Like an undying pop band, the BMW 5 Series has always been popular in the executive class, and the new 520d Modern Line gives the Bavarians even more of an edge. Just how good is it really?
Story: Jim Gorde
Photography: Sanjay Raikar
The flash and the flair are as much a part of the deal, if not more than the performance and creature comforts. When outward appearance makes or breaks everything from a first impression to a job interview, little can we complain when a large executive saloon gets a tiny diesel engine. Although this 5 Series would argue that indeed it is not a literal comparison. It may have a little heart, but it’s mighty and takes no prisoners. And that, ladies and gentlemen, we can live with ─ quite happily, I might add.
The 520d Modern Line is the mid-level variant in the extended 520d line-up which now includes the Prestige, Modern Line and Luxury Line, but still packs loads of equipment – things you need and things you didn’t even know were there till you found the magic button. Visually, the Modern Line is the only one with a matte chrome front kidney-grille and highlights front and rear. The interior is from their Individual line and is laced with Satinated Aluminium. What all of that means in the real world is you get a beige interior with matching leather and generous dashes of wood trim and aluminium ─ all of which lend a spacious, posh and airy feeling to the cabin. Even the key uses beige plastic and matte aluminium.
