The BMW 5 Series Touring (F11 LCI), specifically the 528i variant with the Steptronic automatic transmission, represents a compelling blend of practicality and performance within the mid-size luxury wagon segment. Produced from 2013 to 2017, this iteration of the F11 chassis – a facelift of the original F11 introduced in 2010 – aimed to refine the already successful formula of the 5 Series Touring. Positioned as a mid-range offering, the 528i Steptronic provided a step up in power and refinement compared to the base 520i models, while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance 535i and 550i variants. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a versatile vehicle capable of both comfortable long-distance cruising and accommodating substantial cargo.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series Touring (F11 LCI, Facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 528i (245 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.4-9.0 l/100 km (28 – 26.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2-5.6 l/100 km (45.2 – 42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4-6.8 l/100 km (36.8 – 34.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 149-159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 247 km/h (153.48 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 141.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 245 Hp @ 5000-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1250-4800 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1250-4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N20B20A |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.1 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1735 kg (3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2375 kg (5235.98 lbs.) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1670 l (58.98 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 | 4907 mm (193.19 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1462 mm (57.56 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2968 mm (116.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 141 mm (5.55 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.0 m (39.37 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 | 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; 245/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 528i Touring is the BMW N20B20A 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a member of BMW’s highly regarded modular engine family, utilizing direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. The N20 engine is known for its responsiveness and efficiency. The direct injection system allows for precise fuel delivery, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The twin-scroll turbocharger minimizes turbo lag, providing a more immediate power delivery. The engine produces 245 horsepower at 5,000-6,500 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque between 1,250 and 4,800 rpm. This power is channeled through an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, which offers smooth and quick shifts. The Steptronic transmission allows for both automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector.
Driving Characteristics
The 528i Steptronic delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the 535i or 550i, the 2.0-liter turbo engine provides ample power for everyday driving and confident highway passing. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering seamless gear changes and contributing to the car’s overall smoothness. Compared to the 6-speed manual transmission available on some 528i models, the Steptronic offers greater convenience, particularly in urban traffic. However, some enthusiasts may find the manual transmission more engaging. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provides a balanced feel, although it can be less confident in slippery conditions compared to the xDrive all-wheel-drive system available on other 5 Series models. The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and handling, absorbing bumps effectively while maintaining reasonable body control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 528i Touring typically came well-equipped as standard. Common features included leatherette upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a BMW iDrive infotainment system with a central display screen, automatic climate control, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a premium sound system, navigation, a head-up display, and various driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. Trim levels were relatively straightforward, with options primarily revolving around adding individual packages or standalone options.
Chassis & Braking
The F11 5 Series Touring utilizes a double wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 528i typically featured ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system is augmented by ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, and brake assist. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 528i Touring was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and efficient engine. Compared to the 535i, the 528i offered a more affordable entry point into the 5 Series Touring range, albeit with less outright performance. The 528i also offered better fuel economy than the larger-engined models. Reliability was generally good, although some owners have reported issues with the N20 engine’s timing chain and water pump. Fuel economy figures averaged around 36.8 – 34.6 US mpg combined, making it a relatively efficient option in its class.
Legacy
The BMW 5 Series Touring (F11 LCI) 528i Steptronic remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its blend of practicality, comfort, and performance continues to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile luxury wagon. The N20 engine, while having some known issues, is generally considered reliable when properly maintained. Regular oil changes and timely attention to potential cooling system leaks are crucial for long-term durability. The F11 5 Series Touring represents a high point in BMW’s wagon offerings, combining elegant styling with a refined driving experience.
