BMW has embraced the engine ‘downsizing’ trend, with its acclaimed 2.0-litre TwinPower turbo engine now powering its range-opening 5 Series sedan, the 520i.
While power outputs of 135kW and 270Nm seem modest, the clever eight-speed transmission and a wide torque band afforded by the turbocharger help the 520i punch above its weight.
With a starting price of under $80,000, the car substantially undercuts other petrol 5 Series variants – the better-specified 528i uses a higher-tuned version of the same engine – and such is its level of competency that it should prove hard to look past for prospective buyers.

E60 523i
Released: June 2007
Ended: May 2010
Family Tree: 5 SeriesEMPHASISING the recent shift to smaller capacity, turbocharged engines for greater efficiency as well as performance, the entry-level petrol version of the previous 5 Series, the 523i, was powered by a 2.5-litre straight-six with 140kW and 230Nm of torque.
The base variant, priced from $84,900, joined the angular E60 5 Series range in Australia as part of a mid-life facelift in the middle of 2007.
Six months after the arrival of the 523i came an even cheaper 520d entry-level diesel variant, powered by a 125kW/340Nm oil-burning unit from the 1 Series, 3 Series and X3 SUV, and priced from $79,900.
Get the full story: Things are looking good for BMW's famous '5' in latest generation guise
Facebook Twitter Instagram