BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo 520d expands diesel GT range
BMW will soon add the 520d to its 5-Series Gran Turismo line, pairing the GT’s distinctive body with a 2.0-litre diesel engine and rear-wheel drive.
BMW is preparing to launch the 520d variant of its 5-Series Gran Turismo, bringing a four-cylinder diesel to the GT’s line-up for the first time. The 520d Gran Turismo will be offered exclusively with rear-wheel drive and is set to reach the market soon, according to the manufacturer’s announcement in May 2012.
The 520d Gran Turismo’s 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine develops 181 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. BMW claims the car will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds, with a maximum speed of 213 km/h. This places the 520d at the entry point of the Gran Turismo range, below the six-cylinder diesel and petrol options already available.
Efficiency is a focus for the new model. BMW lists combined fuel consumption at 5.3 litres per 100 km, with urban and extra-urban figures of 5.9 and 5.0 litres per 100 km respectively. Official CO2 emissions stand at 139 g/km. These figures make the 520d Gran Turismo the most economical version in the GT line-up at launch.
Position in the 5-Series GT range
The 5-Series Gran Turismo, introduced as a concept at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, combines the length of a 7-Series with a hatchback-style rear and a flexible interior. The addition of the 520d provides a lower-cost, more efficient entry point to the GT range, which until now has been dominated by larger six-cylinder and V8 engines.
At nearly five metres long and with a wheelbase of 3,070mm, the Gran Turismo is positioned as a more practical and spacious alternative to the standard 5-Series saloon or estate. The introduction of the 520d is aimed at buyers seeking the GT’s space and comfort with lower running costs and emissions.
Market context and rivals
The 520d Gran Turismo’s arrival reflects BMW’s broader strategy of offering lower-emission diesel options across its larger models. It addresses demand for executive cars with reduced tax liability and better fuel economy, particularly in markets where running costs are a high priority. While the Gran Turismo’s closest rivals remain limited, the 520d will compete with diesel versions of large hatchbacks and estates from Audi and Mercedes-Benz, as well as BMW’s own 5-Series Touring.
- 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder diesel engine
- Rear-wheel drive only
- 181hp and 280 lb-ft torque
- 0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds
- Combined fuel consumption: 5.3 l/100km
- CO2 emissions: 139g/km
Pricing and exact market launch dates had not been disclosed at the time of the announcement. BMW is expected to position the 520d Gran Turismo below the six-cylinder diesel variants, making it the entry-level option for the GT body style.
For more on the 5-Series Gran Turismo’s design and features, see BMW launches 5 Series Gran Turismo with new body style and flexible interior.
