Our Fleet Test Drive: BMW 520d - 4th Report

Date: 23 November 2010   |   Author:

I've not been a fan of electronic handbrakes since they first started replacing the traditional ratchet arrangement, but the 5-series' electric brake is one of this fine car's few weak points. Most systems automatically disengage when the driver pulls away, but the BMW one doesn't. More than once I've forgotten, and been trying to drive off while the handbrake's still on.

Given that it's so keen to stay on, it could be seen as ironic that it also takes too long to engage, with that brief moment of doubt that it's actually taken, before the car stops moving.

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