The range of BMW 5 Series welcomes modular diesel engines four-cylinder versions 518d 520d 150 hp and 190 hp. We get behind the wheel 520d Touring version, a vehicle that stands out for its high level of refinement, a remarkable efficiency and versatility that provides a familiar body.

Little by little, BMW Group He is incorporating its new family of modular diesel direct injection technology, 2.0-liter engine and Twin Turbo Power and they offered in two power levels: 18d with 150 hp (Previously 143 hp) and 20d 190 hp (Previously 184 hp). Not only increases power slightly, but also the maximum torque in the case of 20d (2.03 mkg torque more version to total 40.78 mkg). Coupled to version 520d Touring BMW 5 Series, our impressions initials are more than positive after being able to drive a handful of kilometers.

Where are the changes

Progress in terms of efficiency It is what they bring new modular 2.0 BMW Diesel engines. The increased power and maximum torque is accompanied by internal improvements, that allow you to reduce your consumption levels, CO2 emissions and particulate pollutants. Among the most important changes must cite an aluminum crankcase with thermally machined shirts available to reduce abrasion losses, combustion systems and improved cooling a turbo unit with new bearings, nozzles new bill, new oil pump and a new treatment system exhaust gas through a catalytic converter SCR to reduced levels of nitrogen oxide NOx (versions equipped with integral xDrive, also use special AdBlue in combination with the SCR module) . All these internal engine changes have to join a weight somewhat lower, just 2 kg, which in quantitative terms may not be a figure to stand out, but it certainly contributes their bit towards achieving maximum efficiency.

520d Touring, driving

After knowing the whole theory of the changes made to the modular engines BMW 2.0d, It is now talking about practice, in this case, the 520d Touring version of the BMW 5 Series. In our country, both this version and the other 520d 518d 150 hp only alternative may be combined with automatic transmission 8-speed Steptronic, while being able to choose with or without paddles on the steering wheel. We had the opportunity to choose it with cams, a plus that brings greater role in driving if you wish.

Interaction 2.0d engine 190 hp with change 8-speed Steptronic have found it more than satisfactory. Refinement and effectiveness They are two of the adjectives that can better define the behavior of this gearbox torque converter signed by the specialist ZF. as good BMW pure strain, the driver of this 5 Series Touring you can choose how you want to drive all times depending on the circumstances and characteristics of the roads that will be found on their way. Through intuitive iDrive, You have your access five modes of operation varying operating parameters and adjust the suspensions, the steering, throttle, change and delivering power and torque. If what you want is comfortable and quiet circular is best to choose modes Comfort and Comfort +; On the other hand, if you get ‘the efficient vein’, the EcoPro mode is the ideal, featuring the ability to decouple the engine of change if driving conditions are optimal (a digital graphic on the display indicates that you are ‘leading sailing’). This EcoPro mode also tells you at all times the amount of energy you are recovering, which is reflected very well every time you slightly touch the brake or take your foot off the accelerator. Even also tells you in quantitative terms the number of kilometers you’ve saved with this driving mode.

18d and 20d in the BMW range

The renovated 18d and 20d diesel engines are spreading slowly in the BMW range. Today, they offer the X3, X4 (20d version only), the Series 2 Active Tourer, the Series 2 Coupe (version 20d) and now the 5 Series sedan in its sedan and Touring (familiar) version.

For the BMW fans in this 5 Series 520d Touring no shortage of ways Sport and Sport +, With more aggressive steering behavior change, delivery of engine power and firmer suspension setting. It is appreciated the overall performance of dynamic BMW driving system because the driver actually perceives the change between the two operating mode. This vehicle personality change depending on the mode chosen is also accompanied by a change in color of instrumentation, from a more intense blue Sport + mode the EcoPro option to red.

After trying all driving modes, the onboard computer showed us 6.9 l / 100 km as average fuel economy, a figure that surely we could have dropped a few tenths if we had made more use of modes Comfort, Comfort + and EcoPro. The dynamic behavior ultimately faultless, giving the car everything you expect depending on the mode chosen, even at some point I was surprised effectiveness and agility of the vehicle sections linked curves, since this is a vehicle with bodywork family and a weight in vacuum official 1,810 kg.

Details and more details

He Inside the BMW 5 Series 520d Touring breathing room premium for each of its pores with an adjustment and completion of each of the parts high. Our test unit had great equipment, among which we highlight the information projection system on the windshield Head up Display and the control device active and dynamic cruise. Regarding the first and through the iDrive, You can configure and choose the amount of information projected onto the windshield (with the speed, direction and browser speed limit sign is more than enough). For its part, the control system active and dynamic cruise becomes a great ally for the driver in terms of safety, to regulate at all times the safety distance to the vehicle ahead adjusting the speed and, if precise, stopping him.

our conclusion

Balanced, dynamic, versatile base … BMW 5 Series it was already very good. The combination of the new engine 520d with the familiar body is a more than interesting for anyone looking for a complete vehicle in terms of efficiency, refined interior and various configuration possibilities (between 560 and 1,670 liters of cargo volume in option trunk) And, of course, with BMW genes hundred percent.

BMW 518d and 520d prices in Spain

Sedan

518d Auto (Steptronic) 150 hp: 41,500 euros

520d Auto (Steptronic) 190 hp: 44,150 euros

520d Auto (Steptronic) CV 190 xDrive: 50,050 euros

Touring (relative)

518d Auto (Steptronic) 150 hp: 46,050 euros

520d Auto (Steptronic) 190 hp: 48,070 euros

520d Auto (Steptronic) CV 190 xDrive: 53,850 euros

BMW 520d Touring. Data sheet

MOTOR

Displacement: 1,995 cm3

No. cylinders: 4 in line

Power: 190 hp at 4,000 rpm

maximum torque: 40.78 mkg between 1750-2500 rpm

TRANSMISSION

Drive: Rear

Change: Steptronic 8-speed automatic with torque converter

PERFORMANCES, consumption and emissions

Average consumption: 4.5 l / 100 km

CO2 emissions: 118 g / km

EU standard: Euro 6