What’s new: BusinessCar first tested the mildly revised BMW 5-series back in July in 530d guise, and now it’s the turn of the 520d, the cleanest model and a core one for the fleet market. Changes comprise minor cosmetic tweaks and some spec updates.
Excellent: As was the case with its predecessor, the 520d is arguably the best of the executive crowd to drive – it rides well, handles beautifully and is very quiet.
Good: BMW has dropped the Efficient Dynamics moniker for this model, as the 520d is now as clean as it gets at 119g/km, as is the new, entry-level 518d, which is a little less powerful but provides a lower price point.
Average: Options are expensive, which isn’t uncommon with the premium German manufacturers. The likes of a £1290 Professional Media pack tend to make the not insubstantial P11D creep up very easily.
Poor: Again, on the subject of costs, the new entry 143hp 518d starts at £29,380 in SE guise, so £34,330 for the 520d M-sport is beginning to look excessive.
