Insurance Group: 33
MPG: 62.8
CO2: 119
0-62 Mph: 8.1 secs
BHP: 184 BHP
Range: 967 miles
PROS: Excellent fuel economy, low emissions, reasonable price, good level of equipment.
CONS: Firm ride thanks to run-flat tyres.
As you would expect from a 5 Series, the 520d handles superbly and offers impressive performance figures. The 520d SE has a 184 bhp engine delivering 280 lb-ft of torque at 1900-2750 rpm and reaches 62 mph in 8.1 seconds with a top speed of 141 mph.
Engine, tyre and road noise are all well isolated although wind noise becomes evident at higher speeds.
The suspension on the 5 Series is a little firm, but there is the option to add Variable Damper Control which, although expensive, is worth the money for the difference it makes in the performance and handling.
The 520d is a fine looking car. Although less mad-looking than its predecessor, the 5 Series still has distinctive looks and is the quintessential executive saloon car.
The 520d SE comes with leather seats, power steering, stability control, cruise control, climate control, alloy wheels, stereo, MP3 connectivity, rear parking sensors and Bluetooth as standard, with optional extras including satellite navigation for £1,580. The backseat entertainment option includes satellite navigation.
The 520d is a very safe car with six airbags, Dynamic Stability Control inclusive of ABS, cornering brake control, dynamic brake control and dynamic traction control all fitted as standard. An optional extra is the Active Security Package (with lane changes and lane departure-warning systems), with an alarm, deadlocks and locking wheelnuts as standard. The 5 Series also has a spring-loaded bonnet which helps minimise pedestrian injuries in the event of an accident.
The 520d has loads of space in the front and back. Although BMW claim it is a five-seater, the middle back seat is not ideal as it has to accommodate the large transmission tunnel which runs through the centre of the car. The boot is, however, a good size with a capacity of 520-litres.
The 520d SE is priced at £30,030 and returns 58.9 mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 125g/km.
This car cannot be beaten for value for money in the executive car stakes thanks to its ultra-efficient diesel engine. It should also hold on to its value well and therefore offers superb value.
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