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BMW 5 Series 2011 review

BMW BMW Reviews BMW 5 Series BMW 5 Series Reviews BMW 5 Series 2011 BMW 520d BMW 520d Reviews BMW 520d 2011 Sedan Best Sedan Cars BMW Sedan Range Car Reviews
This is BMW's entry level 5-Series, the economy king with a surprising amount of kit in the new generation model.
Peter Barnwell
https://www.carsguide.com.au/authors/peter-barnwell
24 Jan 2011
3 min read
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WE turn the spotlight on automotive's newest and brightest stars, as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. Ultimately, however, there is only one question that really needs answering would you buy one?

WHAT IS IT?

This is BMW's entry level 5-Series, the economy king with a surprising amount of kit in the new generation model. Better buying than a 3-Series with a larger engine

HOW MUCH?

Priced from $83,300 which is competitive against main rivals.

WHAT ARE THE COMPETITORS?

Which are the Mercedes-Benz E250CDi and Audi A6 2.0 TDi. Possible nuisance value from other brands like VW with the Passat CC.

WHAT'S UNDER THE BONNET?

This 2.0-litre turbo diesel, four cylinder engine used in numerous BMW models including the X1, X3, 320d and 120d. It's a worthy powerplant delivering 135kW/380Nm in the 520d with a surprising turn of speed and strong acceleration, sharpened when needed simply by pressing the Sport button on the console.

HOW DOES IT GO?

Impressive, roll on is as good as a petrol 3.5-litre V6, possibly better and it runs smooth and silent. Particle filter takes noxious odour away when idling in the drive. Slightly detectable as a diesel on start up - nowhere else. Nimble feel for a medium large car tipping the scales at 1625kg.

IS IT ECONOMICAL?

Rated as low as 5.2-litres/100km but we are seeing a neat 6.0 on the trip computer that was activate at zero kilometres and the test car was showing 4000km _ pretty good.

IS IT `GREEN?'

Yep, gets a five star green rating

IS IT SAFE?

Gets a five star crash rating thanks to six air bags, stability control, safety bonnet, strengthened body, plenty more.

IS IT COMFORTABLE?

Supremely. Has large, soft leather seats, roomy cabin, minimal noise intrusion, plenty of goodies to keep you happy.

WHAT'S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

Surprisingly good competent, responsive, comfortable suspension that offers sporty drive feel with excellent bump control as well. Well weighted steering, strong brakes, grippy tyres. Like to look too though a bit on the conservative side - right in target market territory.

IS IT VALUE FOR MONEY?

Yes, well equipped, electric park brake stop/start button, cruise, leather, decent satnav and audio, Bluetooth, eight-speed auto head up display to name just a few features.

WOULD WE BUY ONE?

Yes, we'd look at one over the entire 5-Series range - you don't need anything more.

VERDICT

Bimmer's best buy... the 520d.

BMW 520D 2011:

Engine Type Diesel Turbo 4, 2.0L
Fuel Type Diesel
Fuel Efficiency 5.2L/100km (combined)
Seating 5
Price From $11,110 - $15,180
Safety Rating

Range and Specs

Vehicle Specs Price*
520d Base 2.0L, Diesel, 8 SPEED AUTOMATIC $11,110 - $15,180
See all 2011 BMW 5 Series in the Range
*Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price
Peter Barnwell
https://www.carsguide.com.au/authors/peter-barnwell
Peter Barnwell is a former CarsGuide contributor and News Corp Australia Editor. During his decades of experience as an automotive expert, he has specialised in writing about performance vehicles.
About Author
Disclaimer: The pricing information shown in the editorial content (Review Prices) is to be used as a guide only and is based on information provided to Carsguide Autotrader Media Solutions Pty Ltd (Carsguide) both by third party sources and the car manufacturer at the time of publication. The Review Prices were correct at the time of publication. Carsguide does not warrant or represent that the information is accurate, reliable, complete, current or suitable for any particular purpose. You should not use or rely upon this information without conducting an independent assessment and valuation of the vehicle.

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