The BMW 5 Series (E60 LCI) 520d Steptronic, produced from 2007 to 2010, represented a key entry point into the mid-size luxury sedan segment for BMW. This variant, part of the E60 LCI (Life Cycle Impulse – or facelift) generation, offered a blend of efficiency, comfort, and BMW’s signature driving dynamics. Positioned as the base diesel model with an automatic transmission, it catered to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and relaxed cruising over outright performance. The E60 LCI brought revised styling, updated technology, and improved engine efficiency compared to the pre-facelift E60 models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series (E60 LCI, facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 520d (177 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 226 km/h (140.43 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.6 kg/Hp, 116.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 230.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 88.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750-3000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N47D20C |
| 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 | 17:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt, 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt, 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal, 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4841 mm (190.59 in.) |
| Width | 1846 mm (72.68 in.) |
| Height | 1468 mm (57.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2888 mm (113.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Rear track | 1581 mm (62.24 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 142 mm (5.59 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.27 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 225/55 R16 V |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 LM |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 520d Steptronic was powered by the N47D20C, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a significant step forward for BMW, incorporating common-rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger, and four valves per cylinder. The common-rail system, operating at extremely high pressures, allowed for precise fuel metering and optimized combustion. The turbocharger, with its variable geometry vanes, provided a broad torque curve and minimized turbo lag. The N47 engine family was known for its efficiency and relatively quiet operation for a diesel. The ‘C’ suffix denotes specific emissions control features. The six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission was a conventional torque-converter automatic, offering smooth shifts and a focus on comfort rather than outright speed. It featured adaptive shift programs that adjusted to the driver’s style and road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 520d Steptronic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque available from 1750-3000 rpm provided ample power for everyday driving and overtaking. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to respond to throttle inputs compared to the available six-speed manual. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 8 seconds, making it competitive with other diesel-powered sedans in its class. The focus was on fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising, making it an ideal choice for long-distance journeys. Compared to the more powerful 525d or 530d models, the 520d felt noticeably less responsive, particularly at higher speeds. However, it offered a better balance of performance and economy than the higher-output variants.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 520d Steptronic typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, power windows, power mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Upholstery was usually cloth, although leather options were available. Common optional extras included a sunroof, navigation system, upgraded audio, parking sensors, and heated seats. The LCI facelift brought subtle interior revisions, including updated trim materials and improved infotainment options. Trim levels varied by market, but generally, the 520d was positioned as the entry-level model, with higher trims offering more luxurious appointments and additional features.
Chassis & Braking
The E60 5 Series featured a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension utilized a McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link design. This configuration provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The 520d typically came equipped with ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering was a hydraulic rack-and-pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 520d Steptronic was well-received in Europe, where diesel engines were – and still are – highly popular due to their fuel efficiency and low running costs. Critics praised its comfortable ride, refined engine, and impressive fuel economy. Compared to the 525d and 530d models, the 520d offered a more affordable entry point into the 5 Series range, but at the expense of performance. Its fuel economy was notably better than the higher-output variants, making it an attractive option for drivers covering long distances. Reliability was generally good, although the N47 engine was later subject to recalls related to timing chain issues.
Legacy
The BMW E60 520d Steptronic remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for those seeking a comfortable and economical luxury sedan. While the N47 engine’s timing chain issues are a known concern, regular maintenance and preventative checks can mitigate the risk. The E60 generation, as a whole, is considered a well-engineered and durable platform. The 520d’s blend of efficiency, comfort, and BMW’s driving dynamics continues to appeal to buyers looking for a practical and refined mid-size sedan. Its relatively lower price point compared to higher-spec models makes it an accessible entry point into BMW ownership.
