BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017) Review
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BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017) At A Glance
Brilliant ride and handling, powerful and efficient diesel engines, upmarket interior, very safe, lots on the used market.
Petrol versions are rare, styling a perhaps a little sombre, limited practicality.
The BMW 5 Series was designed for Europe’s motorways. To allow a driver to while away the hours between business meetings, cocooned in a luxurious cabin and enjoying the latest tech. Launched in 2010, the 5 Series can list the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6 as its chief rivals. For some people, there is only one. The BMW 5 Series is the five-star executive saloon.
This is the saloon car that executives dream of owning. They pray for the day when the fleet manager sends them an email to say that the BMW 5 Series is an option for their next company car. It’s the ‘have your cake and eat it’ saloon. Comfortable and composed on a motorway, but playful and agile when the road twists and turns.
Launched in 2010, this generation of 5 Series is less striking than its predecessor. It also lacks the sharpness of the current BMW 5 Series. It’s a more sombre affair, which actually means that it still looks fresh today. Stick a private plate on a 2010 or 2011 5 Series, and your neighbours will think you’re driving something much newer.
Aside from a subtle facelift in 2013, there’s little to distinguish a 2017 5 Series from a 2010 example. Even a car with 200,000 miles on the clock will look as good as new, helped in no small part by the fact that the majority of cars have led an easy life on the motorway. As former company cars, you can be sure that there will be plenty of stamps in the service book.
But why should you buy a used BMW 5 Series over rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6? There are two main reasons: the way it drives and the quality of the cabin.
The 5 Series has always offered the best handling in its class. On a British B-road, the 5 Series will feel as agile as the 3 Series and as playful as a family hatchback.
On a motorway, it’s as comfortable and refined as the E-Class. If you’re considering a Jaguar XF or a Mercedes-Benz E-Class, we’d say the 5 Series offers the best of both worlds.
It was available with a wide range of engines, but most buyers opted for the brilliant 520d. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine offers a near-perfect blend of performance and efficiency, with enough power to make the most of the sublime chassis. The 530d is a worthy alternative, adding more power and a delightful six-cylinder soundtrack to the mix. There’s only a small penalty in terms of fuel economy.
A 518d is available if you’re on a strict budget, but we’d find it hard to look beyond the 520d. Petrol versions are rare, so you’ll stand more chance of sourcing a BMW M5.
As for spec, British buyers love the M Sport trim, so a 520d M Sport is the most common spec/engine combination. That said, the SE trim packs everything you need, especially if the original owner added a few luxuries from the options menu.
That was one of our criticisms of the car when it was new: the fact that some of the options can make the 5 Series look very expensive. That’s not a problem for you, because the majority of options add nothing to the resale value.
Prices start from £5000, but £10,000 is enough to secure a low-mileage example. That’s a small amount of cash for a car with some big selling points. Other executive saloons are available, but the chance are you fancy a 5 Series. You’re in good company.
Reviews for BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017)'s top 3 rivals
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BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017) handling and engines
- Engines range from 518d 143 to 550i 450
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 21–60 mpg
BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017): Handling and ride quality
Drive a BMW 5 Series and you’d think you’re behind the wheel of a 3 Series. It’s as nimble and agile as a family hatchback, but with the poise and composure you’d expect from a rear-wheel-drive BMW saloon. Most large executive cars are happy to spend hours on a motorway. Others have the ability to let their hair down when the straights turn to corners. The 5 Series is one such car.
Even the lowly models feature precise and accurate steering, while the perfect balance is only something you can appreciate once you’ve driven one.
M Sport models are slightly more unsettled, but not to the extent that they’re uncomfortable. Models with Dynamic Damper Control feature adjustable suspension, so you can select from sporty to comfortable.
BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017): Engines
You’ll almost certainly end up buying a 520d, not least because there were times when 90 percent of 5 Series sales were this model. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel is a modern gem, offering a perfect blend of performance and economy. Early models developed 184PS, but a power upgrade means later cars boast 190PS.
The 518d is fine if you’re running a 5 Series on a budget, but it doesn’t have the power to make the most of the fine chassis. The 530d is a different story, offering 245PS or 258PS, depending on the age of the car. It’s so good, it renders the petrol engines null and void. That said, we’d choose a 520i over the 523d or 525d, although the six-cylinder diesels sound great.
Petrol versions are rare, so you might struggle to find a 520i, 530i, 535i or the thunderous 550i V8. Indeed, you’ve got a greater chance of sourcing a BMW M5.
BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017): Safety
The BMW 5 Series was awarded a five-star safety rating when it was crash-tested by Euro NCAP. The scores were impressive, including 95 percent for adult occupant protection and 100 percent for safety assist technology.
Some of the safety systems wouldn’t look out of the place on the contemporary BMW 7 Series. Night vision was an option, while the likes of lane-departure warning, lane-change warning and a head-up display were far from the norm when the 5 Series was new.
BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017): Towing
Thanks to a maximum towing capacity of up to 2000kg, the BMW 5 Series is a fine tow car. The diesel engines provide the torque required to haul a caravan or a large trailer.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 518d 143 | 58–63 mpg | 9.7 s | 119–129 g/km |
| 518d 143 Automatic | 58–63 mpg | 9.6 s | 119–129 g/km |
| 518d 150 | 60–66 mpg | 9.5 s | 119 g/km |
| 518d 150 Automatic | 61–67 mpg | 9.4 s | 114 g/km |
| 520d 184 | 60–63 mpg | 8.1 s | 119–124 g/km |
| 520d 184 Automatic | 60 mpg | 7.9 s | 124 g/km |
| 520d 190 | 60–66 mpg | 7.9 s | 119 g/km |
| 520d 190 Automatic | 63–69 mpg | 7.7 s | 114 g/km |
| 520d EfficientDynamics | 63 mpg | 8.2 s | 119 g/km |
| 520i 184 | 42–44 mpg | 7.9 s | 154 g/km |
| 520i 184 Automatic | 44–47 mpg | 7.9 s | 144 g/km |
| 523i 204 | 37 mpg | 7.9 s | 177 g/km |
| 525d 204 | 55 mpg | 7.0 s | 134 g/km |
| 525d 204 Automatic | 58 mpg | 6.9 s | 128 g/km |
| 525d 218 | 53–58 mpg | 7.0 s | 134 g/km |
| 525d 218 Automatic | 57–60 mpg | 6.9 s | 128 g/km |
| 528i 245 Automatic | 44–46 mpg | 6.2 s | 147 g/km |
| 528i 258 | 40–43 mpg | 6.2 s | 154–164 g/km |
| 528i 258 Automatic | 45 mpg | 6.2 s | 147 g/km |
| 530d 245 | 48–50 mpg | 6.1 s | 149–155 g/km |
| 530d 258 Automatic | 51–55 mpg | 5.8 s | 139 g/km |
| 530i 272 | 36–37 mpg | 6.5 s | 177–182 g/km |
| 530i 272 Automatic | 37–38 mpg | 6.6 s | 173–178 g/km |
| 535d 299 Automatic | 52 mpg | 5.5 s | 142 g/km |
| 535d 313 Automatic | 50–52 mpg | 5.3 s | 143 g/km |
| 535i 306 | 35 mpg | 5.8 s | 188 g/km |
| 535i 306 Automatic | 37–38 mpg | 5.7 s | 174 g/km |
| 550i 450 | 32–33 mpg | 4.6 s | 199 g/km |
Real MPG average for the BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017)
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
73%
Real MPG
21–60 mpg
MPGs submitted
1367
BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017) interior
- Boot space is 520 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4899–4907 mm |
| Width | 1860–2102 mm |
| Height | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2968 mm |
BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017): Practicality
A boot offering 520 litres of luggage space sounds good on paper, especially if you’re upsizing from a smaller car. However, because it’s a saloon, access to the boot is rather awkward, while the space itself is quite narrow for a car of this size.
BMW even had the cheek to charge extra for a folding rear seat at launch, so check the configuration when buying a used 5 Series. Better still, opt for the 5 Series Touring estate.
Headroom is great in the front and rear, but while there’s enough room for three adults across the back seat, anyone sitting in the middle will find little room for their feet. There are Isofix points in the rear, although wider door openings would have made it easier to lift a child in or out of a car seat. Up front, the driver and passenger will revel in the supremely comfortable seats.
BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017): Quality and finish
BMW went to great lengths to ensure that this generation of 5 Series felt superior to its predecessor. It worked, because it’s hard to find fault with the fit and finish. The doors shut with a reassuring thud, while the materials throughout the cabin feel plush and upmarket.
New car buyers could select from a range of interior trims, including wood-effect panels and piano black. There’s also a polished aluminum strip across the width of the dashboard, helping to lift the mood.
BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017): Infotainment
The 5 Series comes with a seven-inch colour display as standard, but many buyers opted for the 10.1-inch upgrade. It’s an impressive widescreen display, with crystal clear graphics and a logical menu system. All models get a central iDrive rotary controller to operate the infotainment system. It’s easy to use on the move and has a wonderfully upmarket feel.
Some models boast a head-up display, which projects key information onto the windscreen. It was an expensive option, so you might struggle to find it on the used car market.
BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017) value for money
BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017): Prices
Prices start from £5000. This is enough to secure a 2010 example with between 100,000 and 200,000 miles on the clock. It will almost certainly be a 520d in SE trim, with many ex-lease cars on the market. Don’t be afraid of these. The chances are they will have led an easy life on the motorways of Britain, and will have a full service history to their name.
Upping the budget to £7500 unlocks the prospect of owning a post-facelift 5 Series. You might struggle to notice the difference on the outside, but with sat-nav standard across the range, not to mention an updated iDrive controller, it’s worth the additional expense. A frugal 518d also arrived in 2013, so there are more models to choose from.
Late examples should cost no more than £20,000, but it’s worth noting that this is enough to secure a current model. Not only does the new car boast improved styling, it’s also safer, more efficient and loaded with the latest tech.
Bizarrely, you might find it easier to source a BMW M5 than a regular 5 Series with a petrol engine. You can buy an early example of the BMW M5 for as little as £20,000, but the best examples cost as much as £35,000.
If you’re buying a regular 5 Series on finance, hire purchase deals start from around £100 a month. This is based on a four-year contract and a deposit of £1000. A later model will cost around £500 a month, so you could find that a PCP or lease deal on a new or nearly-new 5 Series makes more sense.
BMW 5 Series (2010 – 2017): Running Costs
The BMW 5 Series came with some wildly optimistic official fuel economy figures. Claims of 60mpg to just shy of 70mpg made the BMW 520d look remarkably efficient on paper. In reality, the fuel economy will be much lower, but this remains a truly efficient engine.
According to Real MPG, the 520d should return between 40mpg and 50mpg. The 520d EfficientDynamics is, as the name suggests, highly efficient, returning as much as 48.4mpg. The 518d should be more economical, but not enough for us to recommend it over the 520d.
The 525d, 530d and 535d are also reasonably efficient, boasting figures of between 37.2mpg and 39.2mpg. If you’re after a petrol engine, the 520i and 523i should return around 35mpg, but the automatic version of the 520i sees a drop of around 5mpg. Between 30mpg and 35mpg is likely for the 528i, 530i and 535i, and there’s no real penalty of choosing the most powerful version.
Insurance groups range from 30 to 46, so it won’t be a cheap car to insure. The 518d is the best option if you’re on a strict budget, but the six-cylinder diesels and petrol engines will be more expensive.
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It’s the saloon loved by company car drivers and fleet managers alike. The driver loves it for its style, performance and equipment. The fleet manager loves it for its efficiency and low running costs. Now it’s your turn to experience the 5 Series.
Although diesel engines aren’t exactly flavour of the month, the 520d is a modern classic. Punchy, efficient and comfortable – it’s the ideal car for commuting and long journeys.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4899–4907 mm |
| Width | 1860–2102 mm |
| Height | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2968 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1595–1830 kg |
| Boot Space | 520 L |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Servicing | 18000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Run-flat tyres | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £30,265–£58,075 |
| Insurance Groups | 30–46 |
| Road Tax Bands | C–J |
| Official MPG | 32.1–68.9 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
On sale until April 2017
On sale until May 2014
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 518d Luxury 143 4dr | £33,065 | 60.1 mpg | 9.7 s |
| 518d Luxury 143 Auto 4dr | £34,615 | 60.1 mpg | 9.6 s |
| 518d M Sport 143 4dr | £33,065 | 57.6 mpg | 9.7 s |
| 518d M Sport 143 Auto 4dr | £34,615 | 57.6 mpg | 9.6 s |
| 518d Modern 143 4dr | £32,265 | 60.1 mpg | 9.7 s |
| 518d Modern 143 Auto 4dr | £33,815 | 60.1 mpg | 9.6 s |
| 518d SE 143 4dr | £30,265 | 62.8 mpg | 9.7 s |
| 518d SE 143 Auto 4dr | £31,815 | 62.8 mpg | 9.6 s |
| 520d Luxury 184 4dr | £34,765 | 60.1 mpg | 8.1 s |
| 520d Luxury 184 Auto 4dr | £36,315 | 60.1 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 520d Modern 184 4dr | £33,965 | 60.1 mpg | 8.1 s |
| 520d Modern 184 Auto 4dr | £35,515 | 60.1 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 520d SE 184 4dr | £31,965 | 62.8 mpg | 8.1 s |
| 520i Modern 184 4dr | £35,040 | 42.8 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 520i Modern 184 Auto 4dr | £36,555 | 45.6 mpg | 7.9 s |
| 525d Modern 218 4dr | £38,985 | 55.4 mpg | 7.0 s |
| 525d Modern 218 Auto 4dr | £40,405 | 57.6 mpg | 6.9 s |
| 528i Modern 245 Auto 4dr | £38,570 | 44.8 mpg | 6.2 s |
On sale until April 2014
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 528i Luxury 4dr | £38,255 | 41.5 mpg | 6.2 s |
| 528i M Sport 4dr | £38,255 | 40.4 mpg | 6.2 s |
| 528i Modern 4dr | £37,455 | 41.5 mpg | 6.2 s |
| 528i SE 4dr | £35,455 | 42.8 mpg | 6.2 s |
On sale until July 2013
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 520d EfficientDynamics 4dr | £30,835 | 62.8 mpg | 8.2 s |
| 530d M Sport 4dr | £42,525 | 47.9 mpg | 6.1 s |
| 530d SE 4dr | £39,190 | 49.6 mpg | 6.1 s |
| 530i M Sport 4dr | £39,115 | 36.2 mpg | 6.5 s |
| 530i M Sport Auto 4dr | £40,640 | 37.2 mpg | 6.6 s |
| 530i SE 4dr | £35,815 | 37.2 mpg | 6.5 s |
| 530i SE Auto 4dr | £37,340 | 38.2 mpg | 6.6 s |
| 535d SE 4dr Auto | £44,700 | 52.3 mpg | 5.5 s |
| 535i SE 4dr | £39,370 | 34.9 mpg | 5.8 s |
On sale until August 2011
| Saloon | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 523i M Sport 4dr | £36,015 | 37.2 mpg | 7.9 s |
Model History
- March 2010: New 5 Series unveiled
- July 2010: 5 Series M Sport added to range
- September 2010: 535d goes on sale
- October 2010
- July 2011: New BMW 520d EfficientDynamics revealed
- September 2011: BMW expands 5 Series line-up
- March 2012
- May 2013: BMW 5 Series facelifted
- May 2014: 2.0-litre TwinPower diesel engines introduced
March 2010
New 5 Series unveiled
The BMW 5 Series Saloon was styled to reflect its almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution with short overhangs, a coupé-like flowing roofline and a long, contoured bonnet. It had the longest wheelbase in its class at 2,968mm, creating a greater feeling of interior space. There's a 520-litre boot with the option to specify 40:20:40 split folding rear seats.
Biggest seller in the UK is the 520d with latest generation common-rail direct injection and variable turbine geometry. Peak torque of 380Nm from 1,900rpm.
The BMW 5 Series Saloon comes with an array of EfficientDynamics technologies. The BMW 520d has Auto Start-Stop, reducing the engine idle period when coming to a short stop. All manual gearboxes also come with an Optimum gearshift indicator to help drivers know when to change gear to optimise the car’s efficiency. Brake Energy Regeneration, which recharges the vehicle’s battery during engine over-run, is part of the 5 Series Saloon’s standard specification.
Active Aerodynamics also play a part in keeping emissions low and performance high by closing off the air cooling flaps behind the kidney grills to improve the aerodynamics of the car and performance on cold starts. Low rolling resistance tyres also feature to improve efficiency still further.
Benefiting from dry sump lubrication, the BMW 5 Series Saloon comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox which has been optimised compared to previous transmissions for greater efficiency. A redesigned gearshift leaver and enhanced internal packaging have resulted in a smoother, sportier gearshift.
The range topping 550i comes as standard with BMW’s new eight-speed automatic transmission bringing the luxury and refinement of the 7 Series to the 550i. Whilst being six percent more fuel efficient, the weight and size are unaffected. Buyers of all variants can specify the eight-speed automatic gearbox or an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission with Formula One style steering wheel mounted paddles for those that prefer more enthusiastic performance.
For those BMW 5 Series Saloon models specified with Variable Damper Control or Adaptive Drive packages, the Drive Dynamic Control (DDC) chassis configurator is fitted to enhance ride and handling still further. DDC allows for fine tuning of the chassis with the choice of Normal, Comfort, Sport and Sport+. Each mode changes the levels of steering assistance, throttle response, gear change characteristics, degree of Dynamic Stability Control interaction and, courtesy of adjustable dampers, the ride and handling characteristics.
The BMW 5 Series Saloon features the highest ever level of standard specification for the model. All models now come with Dakota leather upholstery, BMW Professional Radio and Bluetooth telephone preparation compared to the previous (E60) BMW 5 Series Saloon. Six-cylinder engine derivatives additionally gain USB audio interface and Ambient lighting, while the BMW 550i has the eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. The BMW 520d additionally benefits from full automatic air-conditioning system as standard.
The BMW 5 Series Saloon is the first BMW to be offered with Park Assist aimed at enhancing driver convenience. Once a button on the centre console is pressed ultrasound sensors located in the side indicator surrounds scan the road either side of the vehicle for an appropriate parking space. On location of a suitable free bay the driver then only need operate the accelerator and brake pedals while the Park Assist system swiftly slots the car into the space with ease.
Four-wheel Integral Active Steering can also be specified for the first time on a 5 Series Saloon and a car equipped as such benefits from a 0.5metre smaller turning circle. Meanwhile, the Surround View system uses cameras in the side mirrors and the front wheel arches in conjunction with Park Distance Control and the optional Reversing Assist camera to provide a 360 degree view on the iDrive display for perfect parking.
The BMW 5 Series Saloon is offered with a wealth of optional equipment to enhance driver safety, comfort and enjoyment. Head-up Display, Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Warning, Speed Limit Info and two rear entertainment packages are all available.
In the UK the BMW 5 Series Saloon will be offered with four optional equipment packages. BMW Business Advanced Media and BMW Professional Multimedia packages include BMW Navigation, BMW ConnectedDrive – Assist and Online and Voice control. Dynamic package includes 19-inch alloy wheels, Sport seats, Anthracite headlining, Sport leather steering wheel and High-gloss exterior trim. The Visibility package includes Adaptive headlights, Xenon headlights, High-beam Assist and headlight wash.
BMW is using the announcement of the BMW 5 Series to the launch the new BMW Live tool. Available for download from 24 November, 2009 at www.bmw.co.uk/live the BMW Live application, once installed on a computer, provides the user with a host of information about the new BMW 5 Series in addition to other features. Checking the time, weather or even what is going on in the rest of the world courtesy of RSS feeds, BMW Live combines all of this and more in a one stop widget which looks as good as the new BMW 5 Series.
July 2010
5 Series M Sport added to range
The BMW 5 Series became available in M Sport guise from September 2010. The package comprises components that have been specifically adapted to match the suspension, aerodynamics, exterior and interior design of each model. The M Sports suspension, M aerodynamics package and 18-inch M light alloys featuring a double spoke design not only create an exceptionally powerful appearance but also contribute towards enhanced driving dynamics.
Specially developed sports seats give the interior asporting ambience, while further interior features include an M leather-clad steering wheel, an M gear lever knob, an anthracite roof lining and M aluminium hexagon interior trim strips. Further options include 19-inch M light alloys as well as an M rear spoiler for the saloon.
September 2010
535d goes on sale
The most powerful diesel version of the BMW 5 Series – the 299hp 535d Saloon - went on sale from September 2010. BMW twin turbocharger and common rail direct injection technology helps make this 3.0-litre straight-six all-aluminium engine one of the world’s most powerful six-cylinder diesel unit. Its 299hp available at 4400rpm while maximum torque is 600Nm is available from 1750rpm.
A smaller turbocharger operating just above idling speed gives the BMW 535d instant surge, while a larger turbo is activated at higher speeds, supplying additional power for maximum performance. Equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the new BMW 535d Saloon will accelerate from 0 to 62mph in just 5.7 seconds.
But along with its dynamic capability comes efficiency. Thanks to the latest generation common rail system operating at a maximum pressure of 2,000 bar and guaranteeing a particularly accurate supply of fuel, the BMW 535d achieves an average combined fuel consumption of 46.3mpg.
October 2010
Two additional diesel engines and a further petrol unit complement the range of powerplants available to the BMW 5 Series Touring. The BMW 525d Touring is powered by a 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder engine with 150 kW/204 hp, while the straight-six that drives the BMW 535d Touring summons up 220 kW/300 hp thanks to BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.
The BMW 528i Touring lines up for action with lean-burn high precision injection and output of 190 kW/258 hp. Also stepping out in Paris are the first all-wheel-drive models of the new Executive Touring in the form of the BMW 535i xDrive Touring and the BMW 530d xDrive. Yet another debut is that of the new M Sports package for the BMW 5 Series Touring.
July 2011
New BMW 520d EfficientDynamics revealed
With the all-important UK business market in mind, BMW engineers have created a car that is approximately 10 per cent more fuel-efficient than the best its rivals can muster, without reducing the 184hp or 380Nm of torque developed by the 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine. This equates to fuel economy of 62.8mpg and emissions of 119g/km, which means a company car benefit-in-kind taxation band of only 13 per cent.
In addition to the standard Auto Start-Stop, Optimum Gearshift Indicator, Brake Energy Regeneration and Active Aerodynamics, the BMW 520d EfficientDynamics Saloon has a longer final drive ratio to reduce engine revs at highway speeds, and low rolling resistance tyres on Streamline-design alloy wheels. This all helps to accelerate the car from zero to 62mph in just 8.2 seconds.
The 520d EfficientDynamics Saloon also comes with BMW’s new ECO-PRO Mode. A driver-activated switch promotes economical and comfortable driving at low speeds by adjusting the engine mapping, throttle sensitivity, automatic gearshift points, where applicable, and the amount of power consumed by electrical ancillaries including climate control and heated seats. The new model goes on sale in September priced from £30,435 OTR.
September 2011
BMW expands 5 Series line-up
The 5 Series engine range grew to 11 derivatives with the arrival of the 520i and 528i models for September 2011. Both are powered by a new four-cylinder 2.0-litre petrol engine employing twin-scroll turbocharger technology, high-precision direct fuel injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve control and double-VANOS camshaft control.
The 520i develops 184hp at 5,000rpm and 270Nm of torque in a broad spread from 1250 to 4500rpm, guaranteeing spontaneous response across almost the entire rev band. With the optional automatic gearbox, the average economy of the 520i saloon is 44.1mpg, while CO2emissions dip below 150g/km. The BMW 520i SE Saloon costs from £31,190 OTR - £1,512 cheaper than the model it replaces – while the Touring is £33,615 OTR.
By increasing the amount of turbo boost and revising the operation of the fuel injection system, the same basic engine is able to produce 245hp from 5,000-6,500rpm and 350Nm across 1,250-4,800rpm for the 528i. Six-cylinder performance, zero to 62mph in just 6.2 seconds for the manual saloon, is therefore feasible with four-cylinder fuel efficiency: 43.5mpg and a CO2output of 152g/km with automatic transmission. The BMW 328i SE Saloon cost from £33,610 OTR and the Touring is £36,165 OTR.
In the 525d, a new four-cylinder 2.0-litre twin-turbo engine replaces the single-turbo six-cylinder 3.0-litre unit. The new engine generates 218hp at 4,400rpm and 450Nm of torque from 1,500-2,500rpm, sufficient to improving acceleration while reducing fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent. The BMW 525d SE Saloon costs from £35,135 OTR and the Touring £37,560 OTR.
Extensive modifications to the six-cylinder twin-turbo diesel engines in the 530d and 535d, both featuring variable turbine geometry, have produced increases in power and torque while at the same time achieving greater fuel efficiency. The fuel consumption of the 530d is around 13 per cent better, while the 535d now has a power output of 313hp. These models are now priced from £38,780 OTR and £44,290 OTR respectively for the Saloon and £41,190 OTR and £46,600 OTR for the Touring.
The final 5 Series engine addition for September sees the 407hp 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 from the 550i flagship saloon and 550i GT become available in the Touring for the first time. A BMW 550i Touring starts at £54,680 OTR.
| Model | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | 0-62mph (seconds) | Top Speed (mph) |
CO 2 emissions (g/km) | Combined mpg |
| BMW 520i | 184 | 270 | 7.9 (8.0) | 141 | 157 (149) | 41.5 (44.1) |
| BMW 528i | 245 | 350 | 6.2 (6.3) | 155* | 159 (152) | 41.5 (43.5) |
| BMW 520d ED | 184 | 380 | 8.2 | 144 | 119 | 62.8 |
| BMW 525d | 218 | 450 | 7.0 | 151 | 132 (126) | 56.5 (58.9) |
| BMW530d | 258 | 540 | 6.1 (6.0) | 155* | 149 (139) | 49.6 (52.3) |
| BMW 535d** | 313 | 630 | 5.5 | 155* | 142 | 50.4 |
* Electronically limited ** Automatic only
BMW 5 Series Touring
| Model | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | 0-62mph (seconds) | Top Speed (mph) |
CO 2 emissions (g/km) | Combined mpg |
| BMW 520i | 184 | 270 | 8.3 | 137 | 163 (156) | 40.4 (42.2) |
| BMW 528i | 245 | 350 | 6.4 | 152 | 165 (159) | 39.8 (41.5) |
| BMW 525d | 218 | 450 | 7.2 | 147 | 138 (135) | 53.3 (55.4) |
| BMW530d | 258 | 540 | 6.2 | 155* | 155 (145) | 47.9 (51.4) |
| BMW 535d** | 313 | 630 | 5.5 | 155* | 148 | 50.4 |
| BMW 550i** | 407 | 600 | 5.1 | 155* | 142 | 26.4 |
The 5 Series in all its variants remains the ultimate drivers’ car in the executive sector. That position is strengthened with the introduction of Drive Performance Control as standard, which allows the driver to fine-tune the ride and handling selecting either Comfort, Sport or Sport+ settings. It will be fitted to all Saloon and Touring variants.
All four- and six-cylinder 5 Series models, have the addition of ECO PRO mode, which adjusts throttle sensitivity, engine response, the upshift points with the automatic gearbox, where fitted, and even the power consumed by ancillaries including climate control and heated mirrors.
Owners can now open the boot or – on the Touring – the rear window or tailgate through a simple foot movement at the rear of the car. Sensors in the rear bumper detect foot movement and if that person is carrying the correct key, messages are sent to the car’s onboard computer telling it to lift the boot lid, tailgate or rear glass hatch on the Touring.
In conjunction with the optional BMW Professional Navigation system, drivers are provided with accurate, instant details of traffic conditions through the Real-Time Traffic Information system, while the uprated Head-Up display now shows full-colour road-sign graphics. An extension of the BMW Night Vision system gives better visual and audible warnings of unseen pedestrians or cyclists.
September 2011 also saw the introduction of M Sport specification to the 5 Series Gran Turismo. Featuring an enhanced standard specification M Sport includes 19-inch light alloy wheels, M aerodynamic body styling, M Sport suspension and other interior and exterior enhancements. Prices for the 5 Series Gran Turismo start at £46,590 OTR for a 530d GT rising to £57,620 OTR for a 550i GT.
BMW’s ConnectedDrive system has been enhanced for 2011 for even more intelligent networking between the driver and the outside world. Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI) is a superior system for warning drivers of hold-ups and calculating alternative routes to help avoid them. It is far quicker and more efficient than the Traffic Message Channel (TMC) currently used, transmitting data faster, and updating more frequently, via the SIM card integrated in the vehicle.
Courtesy of BMW Live, the driver’s mobile phone can serve as a modem to feed information to the car’s Control Display via Bluetooth. The system offers free RSS news feeds, weather information, Google Local Search, Google Panoramic and Street View. The RSS news feeds are read inside the car via BMW’s Text to Speech function. The facility will be available on the new BMW 1 Series in September, before being rolled out to other models.
The same camera system can also provide the driver more information through the new full-colour Head-up Display or the instrument panel. The Lane Departure Warning system can detect lane markings and sends a mild vibration through the steering wheel should the vehicle deviate from its lane without indicating. The Speed Limit Display reads both permanent and temporary speed limit signs and displays the current maximum permissible speed limit to the driver.
March 2012
BMW launched a new 'M Performance' brand that includes high performance diesels. The M550d, X5 M50d and facelifted X6 M50d models are all powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel that's fitted with no less than three turbochargers.
This new M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology means the engine produces 381PS and an immense 740Nm of torque, available from just 2000rpm. To put that into context the M5 with its 4.4-litre V8 engine develops 560PS with 680Nm of torque. The diesel engine may be down on power but it's not far behind in terms of performance with an official 0-62mph time of just 4.7 seconds for the M550d saloon compared to 4.4 seconds in the M5.
The big difference is of course fuel economy. The M550d, which is available as a saloon and Touring, returns a claimed average of 44.8mpg (44.1mpg for the Touring) and emits just 165g/km of CO2 - remarkable figures considering the performance. All models with the new 50d engine come an eight-speed Sports automatic gearbox as standard.
May 2013
BMW 5 Series facelifted
The 184hp version of the 2.0-litre diesel engine in the 5 Series Saloon now has CO2 emissions of 119g/km for both manual and automatic transmissions, matching the figures of the former ED model, now discontinued. The 520d has aerodynamic additions to the wheel arches, under-body panelling and front apron which lowers its drag co-efficient (Cd) to 0.25 to enhance fuel efficiency. All 5 Series diesel models now get either a NOx Storage Catalyst or an SCR catalytic converter with urea injection, which allows them to meet EU6 emissions targets.
The BMW 520d SE Saloon costs £31,530 OTR while the BMW 520d SE Touring costs £33,855 OTR. Both models are on sale now.
All petrol versions of the 5 Series also meet the EU6 regulations. They include a new 4.4-litre twin-turboc direct-injection V8 for the 550i Saloon, Touring and Gran Turismo. The new V8 develops 449hp and 650Nm - increases of 42hp and 50Nm over the previous unit - with significantly lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of 32.8 mpg and 199g/km, depending on wheel and tyre. The BMW 550i Luxury Saloon costs £57,165 OTR, the Touring is £59,635 OTR and the Gran Turismo version is £59,060 OTR.
The network of intelligent ConnectedDrive technologies has been expanded in the new 5 Series range to advance the safety, connectivity and convenience of both drivers and passengers. The BMW Business Navigation system becomes standard on all new 5 Series Saloon and Touring models.
As a result, every 5 Series customer will now benefit from the valuable BMW Emergency Call. This feature uses the built-in BMW SIM card to establish contact with the Emergency Services in the event of an accident. Drivers can manually trigger an ‘eCall' to request assistance, but also have the reassurance that their BMW will automatically activate a call should any of the crash sensors be deployed. A genuine enhancement to vehicle safety, this service is active for the lifetime of the vehicle at no additional cost.
The optional Professional Media Package -has been enhanced to include the latest generation Professional Navigation system complemented by the full range of ConnectedDrive Services including Real Time Traffic Information and BMW Apps. This system includes the new iDrive Touch controller, allowing written entry of addresses and telephone numbers and an intelligent Route-ahead Assistant, which anticipates the forthcoming road conditions and provides advice to the driver on how to maximise an efficient driving style based on braking and acceleration points.
Advances are also seen in optional safety systems. The new Driving Assistant delivers a tailored combination of camera-based driver assistance systems that significantly reduce the risk of potential collisions at both high and low speeds. The system's attributes include a Lane Departure Warning, Front-end Collision warning and pedestrian recognition with pro-active, autonomous braking to radically improve reaction times in all manner of driving conditions.
The 5 Series family will inherit the industry leading BMW full colour Head-up Display, which now displays telephone contacts and entertainment details, such as track listings, conveniently projected directly into the driver's field of vision.
The optional BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition also evolves to include the industry leading Dynamic Light Spot. This advanced system uses a thermal imaging camera to detect heat emitting objects and, in addition to acoustically alerting the driver of potential hazards, the fog light beam is directed to clearly illuminate the object ahead to maximise the reaction speeds of the driver.
The 5 Series Saloon and Touring have been subtly modified to give their sporting characters a sharper edge. There are additional contour lines around the BMW kidney grille and a re-structured lower air intake. All variants of the 5 Series have Xenon headlights as standard and Adaptive LED lights are now optional.
The door mirrors of all 5 Series models now incorporate indicator repeaters with the Saloon and Touring having new-style tail lights with slender, elegant LED light strips. Along with an additional crease in the rear apron, they emphasise the car's width and sporting stance.
All models now have chrome strips bordering the central Control Display in the cabin, and the Saloon and Touring have larger storage areas and cup holders. The Comfort Access system can now close as well as open the boot or tailgate by a movement of the driver's foot beneath the rear apron. There are new paint and alloy wheel options, and new Luxury and Modern models to increase the range of personalisation possibilities.
From the end of July BMW will be offering an M Sport Plus package across the new BMW 1 Series, 3 Series and 5 Series ranges.
Priced from £1,400-£2,000 over the standard M Sport model, the BMW 1 and 3 Series gain Xenon Headlights with Headlight wash, Sun protection glass, harman/kardon loudspeaker system and M Sport braking system. The BMW 3 series M Sport Plus package also benefits from the addition of 19-inch M Sport light-alloy wheels.
The 5 Series models receive 19-inch M Sport alloy wheels, Sun protection glass and harman/kardon loudspeaker system, while Saloon models also gain an M rear spoiler.
May 2014
2.0-litre TwinPower diesel engines introduced
A new generation of four-cylinder diesel engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology debut summer 2014 in the BMW 518d and the BMW 520d. The new engines are designated B37 (518d) and B47 (520d) available in both Saloon and Touring body styles and depending on specification can achieve emissions of just 109g/km.
In entry-level form the new engine delivers a maximum output of 150PS (an increase of 7PS over the old engine). This allows the B37 BMW 518d Saloon to accelerate from zero to 62mph in 9.1 seconds, and to achieve average fuel consumption of 65.7mpg. The CO2 emissions are 114g/km.
For the new B47 BMW 520d, the maximum output has increased by 6PS to 190PS, while the maximum torque has been increased by 20Nm to 400Nm. These outputs mean the new BMW 520d Saloon accelerates from zero to 62mph in just 7.9 seconds. Economy is 65.7mpg (CO2 is 114g/km).
Further efficiency gains can be realised when the eight-speed automatic gearbox is specified. This combination allows the 520d Saloon to achieve as much as 68.9mpg and the CO2 emissions drop as low as 109g/km. The BMW 518d Saloon starts at £30,265 OTR. The BMW 520d Saloon is priced from £31,965 OTR.
From the summer of 2014, the new eight-speed automatic transmission featuring Proactive Drive is available for models in the BMW 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series and 5 Series ranges. On vehicles equipped with satellite navigation, the Proactive Drive system ensures that the moment to shift gears is precisely adapted to the current driving situation. The system works even if the navigation system is not active at that given moment.
What to watch out for
Seems to be a problem of some 5 Series pulling to the left. Not clear which engines and drivetrains and which tyre combinations are affected
25-02-2015:iming chain failure on 74k mile 2011 520d SE Touring. Being fixed by the dealer with modified parts.
27-06-2015:Front wishbone bushes of 2012 BMW 5 Series failed at 37 months old and 28k miles. BMW and its dealer refused to cover either under goodwill or under an extended BMW warranty without payment of a £250 excess.
02-08-2015:Timing chain failure reported on 2010 BMW 520d. Quoted £6500 for engine repairs. The reader did not supply the mileage or the service regime of the car; only that the last service was 800 miles overdue.
21-08-2015:BMW 520d now being recalled for replacement of timing chain tensioner and also the belt if it has stretched. In one case, after the repaire to a 3-year old, the engine suffered pistion failure and the entire engine was replaced at a cost of £790 to the owner.
23-09-2015:Timing chain failed on 2010 BMW 520d at 83k miles in France. Owner left stuck by the independent dealer who sold her the car.
30-10-2015:Corrosion of Printed Circuit Board on BMW 5 Series led to failure of a Daytime Running Light and failure of MoT.
17-02-2016:Report of 2010 520d starting to contaminate its oil when actively regenerating its DPF.
07-05-2016:Another report of rising oil level in a 2011 BMW 520d.
08-05-2016:Report that failed a/c condensers on 5 Series is now admitted as failure of poor quality soldering of the condensers themselves, not stone damage. Reader has now suffered this failure twice. BMW TSB notice now issued to replace these a/c condensers when cars are in for a service.
22-05-2016:Report of another failed a/c condenser, this time on a 2014 5 Series with 23,000 miles. Once again a shortage of parts and owner quoted a month's wait.
05-07-2016:Report of stop/start starter motor of 2013 BMW 520d burning out at 16,350 miles. Replaced within 24 hours under warranty, but would have been £1,000 plus if not covered.
13-07-2016:Manual transmission of 2011 520d popping out of gear.
25-08-2016:Report of clutch and DMF of 2011 BMW 520d with full BMW service history failing at 63k miles.
07-09-2016:Report of problems with automatic transmission of BMW 530D Touring. Lost drive. Transmission sump had been leaking and BMW deaer told owner that BMW had supplied software upgrades for the box and that it had insufficient oil lubricate the clutch packs. New plastic oil pan fitted. But a year later started leaking again and a 2nd new plastic oil pan was prescribed.
05-12-2016:Manual transmission problems reported with 35k mile approved used BMW 520d: Two months into ownership rattling and low howl/whining noises were coming from the gearbox area and there was significant juddering when setting off (but only after urban stop start driving).
09-02-2017:Complaint of water leaking into rear footwell of BMW 5 Series from the lowest point of the rear doors because the waterproof membrane inside the door perforates.
24-09-2017:Another report of EGR problems with an BMW 520d, this one a 2015 at 13,000 miles. Amber drive train warning came on. Had started losing coolant due to EGR valve and cooler failure. Excellent service from BMW emergency service and their Mondial assistance. Fixed under warranty.
13-12-2018:Report of BMW 520d Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler going "into meltdown" while owner was driving, forcing him and wife "to make a rapid exit from the car as smoke poured from the engine compartment."
29-12-2018:Report of coil spring failure (with a bang) on the motorway on a 2011 BMW 525d 3.0 Auto.
03-03-2019:Report of timing chain failure in 2011 BMW 520d at 107,000 miles. Owner heard a rattle. Continued driving for 20 miles. BMW dealer says engine severely damaged as a result.
06-03-2019:Report of standard 'Connected Drive' 'Business' satnav of 50k mile 2014/64 BMW 520d occasionally re-booting mid journey after which it then continues working.
13-03-2019:Rogue satnav updateseems to be circulating via an email link. Owner thinks he fell sucker to a non-BWM email. It seems to have the satnav information and they have sent an FSC code but the install does not prompt me to insert the FSC code. Now cannot re-boot the i-Drive.
22-07-2019:report of engine failure of 2015/65 BMW 520d 3 weeks after recall work for EGR valve when it also had a BMW health check. (Previous service had been independent.) BMW dealer wants £1500 to investigate cause of engine failure before deciding if the supplier is liable under Sale of Goods. Owner asked BMW to replace the engine out of goodwill but they will not do this unless their investigztion confrms a manufacturing fault.
03-10-2019:Report of n/s adaptive headlight of 60k miles 2011/61 BMW 520d filling with condensation and sending fault codes: "Side/Daytime lights fault". BMW dealer quoted £2,736 to replace it: £1,400 for the light and the rest labour because the front bumper has to be removed to carry out the job. A possible option is to use an independent BMW specialist and switch to a cheaper lighting system. (Dealer later reduced the cost to £1,800.)
04-12-2019:Report of battery problems with 2011 BMW 520d. At 40,000miles computer indicated that the battery needed replacing. This was tested under warranty, nothing was found and the computer was reset.
13-02-2020:Report of failure of transmission of February 2005 BMW 520d at 90k miles. Full BMW service history. BMW dealer said they would pay 40% of cost of replacement but still left owner with a £7000 bill.
15-02-2020:Report of failure of audio amplifier of 43,000 mile 2014 BMW 5 Series. This provides the sound for the radio, park distance control and other audible warnings. Estimated cost of repair £1500 including fitting and VAT. Out of warranty complaint to BMW UK retrieved £500 in goodwill.
