Bmw 520d

Bmw 520d

Anyone who buys the new BMW 520d can bask in the knowledge that not only have they saved some money, they can also look forward to a more comfortable ride than in much more expensive 5-Series variants.As the cheapest model in the 5-Series range, the 520d misses out on the controversial run-flat tyres fitted to other variants and instead gets conventional rubber in standard trim.Criticisms of the run-flat tyres have included a relatively sharp, fidgety ride quality imparted by their stiffer construction that allows them to be driven on even after they have suffered a puncture.But after driving the 520d, it’s obvious its smaller 16-inch wheel and tyre package impart a level of comfort the high-tech run-flats can’t seem to manage on other BMW models as varied as the 3-series, Mini, Z4 or X5.For once, it seems, less is definitely more, at least with the 520d.Such economy is only relative as the 520d still costs $79,900, which seems a lot for a four-cylinder sedan.But that price does include leather upholstery, satellite navigation (with a small display on the radio fascia), multi-function steering wheel, a CD changer in the glovebox and dual-zone climate control, so it’s not exactly scantily clad.And yes, if you want larger wheels, they are optionally available and come with run-flat tyres.The 520d’s hidden talent is the engine, which is the latest small capacity BMW turbo-diesel.
Rest assured, the 2.0-litre is quiet, smooth and reasonably well powered with 125kW and, more importantly, 340Nm of torque from as low as 1750rpm. That’s enough to propel the 1.5-tonne 520d to 100km/h from standstill in a claimed 8.6 seconds.To put that into perspective, that’s half a second quicker that what’s claimed for what was BMW’s previous Australian 5-Series price-leader, the 2.5-litre, petrol-powered six-cylinder 523i which, incidentally, also comes with conventional tyres.And not only is the diesel 5-Series $5000 cheaper than the petrol – unusual, but explained by the lack of two cylinders – it is also far more frugal. Even with its standard six-speed automatic gearbox the 520d returns a claimed 6.1L/100km compared with 9.3L/100km for the 523i.That means the diesel can conceivably cover more than 1100km on its 70 litre fuel tank and, if the owner resists the temptation to delve into BMW’s wheel and tyre option list, in a little more comfort as well.