BMW 5-Series Touring (2010 - 2017) 520d (190bhp) SE 5d Step Auto Owner Review

Bought to satisfy my BMW itch (well scratched) as well as to meet the demands of family life. The car is comfortable and cruises effortlessly with good fuel economy given its size. I have read reviews saying one should have the variable dampers - mine doesn`t and it is still a great ride on 17 inch run-flats. The auto-box is a dream and I cannot envisage ever returning to manual. It can be switched into sport mode (when the wife isn`t in the car) and there is a sport auto option on the gear lever. It goes surprisingly quickly for a big car and its fun too. There is room for 2 adults, 2 teenagers and a dog(cage fitted in the boot) and it is very comfortable. The notion that BMW are useless in the snow is a misconception - I simply fit winter tyres and the Bavarian machine has no issues what so ever; those that don`t will fishtail around and get nowhere. Not the car`s fault. Equip it correctly and it does the job it is supposed to do! This winter the Beast from the East did not stop me getting to work/around. My current fuel economy is 40mpg but it will return 50plus when driven sensibly on a long journey. My only complaint is the automatic wipers are not great at deciding when they are needed and I often have to override them during rain. I previously has a 318d touring and the extra power of the 520d is noticeable. Given that this car is significantly larger I would avoid the 518d as it is likely to feel under-powered. The other surprise I have had is that the BMW franchise servicing costs are not as expensive as I expected and £35 quid a month takes care of all its scheduled servicing requirements. All in all its a belter of a car and I would definitely recommend it.