As of: January 22, 2024, 7:16 p.m
By: Volker Pfau
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The 5 Series is extremely important for BMW for prestige and sales.
We tested the petrol and diesel entry-level models.
The upper middle class sedans - especially those made in Germany - are considered particularly prestigious for manufacturers and customers.
Whoever builds the best car in this class gains reputation as a car manufacturer and makes good sales.
And anyone who owns a model from this category has made it pretty high on the career and wealth ladder.
Bavarian luxury sedans: Entry into the business class starts with the 520i and the 520d.
© BMW/Daniel Kraus
It's no wonder that BMW paid a lot of attention to the new 5 Series, the eighth generation of which was recently presented, as it is considered the world's most successful business sedan.
Shortly after the market launch, we were able to subject the respective entry-level diesel version, the 520d xDrive, and the petrol version, the 520i, to an everyday test.
The design emphasizes the sporty silhouette
The design is successful because it conceals the true size of the cars, which are each an impressive 5.06 meters long and 1.87 meters wide, but emphasizes a more sporty line.
And thus lives up to the brand’s standards.
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The two engines, each with a displacement of 1,998 cubic centimeters, are naturally not quite as dynamic as this image - the diesel engine produces 197 hp, the gasoline engine 208 hp.
However, making rapid progress is still no problem: the eight-speed automatic always finds the best gear, and the maximum torque of 400 Nm for the diesel and 310 Nm for the petrol engine takes you to your destination confidently.
The design of the new BMW 5 Series is successful because it conceals the true size of the cars - but still emphasizes a more sporty line.
© BMW/Daniel Kraus
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Performance boost with the Power Boost function
Sport mode is also available for more spirited driving.
With the petrol engine, a boost function (included in the 4,000 euro M Sport package) can also be activated with shift paddles on the steering wheel, thanks to which extra power is available for overtaking, for example.
The time in the two BMW limousines is almost overwhelmingly perceived as a pleasant stay.
The steering wheel is not overloaded and instead has a pleasantly few functions, so that the risk of distraction while on the move is low.
The navigation system works reliably and is very up-to-date, and the voice control always understood us straight away.
We found it very positive that the seat and steering wheel heating (300 euros extra) can be adjusted several times and works quickly when the outside temperatures are cool.
Pleasant driving: The cockpit of the new BMW 5 Series is modern, clear and easy to use © BMW
The doors of the two BMW limousines unexpectedly close with a tinny sound
You can complete long stretches of motorway in a very relaxed manner in the new 5 Series, regardless of the engine.
When maneuvering in urban areas, the turning circle of 12.4 meters is noticeable in addition to the generous dimensions.
At least there are good camera and assistance systems on board.
With a trunk volume of 530 liters and a payload of 670 kilograms (520i: 675 kilograms), both BMWs are also suitable as cargo transporters.
On the other hand, the doors on the two upper middle class sedans close with an unexpectedly tinny finish.
The rich sound of luxury is missing in our ears.
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Sitting more comfortably: passengers in the back seat have more than enough space © BMW
With the diesel with winter tires, we achieved a consumption of just under six liters per 100 kilometers, which means the range is well over 1,000 kilometers thanks to the 60-liter tank.
The petrol engine - also with winter tires - consumed almost seven liters when driving in a relaxed manner and can still travel almost 800 kilometers.
However, when refueling you should know exactly which engine you are driving, otherwise confusing petrol and diesel can become an expensive affair.
The price list for the BMW 5 Series starts at 53,700 euros
The basic price for the 520d xDrive is 58,500 euros, without all-wheel drive it costs from 55,900 euros.
The 520i, which is not offered as an xDrive, starts at 53,700 euros in the list.
With the new 5 Series you can really get a taste of the luxury class thanks to the superior performance, the elegant equipment and the modern technology.
Whether you choose a petrol engine or a diesel engine is ultimately a matter of taste.