BMW’s ultimate executive saloon gets an emissions improvement, taking the 520d down to a 109g/km figure with an eight-speed auto that matches the smaller 3-series’s best.
Excellent
Combined with the silky smooth automatic, the emissions output is impressive, and rivals such as the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-class are one and two benefit-in-kind bands behind the 520d’s 17% as a result.
Good
Despite a higher P11D than the A6, the BMW is cheaper to run per mile at 66.8p, compared with 67.6p and monthly BIK payments for a 40% taxpayer are £192, compared with the A6’s £195. Driving dynamics also keep the 5-series in its traditional position at the top of the class.
Average
Boot space is in the middle of the pack at 520 litres, but it’s only 10 litres out on the A6, while the E-class is less practical at 490 litres.
Poor
The 5-series is difficult to fault, and is a nailed-on ten-out-of-ten car for business users. However, prices increase significantly when adding on optional extras.
Verdict
Best-in-class running costs justify the BMW’s position as BusinessCar’s 2015 Executive Car of the Year.