I got my first chance to have a decent run in our new 520d a couple of weekends ago.
Without any serious attempt at eco-driving, the trip computer read around the 47mpg mark for an average across a full tank – not too shabby for a big executive saloon, even if the majority of driving was motorway-based.
While I was pleased with the effort, it brought into sharper focus how relatively unobtainable the official consumption figures are on the BMW, with the combined figure and extra urban quoted at 54.3mpg and 62.8mpg respectively. But in isolation, I’m pleased with the early results.
I’m also grateful for the new 5-series’ more comfortable ride over long distances, compared with its predecessor’s more uncompromising set-up. Bumps and road imperfections are still obvious, but they don’t crash through the cabin like they used to.
