520d EfficientDynamics

The current BMW 520d Saloon is already very frugal, achieving an average fuel consumption of 57.6 mpg (4.9 l/100km) while emitting 129 g/km of CO2.

Those figures come courtesy of various fuel-saving technologies including a stop-start system, brake energy regeneration and electric power steering. But the competition has been catching up, and the latest Audi A6 Saloon 2.0 TDI for example exactly matches the 520d on economy and emissions.

So, to get ahead of its rivals once more, BMW has announced the 520d EfficientDynamics Edition which will be available alongside the regular 520d when sales start this autumn.

BMW 520d EfficientDynamics Edition (2012) Front Side 1

Outputs from its 1,995 cc engine are unchanged at 181 bhp (135 kW / 184 PS) and 380 Nm (280 lb/ft) of torque, however fuel economy increases to 62.8 mpg (4.5 l/100km) and CO2 levels fall to 119 g/km.

Those improvements are thanks to the fitment of a longer final drive ratio and special ‘Streamline’ alloy wheels and, as might be expected given the technical changes, performance has also been effected.

Acceleration is slightly worse, with the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint now taking 8.2 instead of 8.1 seconds. Similarly, the important 50-75 mph (80-120 km/h) increment takes 7.5 seconds in the EfficientDynamics Edition, compared to 6.9 seconds for a standard 520d. Top speed actually increases though, rising to 144 mph (231 km/h) from 141 mph (226 km/h).

BMW 520d EfficientDynamics Edition (2012) Front Side 2

Company car drivers in the UK are bound to be excited by the coming of the 520d EfficientDynamics Edition, because its rate for benefit in kind tax purposes will be just 13%. Their fleet managers might be a bit less impressed though, as BMW has decided to price the new arrival at £30,345, which is £915 more than a regular 520d SE.

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2011 Fleet News Awards
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