Video Review: 2024 BMW 520i

Introduction

The 2024 BMW 5 Series is a testament to the changing landscape of the industry embracing the future. While it used to offer a variety of powertrains, the 5-Series now focuses on power with its petrol engine, the 520i. Gone are the days of engines for sedans as BMW aims to redefine efficiency and innovation in this new electrified era.

Interior – A Marvel of Design and Technology

Combining luxury with cutting-edge technology, stepping inside the 520i is an experience that will leave you captivated. Despite being the base model, its interior is truly impressive and memorable. Every detail has been carefully curated by BMW to surprise and delight. The crystal dashboard trim adorned with flowing backlighting creates a stunning spectacle, especially during sunset.

Beyond interior aesthetics the driving experience is exceptional. The seating position offers adjustment for different body types complemented by a luxurious and ergonomic steering wheel. The latest screen technology showcases graphics and quick responsiveness to touch inputs, rotary controller commands, or voice prompts via the Hey BMW system.

BMW has made improvements in user-friendliness making essential features more accessible although some complexities remain.

The rear seats for instance are designed with thoughtfulness as the ones offering generous head and legroom. While the seat foot space is affected by a transmission tunnel hump, the left and right footwells compensate with their depth. The rear bench can be folded in a 40/20/40 configuration adding practicality, while there is claimed to be 520 liters of boot space for the cargo room.

Mechanics – Unleashing Power and Efficiency

Underneath its hood, the BMW 520i boasts a turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with a displacement of 2.0 liters. With 153kW of power and 330Nm of torque, it offers an efficient driving experience. The inclusion of a 48V hybrid system complements city driving by shutting off the engine during stops, resulting in quiet and refined performance. While the acceleration may not match that of sports car engines, it truly shines as a cruiser machine with excellent noise suppression and comfort on urban terrains.

Driving Experience – Effortless Cruising with a Touch of Dynamism

Just like its sibling, the 2024 BMW 7-Series, the 5-Series 520i provides an incredibly refined driving experience. The gentle sound of the engine when starting in cold weather sets the tone for a peaceful journey. The 520i is truly impressive when it comes to reducing noise in a sedan, making it an outstanding choice for a comfortable ride over city streets. It effortlessly proves itself as a companion whether you’re driving in the city or on the highway.

While the 2.0-liter engine provides power for driving pushing it to its limits, it feels that a smaller engine is pulling a massive luxurious sedan, despite weighing 1700kg. Also, the 520i handles exceptionally on tight corners offering good visibility and an acceptable turning radius, which makes it surprisingly agile for its size.

On highways, the 5 Series truly excels by cruising at speeds with very little wind or road noise which does not disturb while driving on the road. Its advanced features like cruise control and lane keep assist seamlessly enhance your driving experience. However, one drawback is that adjusting driver assist settings has become more complicated with the updated interface.

Safety – A Guardian of Five Stars

The BMW 5 Series proudly boasts a five-star ANCAP safety rating reflecting its dedication to protecting passengers. It performs excellently across safety categories such as adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, and safety assist systems. With its range of safety features, you can trust this car to prioritize your safety on every journey.

Cost of Ownership – Striking a Balance Between Luxury and Affordability

With the backing of a five-year unlimited kilometer warranty, the BMW 5-Series provides peace of mind to its owners. Maintenance is required annually or every 20,000 kilometers. There is an option for a five-year service package priced at $2400 if paid upfront. Although the 520i holds the entry-level position in the 5-Series lineup, it doesn’t compromise on luxury or efficiency making it an appealing choice for those in a sedan.

Final Thoughts

In this era dominated by electric vehicles, the 2024 BMW 520i stands out as a car that goes beyond its entry-level status. It combines allure with efficiency, offering a visually stunning interior and refined driving experience, and coming with a comprehensive set of safety features. While acceleration may not be suitable for those seeking power output, it excels as an elegant and environmentally conscious choice.

BMW`s decision to exclusively offer a lineup of gasoline-powered 5-Series vehicles could indicate a changing landscape in the industry. As electric cars gain prominence, the 520i stands out as a frontrunner, in this era of advancements.

2024 BMW 520i Main Highlights

• 19-inch M alloy wheels
• Adaptive LED headlights
• Remote start
• Panoramic glass roof
• Power boot-lid
• BMW Iconic Glow illuminated grille
• M Sport package
• Comfort Access (keyless entry and start)
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with BMW Operating System 8.5
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Head-up display
• Gesture control
• Alcantara and Veganza leatherette upholstery
• Interior camera
• Ambient lighting
• Carbon-fibre interior trim
• Dual-zone climate control
• Heated front sports seats
• Wireless phone charger
• 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system
• Driving Assistant Professional
• Parking Assistant Professional
  • Semi-autonomous parking assist
  • Front and rear parking sensors
• Surround-view camera
• Travel & Comfort System
• ConnectedDrive

Enhancement Package (520i: $5400) adds:

• 21-inch alloy wheels
• Metallic paint
• Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system

Comfort Package (520i/i5 eDrive40: $5700; i5 M60 xDrive: $3200) adds:

• Heated steering wheel
• Roller sunblinds
• Ventilated front seats (520i and i5 eDrive40 only)
• Front comfort seats
• BMW CraftedClarity Glass application (520i and i5 eDrive40 only)
• Heated rear seats
• Four-zone climate control (520i and i5 eDrive40 only)

Source: carexpert.com.au

2024 BMW 520i Video Review

2024 BMW 520i Media Gallery