The BMW 5 Series Touring (G31) 520d xDrive Steptronic, produced from 2017 to October 2019, represents BMW’s entry point into the premium, mid-size executive wagon segment. Positioned as a diesel-powered variant within the G31 generation – the seventh iteration of the 5 Series Touring – it offered a blend of practicality, efficiency, and BMW’s signature driving dynamics. This model catered to buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient vehicle capable of long-distance travel and everyday utility. It was a key offering in the European market, where wagons maintain significant popularity, and also saw limited sales in other regions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series Touring (G31) |
| Type (Engine) | 520d (190 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | October, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5-5.9 l/100 km (42.8 – 39.9 US mpg, 51.4 – 47.9 UK mpg, 18.2 – 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5-4.9 l/100 km (52.3 – 48 US mpg, 62.8 – 57.6 UK mpg, 22.2 – 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9-5.3 l/100 km (48 – 44.4 US mpg, 57.6 – 53.3 UK mpg, 20.4 – 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129-139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 222 km/h (137.94 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 230.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 95.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B47D20B |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt | 7.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1735 kg (3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2465 kg (5434.39 lbs.) |
| Max load | 730 kg (1609.37 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 570 l (20.13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1700 l (60.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4942 mm (194.57 in.) |
| Width | 1868 mm (73.54 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2975 mm (117.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.22 m (40.09 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17; 245/45 R18; 275/40 R18; 245/40 R19; 275/35 R19; 245/35 R20; 275/30 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 9J x 18; 8J x 19; 9J x 19; 8J x 20; 9J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 520d xDrive Steptronic utilizes BMW’s B47D20B 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s modular engine family, known for its efficiency and refinement. The B47 features a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head, and a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system operating at pressures up to 2,000 bar. A single twin-scroll turbocharger with variable geometry turbine (VGT) technology provides boost, contributing to the engine’s 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque available from 1750-2500 rpm. The engine also incorporates BMW’s BluePower technology, including a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet stringent Euro 6 emissions standards. The engine is longitudinally mounted, powering all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The transmission is an 8-speed Steptronic automatic, known for its smooth shifts and efficiency. This transmission features a torque converter and allows for both automatic and manual gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The 520d xDrive Steptronic offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the 190 hp engine and 400 Nm of torque provide adequate performance for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 7.5 seconds. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth and timely gear changes. Compared to higher-output 5 Series variants like the 530d or 540i, the 520d feels less urgent in its acceleration. However, the xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, with higher gears designed for relaxed highway cruising. The steering is precise and well-weighted, typical of BMW’s steering feel. The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and handling, absorbing bumps effectively while maintaining body control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 520d xDrive Steptronic typically came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, navigation, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and a suite of safety features such as lane departure warning, collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included features like a head-up display, premium sound system, panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and various interior trim options. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered packages that added features like upgraded leather, wood trim, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Chassis & Braking
The G31 5 Series Touring features a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilizes a double-wishbone setup, while the rear employs an independent multi-link suspension. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and precise handling. The 520d xDrive Steptronic is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction and stability. The vehicle’s weight distribution is carefully balanced to optimize handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 520d xDrive Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Critics noted that while the engine wasn’t particularly powerful, it provided adequate performance for most drivers. Compared to the 530d, the 520d offered a more affordable entry point into the 5 Series Touring range, but at the expense of performance. The 520d’s fuel economy was a key selling point, consistently achieving around 48-53 mpg on the combined cycle. Reliability has been generally good, although some owners have reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and turbocharger.
Legacy
The BMW 5 Series Touring (G31) 520d xDrive Steptronic represents a well-rounded and practical executive wagon. The B47 engine, while having some known issues with the timing chain on earlier iterations, has proven to be relatively durable when properly maintained. On the used car market, these models offer a good value proposition, providing a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle at a reasonable price. The combination of all-wheel drive, automatic transmission, and diesel efficiency makes it a popular choice for drivers seeking a versatile and economical vehicle for long-distance travel and everyday use. Its continued presence in the used car market is a testament to its overall quality and appeal.
