BMW 520d Efficient Dynamics Edition: Saving While Having Fun

2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-08-25 09:36

The BMW 520d Efficient Dynamics Edition did not achieve the specified consumption value in the test. But the value actually achieved is also good for the upper middle class - and driving pleasure is retained.

By Fabian Hoberg

Large cars are heavy, expensive and consume a lot. One should think so. Because in the case of the BMW 520d Efficient Dynamics Edition this is only partly true. According to the manufacturer, anyone who strokes the accelerator of the 40,950 euro sedan can look forward to a four before the decimal point. At least in theory, as the everyday test with the dynamic Bayer shows.

A range of over 1000 kilometers with the BMW 520d

It makes sense that the Munich-based company also offers a low-consumption vehicle in the upper middle class. Because low consumption values are becoming more and more important and a selling point for company cars too. Compared to the equally powerful conventional 520d, the Efficient Dynamics Edition version costs 550 euros extra. With a reduced consumption of 0.4 liters per 100 kilometers, the investment can be made quickly. The economical Bavarian should only use 4.5 liters per 100 kilometers on average in the EU cycle, which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 119 g / km and makes some small cars look thirsty.

As a rule, however, and with normal driving style, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel with 135 kW / 184 hp requires an additional two liters, depending on the driving style. On the 300-kilometer route between Bonn and Eisenach and back, the minimum consumption was 5.7 liters with the accelerator pedal depressed, a very anticipatory driving style and a maximum top speed of 130 km / h. On the way back, an average of 7.2 liters flowed through the fuel lines with brisk driving style and a top speed of up to 190 km / h. With an average value of around 6.4 liters, the 5 Series can be moved around properly; in city traffic, even in winter it can hold under six liters. A good value for this class and an unladen weight of over 1.7 tons. Especially since the outside temperature was sometimes below three degrees during the journeys and the start-stop system is then deactivated. Practical: the 70 liter tank has a range of over 1000 kilometers!

Five driving modes in the BMW 520d

The Eco Pro setting of the five selectable driving modes is a good help to skimp. Among other things, this gives shift tips and a visual eco-lock warns not to drive over 130 km / h - a good compromise and no patronizing of the driver. You actually find yourself reducing average fuel consumption by shifting up early and not using the gas. And that in an otherwise rather sporty fiver. The driving style is supported by the brawny torque of 380 Newton meters already available from 1750 revolutions.

But if you want, you can also enjoy the "driving pleasure" with a fuel-saving vehicle. In the Sport and Sport Plus modes of the electronically adjustable suspension setting (1300 euros), the accelerator pedal reacts more directly and the suspension becomes noticeably firmer. The 5 Series is then in its element and surprises with light-footed sportiness on country roads and on the autobahn, without falling into rough drinking habits. Only the manual six-speed gearbox somehow no longer fits a vehicle of the upper middle class, even if it is typically BMW direct, precise and sporty to operate. The eight-speed automatic transmission would be more comfortable, but is not available for the engine. Incidentally, it is well decoupled from the body and, thanks to good insulation, holds back elegantly while driving.

With the BMW 520d in sixth gear at 50 km / h

The fuel reduction is made possible by the minimal lowering of the body, longer transmission and axle ratios and a so-called centrifugal pendulum. This reduces jerking at low speeds, so that the 520d can be driven at very low speeds, at 50 km / h in sixth gear.

The Bavarian does the sprint from 0 to 100 km / h in 8.2 seconds and the top speed is reached after a short run at 231 km / h. This means that the diesel is not just a matter of reason, but is sufficient for most purposes, including frequent drivers.

Long list of options for the BMW 520d

They will not only enjoy the drive, but also the interior, especially the comfort seats. The seat becomes a made-to-measure suit thanks to the various adjustment options. The wide center console and the driver-oriented cockpit focus on the pilot. With the navigation system Professional (3800 euros), the BMW becomes a complete workplace, since in addition to the fast and clear navigation system, internet access is also on board.

Another practical feature is the innovation package with xenon headlights, cornering lights and head-up display (2960 euros), which projects speed, speed limits and navigation instructions into the window and makes a glance at the speedometer superfluous. The comfort package with two-zone automatic air conditioning, through-loading system and keyless entry (2600 euros) is just as important in the business sedan as the reversing camera and leather interior (2010 euros).

This means that the price quickly breaks the 55,000 euro mark and the BMW 520d Efficient Dynamics Edition is no more economical. But saving is just more fun with it. (SP-X)