Anyone who, in a sweeping generalisation, dismisses BMW‘s current iDrive system as rubbish has clearly only ever experienced the mark one iDrive and not the version in the outgoing (and new) 5-series.

Yes, the first iteration was a bit tricky to get the hang of, but the iDrive in my 520d Touring is great, with the main controller and smaller buttons enabling you to operate almost all the car’s systems simply and intuitively (about the only thing you can’t do is drive the car). This arrangement also means you know where to find any control and that the dash is free of button clutter.

BMW 520d Touring M-sport
Business Edition 5dr auto
Mileage 8109
Claimed combined consumption 48.7mpg
Our average consumption 38.3mpg
P11D price £34,790
Model price range £31,090-£67,905
CO2 (tax) 154g/km (21%)
BIK 20/40% per month £121/£243
Service interval variable
Insurance group 16
Warranty 3yrs/unlimited
Boot space (min/max) 500/1650 litres
Engine size/power 1995cc/177PS
Top speed/0-62mph 139mph/8.6secs
Why we’re running it To see if 520d Business
Edition can match rivals
Positive Excellent efficiency,
great to drive, classy
Negative Short life brake pads,
ride

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