Enough with the details, let’s get on to how the TwinPower Turbo four-pot sets things in motion. The 1,995-cc motor makes 184 PS and 380 Nm of torque, about the segment average in terms of sheer numbers. However, put down the spec sheet, get into the car, push the Start button, and the raspy exhaust note will surprise you. The 520d also goes like few other executive saloons. Yes, it’s aimed at the business class, but unlike its rivals, it does bring loads of oomph with its eager, sporty character. There is rarely a dull moment; in fact, the only ones I remember were all those when I was stationary.
Unlike the base 520d Prestige, the Modern Line has paddle shifters behind the steering wheel and puts all eight speeds into your hands. The manual mode is quite fun when you have some space between the vehicles in front of you and BMW have ensured that this 5 is no less fun than any of the rest, even with a beige business suit on. The steering feels weighted just right and the many adjustments to the seat and wheel help find that perfect driving position. However, quite a bit of the effect comes with the eye-catching user interface. No, not the iDrive; although that is part of the package.
The drive modes: yes, there are three of them, including one especially designed to optimise the ‘ECO PRO system, which, by the way, steps up the fuel-saving with coasting powers too. This one shows a speedo, marked up to 120 km/h, set in a soothing blue and also displays an indicator with ‘charge’ and ‘power’ both on the dial. The former jumps when you touch the brake, while the latter is related to the accelerator. There is a ‘Comfort’ mode and a ‘Sport’ mode too, but no ‘Sport+’, unlike the bigger 525d and 530d.
