BMW is adding new entry level 520d saloon and Touring (wagon) versions to its 5-series model line.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
The company is claiming best-in-class cost of ownership for the UK market.
The 520d models have the same four-cylinder 1,995cc diesel engine as the 320d, developing 163hp at 4,000rpm and 340Nm of torque at 2,000rpm. This accelerates the manual versions to 62mph (100km/h) in 8.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 139mph, while returning 47.9mpg on the EU combined cycle and 158g/km emissions.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automatic will be optional from early in 2006.
Standard equipment includes 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, DSC traction control and eight airbags. The SE specification adds 17-inch alloy wheels with run-flat tyres, parking assistant and automatic dimming rear view mirror. A new M Sport variant includes 18-inch alloy wheels, sports seats and body styling enhancements.
With over 8,300 5 series models sold in the UK in the first six months of 2005, BMW GB claims to have outsold the nearest competitor, the Mercedes Benz E-Class, by nearly 2,000 units, the recently redesigned Audi A6 by 2,600 units and the Jaguar S-type by nearly 4,800 cars.
