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Following Romania’s introduction of the rear-wheel-drive 520i, Bulgaria enthusiastically embraced the G60 featuring the xDrive-equipped 520d, as part of the new BMW 5 Series. The eighth generation of this luxury sedan made its debut in the local market in October. It showcases the optional M Sport Package and the captivating Individual Tanzanite Blue metallic paint during a special event.
BMW showcased the redesigned 5 Series with its largest offering of 21-inch two-tone wheels, rivalling the E-Class and A6. While the brand typically emphasizes black accents, this diesel 5er retained silver trim, foregoing the M Sport Package Pro. However, shiny black surfaces adorn the front, rear, and side skirts. In 2023, factory-fitted carbon fibre side mirrors are available for the 520d, although this specific model featured conventional body-colored covers.
The only diesel models offered at launch are the 520d in rear- and all-wheel-drive variations. However, rumours suggest that BMW plans to only produce the 540d with xDrive beginning in July 2024. The less powerful 520d employs a four-cylinder, 2.0-litre engine with 197 horsepower (145 kilowatts). This also includes 400 Newton meters (295 pound-feet) of torque if you don’t want to wait till then for a diesel 5 Series.
Featuring a mild-hybrid four-cylinder diesel engine, the 520d delivers ample power to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.3 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 145 mph (233 km/h). The 520d xDrive achieves the same acceleration but with a slightly lower top speed of 142 mph (228 km/h). Both 5 Series diesel models come equipped with a standard 60-litre fuel tank and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Weight is a serious concern because the new 5 Series is more prominent than its G30 predecessor. The 520d weighs 1,775 kilograms (3,913 pounds) without a driver. However, the equivalent xDrive model adds 55 kilograms (121 pounds) for a total of 1,830 kilograms (4,034 pounds).
There is an ongoing shift towards plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles. Thus, it wouldn’t be surprising if this proves to be the last generation of the 5 Series featuring diesel engines. Following the aftermath of the Dieselgate scandal involving the Volkswagen Group, this type of engine experienced a decline in popularity across Europe. With stricter emissions regulations taking effect, it’s reasonable to assume that the era of BMW models ending with a “d” in their titles is coming to a close, signalling a diminishing future for diesel engines.
