The BMW 5 Series Sedan (F10) 520d Steptronic, produced from 2010 to 2013, represented an entry point into the sixth generation (F10) of BMW’s iconic mid-size executive car. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and comfortable option, the 520d utilized a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This variant was particularly popular in Europe, where diesel engines held a significant market share, offering a balance between performance and economy for business travelers and family drivers alike. In the US market, the 5 Series traditionally favored gasoline engines, making the 520d a relatively uncommon sight.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series Sedan (F10) |
| Type (Engine) | 520d (184 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 137 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 233.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2750 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 | 16.5:1 |
| 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 | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1625 kg (3582.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2235 kg (4927.33 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 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 | 4899 mm (192.87 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2968 mm (116.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 141 mm (5.55 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.95 m (39.21 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 97W |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 520d Steptronic is the N47D20C engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of BMW’s highly successful N47 family, known for its efficiency and refinement. It features common-rail direct injection, a turbocharger with variable geometry, and an intercooler to maximize power and torque. The N47D20C produces 184 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm. This broad torque curve is a hallmark of diesel engines, providing strong pulling power from low engine speeds. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 5 standards.
The engine is mated to an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. This transmission, developed by ZF, offers smooth and quick gear changes, contributing to both fuel efficiency and driving comfort. The Steptronic transmission also features manual shift modes, allowing the driver to take more control when desired. The drivetrain is rear-wheel drive, a traditional configuration for BMW sedans.
Driving Characteristics
The 520d Steptronic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as higher-powered 5 Series variants, the 520d provides ample performance for everyday driving and long-distance cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 7.7 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 139.81 mph. The eight-speed transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in responsive acceleration. The torque-rich diesel engine makes overtaking easy, even with a full load of passengers and luggage. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. However, some drivers may find the steering a bit light and lacking in feel compared to more performance-oriented BMW models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 520d Steptronic typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features. These included automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, a multi-function steering wheel, and a BMW Professional radio system. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a navigation system, a premium sound system, and various driver assistance features such as parking sensors and adaptive cruise control. Trim levels varied depending on the market, but generally, the 520d was positioned as a well-equipped but not overly luxurious variant.
Chassis & Braking
The F10 5 Series features a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The 520d typically came equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, along with electronic stability control (ESC). The car’s chassis is designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 520d Steptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and refined engine. However, some reviewers noted that it lacked the outright performance of higher-powered 5 Series models. Compared to the 525d or 530d, the 520d offered lower running costs but less exhilarating acceleration. Against gasoline-powered variants like the 523i or 528i, the 520d provided superior fuel economy but a different driving character, with more emphasis on torque than peak horsepower.
Legacy
The N47 engine family, including the N47D20C found in the 520d, has proven to be generally reliable, although early versions were known for timing chain issues. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing chain inspections, is crucial for long-term reliability. Today, used examples of the F10 520d Steptronic represent a relatively affordable entry point into BMW ownership. They continue to be popular with drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and comfort, and well-maintained examples can provide many years of reliable service.
