BMW 520 reviews

Bought mine pre-registered (for just 6 weeks) with just 4 miles on the clock in Dec '16. Last of the previous model so big reduction on list price and loaded with kit (and almost five years later, holding its value really well). Would normally change after 3-4 years but held on to it due to all the Covid chaos (and the fact that nearly-new prices are sky-high). Don't do big mileage (4,000-5,000 miles a year) but had no problems with it, other than a recall for an exhaust gas recirculation valve which wasn't a big issue. BMW main dealer servicing costs aren't cheap but service intervals aren't too frequent so no real complaints. Still love getting into the car after four-and-a-half years and consider it an excellent buy. Very comfortable and enjoyable to drive - would definitely recommend.

The first top end car I've owned for years I was impressed with the reviews used cars of this type seemed to be getting. Firstly I was bamboozled by the push button auto handbrake and now I've managed to do a sort of mental checklist for getting it to work consistently. I wouldn't want a pull handbrake in this car would clutter up the centre console. The fuel economy figures - well I wouldn't take a bet on the published figures being even occasionally attainable but even on the urban journeys I'm getting over 40mpg. The turbo lag is quite noticeable but I'm not complaining it will still give you that warm push against the back of your seat with the revs not climbing much above 3000rpm -enough to get you into and out of trouble in most driving situations. The speed limiter excellent for long stretches of 50mph motorway driving and two clicks of the button removes the limit. I'm not a cruise control user - though it functions well on this car. It is astonishingly comfortable but try and take a few minutes with the stationary car to adjust the seat for yourself. Changing whilst driving not easy with the seat buttons positioned where they are, once they are right the comfort over a long drive is excellent. They are longer than you expect and the average Tesco parking slot can barely cope with the length. Even shunted right up against the car in front the car still sticks its rear end into the traffic lane tempting a pat on the bum from passing car park users. The parking sensors well up to the job of taking the guesswork [or binoculars] you'll otherwise need to prevent the odd scuff. Multi storey car parking is very challenging and the high kerbs can [and have] put scuff marks on the plastic sill - I now avoid multi storey parking and expensive bod repair bills! Overall I'm really pleased with my small leap of faith here. The car is rewarding to drive, seemingly reliable for everyday motoring and a possible keeper for me who is a change junkie when it comes to cars. Happy driving and may you still cling to your wallet if anything does go wrong!

The 5 series is the benchmark for all other upmarket saloons available. It has the room, comfort, performance and standard kit levels that appeal.

Most reliable car I have ever had and since changing to automatic I will never go back to manual.

As expected with a BMW, a quality driving experience.

A very comfortable and reliable car

Have only had the car for 10 days, replacing 2015 Mercedes E220D, but already I have noticed how much better it is over bumpy roads, better performance and similar equipment level. Very pleased with my choice so far.

I bought this car as a small engined cheap to run car with good carrying capacity It was a cancelled order and I did not choose the specification I was surprised at how smooth the engine was how fast it was, especially when driven by my son, and how amazingly economical it was On a long run I regularly get 65mpg. There is plenty of room for my grown up children and always room for an extra piece of luggage in the boot The car has a long overhang and I rely on the sensors to judge distances I find it easier to reverse into parking spaces as the mirrors make it easier The car has been utterly reliable

One word sums this car up. Excellent.

Utterly reliable. Excellent to drive on all types, lengths of journeys. A relaxing environment to be in.

I have a BMW E28 518i which I purchased just over a year ago, I use this car for most of my journeys to and from my office and at weekends. I have been gradually adding period modifications to the car over the time that I have owned it. It was a standard model when I purchased it, I have added a on board computer, leather interior, newer imperial alloy wheels and tyres, Bluetooth compatible sound system, modern light bulbs and wipers. This car whilst looking like a period car is able to operate with most of todays creature comforts and modifications whilst retaining it's look from my early adult life. I have had a couple of classic BMW's now and still prefer to drive these as opposed to my company car (Audi A4 Avant) or my wife's car (Range Rover Evoque).

We have had since new. No problems. Very spacious and comfortable. Easy to drive. Need to factor in regular maintenance but BMW charges for service items is high so we no longer use them. Have to regularly change oil and brake shoes/pads regardless of mileage so can be annoying when alarm goes off.

I have had this car for over 9 years and its comfortable, reliable, great handling but now with higher fuel prices, I am finding the fuel consumption a bit more expensive, hence my desire to change it for its diesel equivalent as this model is now such a classic and sort after by BMW enthusiast. Great all round car, providing you maintain it properly and by a trained BMW mechanic. Happy Motoring Chaps

The car is next to useless in any snow, with it being rear wheel drive. But otherwise I can't fault it. Its very comfortable, has a great driving position and has all mod cons. The boots easily fits a full sized pushchair and all the other luggage necessary for a 2 week trip to France. Its totally reliable and has been over to France 3 times and Northern Irelend 4 times, all without issue. I've changed the fun flats to regular tyres as run flats are a rip off at around £200 a corner and they can't be repaired if you puncture one. I will definitely be having another 520D, overall its an excellent car and I prefer it to my last 3 series.

Old but good looking, comfortable and reliable. Very easy to drive on fast roads and for long periods of driving - very good stability and road holding. Steering rather heavy on turning on short trips at slower speeds but this is made up for by the steadiness of the steering at speed. Occasional problem with rear light/stop light bulbs failing. Map pockets on back of front seats have come unstuck with wear. Otherwise a great old car, but probably requiring a change in the New Year.

First brand new car we have ever bought. Love it. Stylish, comfortable and just enough gadgets (not too many). Have to account for the cost of using BMW authorised dealers when new due to warranty, they are expensive for the smallest items. Boot is huge. Beware run flat tyres, expensive to replace and not sure they are needed or better.

Extremely pleased with all aspects of my bmw - wouldnt consider any other car

No big news here, 520d is great to drive. Bought the car used. Turbo blew few months later, car about 3 and a half years old. BMW weren't brilliant in dealing to get it fixed. Eventually went about 50/50.

I have driven this car for 4 years and have had no reliability problems and find the fuel efficiency very good. One irritating issue is that the rear seat does not fold down, which limits the possibility of carrying long items.

I have only had this car 3 months (it was a demonstrator) and am very pleased with it. The only niggle is that you have to concentrate hard when driving on the motorway as it is inclined to wander off the desired path. I haven't yet managed to find out what the problem is, but will pursue this when I have time.