.6 mpg



The new BMW 520d manages 57.6 mpg, with emissions of 129 g/km CO2, highly impressive for this class of car.

Think back a few years and no one would have thought that a large executive saloon would be able to achieve almost 60 mpg. The new 520d shows how successful BMW has been in revolutionising the efficiency of its cars - without any sacrifices in the driving experience.

The BMW 5 Series was the first model to introduce the controversial 'flame' design which split opinion. However we've always been fans so we were keen to see if the latest design would also hit the spot. We think that BMW has got it right again with a dynamic and thoroughly contemporary design which keeps the 5 bang up-to-date.

There could be some disappointment that the new model only slightly edges ahead of the previous one in terms of fuel consumption, achieving 57.6 mpg rather than 55.4 mpg. However in the context of the previous model being class-leading BMW has done well to keep moving forward from a very high base.

The new 5 Series comes with an array of EfficientDynamics technologies. The BMW 520d is the first 5 Series to come with Auto Start-Stop, reducing the engine idle period when coming to a short stop. All manual gearboxes also come with an Optimum gearshift indicator to help drivers know when to change gear to optimise the car's efficiency. Brake Energy Regeneration, which recharges the vehicle's battery during engine over-run, is part of the 5 Series Saloon's standard specification.

The new 5 Series is evolutionary rather than revolutionary but when you are starting so close to perfection that isn't necessarily a bad thing. With a brilliant blend of quality, style, performance and driving entertainment it remains our favourite.

Fuel economy extra urban: 65.7 mpg
Fuel economy urban: 47.9 mpg
CO2 emissions: 129 g/km
Green rating: VED band D - first year £0
Weight: 1715 Kg
Company car tax liability (2010/11): 18%
Price: £28,045 (From £28,045 to £50,865)
Insurance group: TBC
Power: 184 bhp
Max speed: 141 mph
0-62mph: 8.1 seconds
DPF: Yes