The BMW 520d

So, let's get into the rollercoaster ride that is the BMW 520d—a car that has me reconsidering the fate of the diesel engine. Why rush to toss diesel into the fossil fuel retirement home when it’s still got a few party tricks left? This beemer had me smiling from ear to ear!

The Great Kidney Grille Debate

First, the styling. Oh boy, this car has the looks that can either spark love at first sight or a midlife crisis. The grille? It's a conversation starter, or stopper, depending on your taste. Metallic grey with Titanium Bronze trim? Bold choice. But black or silver trim might save you from looking like you crave attention on the daily. Either way, I like it!

Tech Wonderland on Wheels

Inside, it’s like stepping into a luxury lounge with a side of Silicon Valley. The tech is user-friendly enough that you won't feel like it’s silently judging your tech skills—or lack thereof. And comfort? Think of your grandma’s couch but with a lot of features and climate control. I would happily cruise down to Cape Town in this. Just not the biggest fan of piano-black things… fingerprints are always present. (A Microfibre cloth will sort that out very quickly)

Diesel with a Twist

The heart of the beast is a 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine paired with mild hybrid tech. It's like the Diesel Olympics out here, with fuel efficiency so good, your wallet might just send you a thank-you card. BMW Claims 5.6l/100km and I get a real world figure of 5.8l/100km. Now if I really tried I am sure I could even beat the claimed figure. You know, economy-run style!

Smooth Operator, But No Race Car

Driving the 520d is like lounging on a cloud. It’s comfy, quiet…very quiet, and feels like a well-tuned sofa on wheels. Forget about tearing up the track—this car is all about keeping your spine happy on long drives while saving you money. Let’s be real, if you want to go racing, you will rather opt for another model in the BMW range…Mmmmmm?

The Wallet’s Dilemma

At over a million rand, this ride isn’t exactly “budget-friendly”. But what can you buy for under a bar these days? Throw in some options, and you’re kissing an extra R100k+ goodbye. But hey, the maintenance plan sweetens the deal a bit.

Summary of Figures:

• 0 to 100 km/h: 7.31 seconds

• Top speed: 233 km/h

• Power: 145 kW @ 4 000

• Torque: 400 N.m @ 1 500 – 2 750 r/min

• Fuel Economy: Our real world figure 5.8 L/100km (claimed 5.6 L/100km)

• Tank Capacity: 60 liters

• Range: ~1,200 km

• Trunk Space: 520 liters

• Price: R1 25mil (base), +R100k with options

• Safety: 5 stars Euro NCAP

• Maintenance Plan: 5-year/100,000 km

Verdict

Sure, the BMW 520d might have lost some of its pep, but what it offers in comfort and efficiency makes it a worthy contender in the executive sedan game. I honestly believe that the BMW 520d is a hot contender for the next COTY competition! So if you are carshopping, give diesel another thought—you might, no, you WILL be pleasantly surprised!