BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017) Review
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BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017) At A Glance
Great to drive with a perfect blend of handling and ride comfort, top quality interior, very refined, great engines including very efficient 520d.
The Mercedes E-Class Estate is more practical, ride a little firm on M Sport versions, petrol versions will be expensive to run.
The BMW 5 Series Touring offers a terrific blend of performance, practicality and poise. It rivals the estate versions of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6, taking all that is good about the 5 Series saloon then adding room for the dog. As an all-rounder, a BMW 520d is hard to beat. All that’s left for you to decide is whether to opt for SE or M Sport trim.
A terrific all-rounder. All the family car you could ever need. Still want that SUV? Other cliches are available, but few estate cars are as capable as the BMW 5 Series Touring. It takes all the benefits of a 5 Series saloon, then adds a little extra space at the back.
The result is one of the most desirable estate cars on the used market. While many people have turned to the perceived benefits of owning an SUV, the enlightened know that an estate car will be more practical, nicer to drive and more exclusive.
Launched in 2010 and facelifted in 2013, the 5 Series Touring is a rival to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, Audi A6 Avant and Volvo V90.
It’s not as roomy as some of its key competitors, but you’re unlikely to require more space. The boot is vast, there’s loads of headroom in the cabin, and only a high transmission tunnel stops it from being a genuine five-seater. You can fit an adult in the middle rear seat, but they won’t thank you for it.
The cabin is finished to the high standards we’ve come to expect from BMW. The buttons and switches operate with precision and solidity, while the soft-touch plastics and plush materials impress, even on the entry-level SE model. Many new car buyers opted for the M Sport version, which raises the level of perceived quality.
Indeed, a 520d M Sport is the most ubiquitous BMW 5 Series Touring spec and engine combination. This is hardly surprising when you consider the all-round excellence of the 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine. The combination of smooth and punchy acceleration, quietness on a motorway, and remarkable fuel efficiency, make this the default choice when buying a used 5 Series.
The 518d is slightly cheaper to buy and run, while the 520i is arguably the best choice if you don’t fancy a diesel but still have one eye on fuel economy. The six-cylinder engines are desirable, and there’s even a V8 range-topper, if you can live with the expense.
Regardless of the engine, the 5 Series Touring is a brilliant car to drive. The steering is sharp and bristling with feedback, the handling is precise and composed, while the ride quality is supple, if not cushion-soft. After a day on a motorway, the 5 Series Touring will come alive on a B-road. It’s the ultimate all-rounder.
So what’s not to like? Well, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate is bigger and more luxurious. We’d also concede that a BMW X5 feels a little more special, even if that’s more of a psychological benefit. We’d be reaching for drawbacks if we said the styling was a tad dull.
Reviews for BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017)'s top 3 rivals
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BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017) handling and engines
- Engines range from 530d Automatic to 550i
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 25–55 mpg
BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017): Handling and ride quality
The 5 Series Touring is as good to drive as the regular 5 Series saloon. It’s arguably the most satisfying car in its class, albeit without the overall cushion-soft comfort of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate and Volvo V90. That said, the 5 Series Touring is far from uncomfortable, offering a terrific blend of precision handling and supple ride qualities.
Even with a boot loaded with luggage or dogs, the car changes direction with eagerness and poise. Not that your dog will thank you for it.
The self-levelling rear suspension helps to keep the back of the car in check – helpful if you’re carrying cakes to the village fair. Our only complaint would be the slightly firmer ride of the M Sport models, but given their popularity, we suspect you’re not bothered.
BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017): Engines
The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel is the most common engine in the BMW 5 Series Touring, most notably the 520d. It produced 184PS at launch, later increased to 190PS, but few engines offer such a remarkable blend of pace, torque, economy and efficiency.
The 0-62mph dash is completed in around eight seconds. Most come with an outstanding eight-speed transmission, but the rare six-speed manual gearbox is a delight to use.
A 518d was added to the range in 2013, but it’s slower to 62mph and only marginally more economical. The six-cylinder 530d is a cracking engine – quicker to 62mph than the 530i petrol, but with the fuel economy to rival the 520d.
The 520i is a more rounded choice for those who don’t want a diesel engine. The 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine produces 184PS, so it will hit 62mph in 8.3 seconds. The 528i ups the ante with 245PS.
BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017): Safety
The BMW 5 Series was awarded a five-star safety rating when it was crash-tested by Euro NCAP in 2010. The individual scores were impressive, including 95 percent for adult occupant protection and a maximum 100 percent for safety assist features.
This was one of the first cars to feature an eCall system. It automatically dials the emergency services in the event of a collision, using the navigation system to pinpoint the car’s location. The 5 Series Touring also features stability control, a speed limiter, front and side airbags, head airbags and a seatbelt-on reminder for all five seats. A new driver assistance pack arrived in 2013, while night vision was an option.
BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017): Towing
The popular 520d boasts a maximum towing capacity of 2000kg, making it an ideal estate car for tow car duties. In 2011, the BMW 520d was awarded a five-star rating in the 1725kg to 1899kg class at the Tow Car Awards.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 518d | 57–60 mpg | 9.9–10.1 s | 127–132 g/km |
| 518d Automatic | 55–63 mpg | 9.8–10.0 s | 123–134 g/km |
| 520d | 55–61 mpg | 8.1–8.3 s | 127–134 g/km |
| 520d Automatic | 55–63 mpg | 8.0–8.2 s | 123–134 g/km |
| 520i | 40–42 mpg | 8.3 s | 162 g/km |
| 520i Automatic | 40–45 mpg | 8.3 s | 152–162 g/km |
| 523i Automatic | 40–44 mpg | 8.3 s | 152–162 g/km |
| 525d | 52–54 mpg | 7.2 s | 141 g/km |
| 525d Automatic | 55–58 mpg | 7.1 s | 134 g/km |
| 528i | 39–40 mpg | 6.4 s | 162–167 g/km |
| 528i Automatic | 43–44 mpg | 6.5 s | 154 g/km |
| 530d | 47–48 mpg | 6.2 s | 155–159 g/km |
| 530d Automatic | 51–59 mpg | 5.9–10.1 s | 127–144 g/km |
| 530i | 35–36 mpg | 6.7 s | 183–187 g/km |
| 530i Automatic | 36–37 mpg | 6.8 s | 177–181 g/km |
| 535d | 50–50 mpg | 5.4–5.5 s | 148–149 g/km |
| 535i | 34–34 mpg | 5.8 s | 190–194 g/km |
| 535i Automatic | 37–43 mpg | 5.8–6.5 s | 154–179 g/km |
| 550i | 26–32 mpg | 4.7–5.1 s | 206–249 g/km |
Real MPG average for the BMW 5 Series Touring (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
74%
Real MPG
25–55 mpg
MPGs submitted
753
BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017) interior
- Boot space is 560–1670 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of five stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4907 mm |
| Width | 1860–2102 mm |
| Height | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2968 mm |
BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017): Practicality
Predictably, the BMW 5 Series Touring boasts a large boot. There’s 560 litres of luggage capacity with the rear seats in use, which is less than you’ll find in the wagon version of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, but you’re unlikely to notice the difference.
The rear seats split 40/20/40 to create a load area of 1670 litres, with the practicality enhanced by the fact that the rear seats fold entirely flat.
There’s more good news in the cabin, where you’ll find enough headroom in the back for three adults. That said, the middle rear seat is best reserved for occasional use, as the transmission tunnel is a right pain in the leg on a long journey. However, it’s certainly more spacious than the saloon, with the feeling of space enhanced by the larger expanse of glass.
Self-levelling rear suspension is standard, but although there are two Isofix points in the back, you won’t find one in the front.
BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017): Quality and finish
Crucially, even the entry-level SE model feels like an upmarket vehicle, although the M Sport certainly raises the level of perceived quality.
Everything has an upmarket feel. The climate control dials turn with the positivity of a wheel on a bank vault. The air vents are weighty and solid. Even the hard plastics feel more premium than they do in some rivals. There’s nothing utilitarian about this estate car.
BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017): Infotainment
The infotainment system is nestled within the dashboard to the left of the instrument panel. It’s accessed using the familiar iDrive rotary controller, regardless of the trim level. Base-spec models get a narrower screen and no sat-nav, while the Business Advanced Media adds navigation to the mix. For the best result, opt for the BMW Professional Multimedia system, which comes with an impressive widescreen format.
Navigation became standard as part of the 2013 facelift, while the optional BMW Professional Media included a new iDrive Touch controller. This allows you to access the system using handwriting recognition.
BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017) value for money
BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017): Prices
Prices of the earliest examples of this generation of 5 Series Touring have dropped as low as £3500. There are a range of trim levels to choose from at this end of the market, but most cars will be 520d models with around 200,000 miles on the clock. While that’s high, it should provide some confidence that this engine is capable of going the distance.
A facelifted model will cost at least £7500, but you might struggle to notice the difference on the outside. Visually, it looks a little better, but the biggest changes were standard-fit xenon headlights, LEDs in the door mirrors and changes to the infotainment system.
Some late models are available for up to £25,000, which puts it in line with the all-new 5 Series Touring. The chances are you’ll get more spec and a desirable engine in the old model, but the latest 5 Series Touring is safer and more efficient.
A 520d M Sport is the most common engine/trim combination on the used market. Indeed, petrol versions account for a tiny proportion of 5 Series Touring sales, so you’ll have to be patient if you don’t want a diesel engine.
Finance deals start from around £120 a month. This is based on a four-year hire purchase contract and a £1000 deposit. Later cars could cost as much as £500 a month on a four-year PCP deal.
BMW 5 Series Touring (2010 – 2017): Running Costs
The 518d, introduced as part of the facelift, doesn’t offer a significant benefit over the 520d.
We’ll use Real MPG figures, as these are more representative of what you can expect to see in the real world. The 520d should return 44.2mpg with a manual gearbox, which is significantly less than the official 55.4mpg to 61.4mpg. The figure drops to 43.1mpg in the automatic version.
Few people opted for the 518d. It’s no great loss, because 44.5mpg in the manual version, and 41.8mpg in the automatic, don’t represent a massive increase in efficiency. The 525d should offer 38.0mpg as a manual or 40.3mpg in automatic guise. The figures are just shy of 40mpg in the 530d.
The petrol variants won’t be cheap to run. You can expect to achieve no more than the low-30s in the 520i, 528i and 530i, or high-20s in the 535i.
Thanks to its low CO2 emissions, the 520d will cost £125 a year to tax, but you’ll pay as much as £265 to tax a 535i. Buy a 5 Series Touring diesel registered on or after 1 April 2017, and you could pay just £30 a year. Insurance groups range from 30 to 46, so it’s not a cheap car to insure.
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Remember when estate cars were the first choice for families looking for an estate car? When you discover the all-round excellence of the 5 Series Touring, you have to question why so many people are switching to SUVs.
It’s as good to drive as the smaller BMW 3 Series, as practical as the BMW X5, and packed with the same sort of tech you’d find in the contemporary BMW 7 Series. Opt for the 520d, and it’s likely to be no more expensive to run than a family hatchback.
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4907 mm |
| Width | 1860–2102 mm |
| Height | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2968 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1710–1975 kg |
| Boot Space | 560–1670 L |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Servicing | 18000 miles |
| Spare Wheel | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Run-flat tyres | ||
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £32,590–£60,220 |
| Insurance Groups | 30–46 |
| Road Tax Bands | D–L |
| Official MPG | 26.4–62.8 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 5 |
On sale until April 2017
On sale until May 2014
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 518d Luxury 143 5dr | £35,520 | 56.5 mpg | 10.1 s |
| 518d Luxury 143 Auto 5dr | £37,070 | 55.4 mpg | 10.0 s |
| 518d M Sport 143 5dr | £35,520 | 56.5 mpg | 10.1 s |
| 518d M Sport 143 Auto 5dr | £37,070 | 55.4 mpg | 10.0 s |
| 518d Modern 143 5dr | £34,720 | 56.5 mpg | 10.1 s |
| 518d Modern 143 Auto 5dr | £36,270 | 55.4 mpg | 10.0 s |
| 518d SE 143 5dr | £32,590 | 58.9 mpg | 10.1 s |
| 518d SE 143 Auto 5dr | £34,140 | 57.6 mpg | 10.0 s |
| 520d Luxury 184 5dr | £37,220 | 55.4 mpg | 8.3 s |
| 520d Luxury 184 Auto 5dr | £38,770 | 55.4 mpg | 8.2 s |
| 520d M Sport 184 5dr | £37,220 | 55.4 mpg | 8.3 s |
| 520d M Sport 184 Auto 5dr | £38,770 | 55.4 mpg | 8.2 s |
| 520d Modern 184 5dr | £36,420 | 55.4 mpg | 8.3 s |
| 520d Modern 184 Auto 5dr | £37,970 | 55.4 mpg | 8.2 s |
| 520d SE 184 5dr | £34,290 | 57.6 mpg | 8.3 s |
| 520d SE 184 Auto 5dr | £35,840 | 57.6 mpg | 8.2 s |
| 520i Modern 184 5dr | £37,365 | 40.4 mpg | 8.3 s |
| 520i Modern 184 Auto 5dr | £38,915 | 43.5 mpg | 8.3 s |
| 525d Modern 218 5dr | £41,325 | 52.3 mpg | 7.2 s |
| 525d Modern 218 Auto 5dr | £42,880 | 55.4 mpg | 7.1 s |
| 528i Modern 245 Auto 5dr | £40,930 | 42.8 mpg | 6.5 s |
On sale until April 2014
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 528i Luxury 5dr | £40,690 | 39.2 mpg | 6.4 s |
| 528i M Sport 5dr | £40,690 | 39.2 mpg | 6.4 s |
| 528i Modern 5dr | £39,890 | 39.2 mpg | 6.4 s |
| 528i SE 5dr | £37,780 | 40.4 mpg | 6.4 s |
| 550i Luxury Auto 5dr | £60,070 | 32.1 mpg | 4.7 s |
| 550i M Sport 5dr Auto | £60,220 | 32.1 mpg | 4.7 s |
On sale until July 2013
| Estate | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 530d M Sport 5dr | £45,050 | 47.1 mpg | 6.2 s |
| 530d SE 5dr | £41,750 | 47.9 mpg | 6.2 s |
| 530i M Sport 5dr | £41,780 | 35.3 mpg | 6.7 s |
| 530i M Sport Auto 5dr | £43,305 | 36.2 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 530i SE 5dr | £38,340 | 35.8 mpg | 6.7 s |
| 530i SE Auto 5dr | £39,865 | 37.2 mpg | 6.8 s |
| 535d SE 5dr Auto | £47,225 | 50.4 mpg | 5.5 s |
| 535i M Sport 5dr | £45,195 | 34.0 mpg | 5.8 s |
| 535i SE 5dr | £41,895 | 34.4 mpg | 5.8 s |
| 535i SE Auto 5dr | £43,420 | 36.7 mpg | 5.9 s |
| 550i SE 5dr Auto | £56,055 | 26.4 mpg | 5.1 s |
Model History
- March 2010: BMW 5 Series Touring unveiled
- October 2010: 525d and 535d launched
- July 2011
- May 2013: 5 Series facelift announced
- May 2014
March 2010
BMW 5 Series Touring unveiled
Initially available in four derivatives, the new BMW 5 Series Touring offers a choice of two petrol cars, the 523i and 535i, and two diesel models, the 520d and 530d. All four are packed with innovative technology that ensures class-leading performance, fuel economy and CO2 emissions, while providing an elegant, comfortable and driver-oriented estate car.
|
Model |
Price |
Output (HP) |
Torque (Nm) |
0-60mph |
MPG (Combined |
CO2 (g/km) |
Top speed (MPH) |
|
BMW 520d Touring |
£30,380 |
184 |
380 |
8.3 |
54.3 |
137 |
138 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
BMW 530d Touring |
£39,400 |
245 |
540 |
6.4 |
44.1 |
169 |
151 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
BMW 523i Touring |
£33,585 |
204 |
270 |
8.2 |
35.8 |
185 |
144 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
BMW 535i Touring |
£39,650 |
306 |
400 |
6.0 |
32.8 |
201 |
155 |
The new BMW 5 Series Touring is an uncompromising synthesis of power, handling, versatility and elegant style. It has been designed to reflect its almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution with beautifully balanced proportions, short overhangs, a flowing roofline and a long, contoured bonnet. It is at once a sporting, dynamic and attractive car with intelligent versatility built in.
For example, all models feature 40/20/40 flat-folding rear seat backrests, a luggage load cover that retracts and lowers automatically with the tailgate and a self opening rear window for ease of loading smaller items - a unique feature in the market. All models also feature self-levelling air suspension at the rear to ensure that the Touring is unaffected when carrying heavy loads. For the comfort of driver and passengers alike Dakota leather upholstery is now standard for all models as is automatic air conditioning with two-zone control.
Outside, the roof rails are now finished in matt aluminium, although black high gloss or matt black can be specified at no cost and chromeline exterior window surrounds are now standard. Matt aluminium or high gloss shadowline can be specified optionally. Park Distance Control, front and rear, and Bluetooth telephone preparation are also now standard for all models while a USB audio interface and ambient lighting are standard for six-cylinder cars.
The boot capacity of the new Touring is 560 litres, 60 more than the outgoing model, and a huge 1,670 litres with all rear seats folded. A further option is Extended Storage that includes "cargo" functionality for rear seats. This allows the rear seat backrests to be fixed in a more upright position thereby increasing luggage capacity by 30 litres and minimising wasted space behind rear seats. This feature increases normal load capacity to 590 litres as well as adding lashing rails, storage nets and straps. Naturally, a ski bag is available as an option.
The new Touring has the longest wheelbase in its class at 2,968mm, creating a greater feeling of interior space. This translates into an extra 13mm of knee room for rear passengers, compared to the previous 5 Series. Inside, the cabin features many of the sporting but luxurious quality and comfort features found in the BMW 7 Series. Inclined seven degrees towards the driver, the asymmetrically designed centre console ensures that all controls are comfortably within the reach. The multifunctional steering wheel has been simplified, putting all of the function keys in one hand and infotainment in the other.
The use of partial Black Panel technology on the instrument panel and centre console adds an extra touch of luxury to the cabin. A signature piece of BMW design, Black Panel technology integrates the centre console into the trim of the car. High-resolution electronic displays are visible when needed, but when not in use they discreetly blend in to form an elegant black band across the interior.
The 520d Touring is expected to be the biggest seller in the UK. Its 1,995cc four cylinder diesel engine features the latest generation common-rail direct injection and a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry which increases power to 184hp at 4,000rpm. Combined with torque of 380 Nm from only 1,900 rpm this jewel of an engine ensures that it can provide swift and safe overtaking responses at any time.
The 520d Touring accelerates from zero to 62mph in 8.3 seconds and onto a top speed of 138mph. Sipping fuel at a combined fuel consumption of 54.3mpg and offering a CO2 rating of 137g/km, the BMW 520d Touring is the most efficient car in the executive estate car segment.
The silky smooth straight-six turbocharged engine of the 530d Touring ups the diesel ante. Now equipped with increased power of 245hp at 4,000rpm and with a peak torque of 540Nm from as low as 1,750rpm, the 530d Touring provides more of what enthusiastic customers love. With the introduction of upgraded piezo-injectors, the BMW 530d emits just 165g/km (with automatic transmission), while averaging a combined consumption figure of 44.8mpg. The BMW 530d is capable of accelerating from zero to 62mph in just 6.4 seconds and attaining an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph.
Joining the diesel-powered cars from launch are two straight-six petrol engines - the 523i and the 535i. The 535i is the first engine to combine a single turbocharged engine with High Precision Direct Injection and VALVETRONIC - BMW's own system that controls how much the engine's valves open for optimum efficiency. These measures allow the engine to meet strict emissions regulations whilst delivering optimum performance with a zero to 62mph time of 6.0 seconds and an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Consumption and emissions figures reflect its technological prowess with 33.2mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 197g/km, both values using the more popular automatic transmission.
The naturally-aspirated 523i Touring has also utilises High Precision Direct Injection resulting in high-revving, responsive driving characteristics, combined with low fuel consumption and emissions. The 523i unit delivers maximum output of 204hp at 6,100 rpm and a peak torque of 270Nm from 1,500 all the way through to 4,250 rpm to ensure smooth progression at any speed. Its responsiveness translates into a zero to 62mph speed of 8.2 seconds with a top speed of 155mph*. Its economical nature delivers CO2 emissions of 183g/km and a combined consumption of 36.2mpg.
The new BMW 5 Series Touring comes with a dazzling array of EfficientDynamics technologies. The BMW 520d Touring is the first 5 Series to come with Auto Start-Stop, reducing the engine idle period when coming to a short stop. All manual gearbox models come with an Optimum gearshift indicator to help drivers decide when to change gear to optimise the car's efficiency.
Completing the panoply of BMW's pioneering EfficientDynamics package are Brake Energy Regeneration, Active Aerodynamics, Low rolling resistance tyres, Electric Power Steering and lightweight engineering throughout the vehicle. High-precision direct fuel injection is also fitted on both petrol models.
All BMW 5 Series Touring models come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox which has been optimised compared to previous transmissions for greater efficiency. A redesigned gearshift lever and enhanced internal packaging have resulted in a smoother, sportier gearshift.
The option of BMW's new eight-speed automatic transmission brings the luxury and refinement of the 7 Series to the new Touring range. While being six per cent more fuel efficient, the weight and size of the gearbox remain unchanged. Buyers of all variants can specify the eight-speed automatic gearbox or an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddles for those that prefer more enthusiastic style of driving.
For those BMW 5 Series Touring 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.
October 2010
525d and 535d launched
Two additional diesel engines and a further petrol unit complement the range of powerplants available to the new 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
The 5 Series engine range grows 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 emissions 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 | 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 |
* Electronically limited ** Automatic only
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 also sees 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.
May 2013
5 Series facelift announced
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
New 2.0-litre TwinPower diesel engines for BMW 5 Series 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 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 150hp (an increase of 7hp over the old engine). This allows the BMW 518d Touring to accelerate from zero to 62mph in 9.5 seconds, and to achieve average fuel consumption of 61.4mpg. The CO2 emissions are 122g/km.
For the new BMW 520d, the maximum output has increased by 6hp to 190hp, while the maximum torque has been increased by 20Nm to 400Nm. These outputs mean the new BMW 520d Touring accelerates from zero to 62mph in 8.1 seconds. Economy is 61.4mpg (CO2 122g/km).
Further efficiency gains can be realised when the eight-speed automatic gearbox is specified. This combination allows the 520d Touring to achieve as much as 62.8mpg and the CO2 emissions drop as low as 118g/km.
What to watch out for
Badly fitted blanking plate for LHD steering column in 2012 5 Series Touring led to a water leak into the left side footwells.
22-07-2014:Rear air suspension collapsed on 75k mile 2011 BMW 5 Series Touring. Both BMW dealer and its used car warranty insurer refused to pay citing 'wear and tear'.
25-02-2015:Timing chain failure on 74k mile 2011 520d SE Touring. Being fixed by the dealer with modified parts.
08-09-2015:Another rear air suspension collapse, this on a 2011 5 Series Touring at 63,000 miles. Also broke the left rear damper. Olympic Warranties refused to pay citing 'wear and tear'.
15-10-2015:Further report of failed rear suspension on a 5 Series Touring, this one a 34k mile 2012 520d. Several weeks wait for the parts.
08-11-2015:Yet another rear airbag failure reported, this time on a 2011 BMW 520d Touring. More than 5 week's wait for the replacement part.
20-11-2015:Complaint of ride quality firming up on 18,500 mile 2012 BMW 520d Touring. Probably rear airbag failure.
25-11-2015:Complaint of failure of rear airbag of 2012 BMW 5 Series Touring. New one has been on order for 7 weeks now and despite repeated chasing, the reader cannot get a date from BMW on when they will be available for fitting.
21-02-2016:Rear air suspension of Used Approved BMW 5 Series Touring failed in October 2015 and took BMW dealer 4 months to get the parts replace it. However, this indicates that the suspension parts are now available.
20-08-2016:Rear suspension airbag deterioration reported on 15k mile 2012 BMW 520d Touring by BMW dealer to customer; cost of replacement quoted at £600.
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.
09-07-2017:Report of two failed a/c condensers and also failed rear suspenson on BMW F11 520d Touring.
06-04-2018:More rear air suspension failure reported, all on the same 2012 BMW F11 520d Touring, purchased used in 2015 and now at 58,352 miles. .
10-09-2018:Report of a fatal flaw developing after a year and 12,000 miles in the electronically controlled suspension (Adaptive Drive = Dynamic Drive + Adaptive Damping) of a very highly optioned £65,000 BMW 535d Touring purchased new in late 2014. This caused the car to shake vigorously and collapse on one side.
27-06-2019:Report of failure of iDrive of 2016 BMW 5 Series Touring 6 weeks out of warranty. it just keeps on rebooting so there's no radio, satnav, reversing camera, etc.
