BMW expands its 5 Series with a new entry-level diesel model.

This sixth model variant, the 520d, has the lowest fuel consumption figures in the range, while developing maximum output of 130kW and peak torque of 350Nm.

This translates into a 8.6-second 0 to 100km/h time and a top speed of 223km/h. The average fuel consumption is 5.6l/100km while the CO⊂2 emissions are 149g/km.

As with the other 5 Series variants, BMW 520d features the latest design elements including the headlights and rear light clusters with their clear glass look, the chrome headlight surrounds with position light rings at the front, LED direction indicators and five light conductor rods at the rear. There's the newly contoured air intake with upward-facing design and trademark kidney grille with individual surrounds flush to the front air dam. Greater horizontal subdivision and additional light contours at the rear create a more powerful look, while the light contour in the side-sills creates a new focal point from the side.

Inside it's all about "sophisticated materials and refined style" including four interior colour worlds, six upholstery materials, and six trim variants.

The iDrive control system is enhanced by eight "favourite" buttons, while peace of mind is promoted by features like "Active Cruise Control" complete with Stop & Go function for keeping a safe distance in traffic; "Lane Departure Warning" with a vibration signal on the steering wheel, "Head-Up Display", optional "Night Vision", "High-Beam Assistant" and "Active Steering", and navigation systems with optimised graphics and full-word voice entry for 80 000 towns and cities.

Also featured are the lightweight chassis with aluminium double-joint tiebar axle at the front and aluminium Integral-IV axle at the rear, DSC Dynamic Stability Control and electrohydraulic brake system.

Pricing:
BMW 520d manual: R404 000
BMW 520d automatic: R419 300