BMW has launched the new 520d powered by a third-generation com­mon-rail diesel engine. Improved for higher horsepower and torque, along with acceleration and 13-per cent better fuel economy to cater to custom­ers looking for a premium passenger car with fuel economy in a time when fuel prices are rocketing through the roof.

The new 520d comes with a 1,995cc 4-cylinder 16-valve turbocharged common-rail diesel engine capable of producing 177 horsepower at 4,000rpm (up from 163 horsepower) and 350Nm of torque from 1,750-3,000rpm mated to an electrically-controlled 6-speed Steptronic transmission offering quick, seamless shifting and less pow­er loss. Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes just 8.4 seconds and the car is capable of reaching a top speed of 226km/h. Average fuel consumption is only 16.4km/liter, bettering the previous model’s 14.5km/liter. With a full tank of fuel, the new 520d is capable of travelling as far as 1,150 kilometers.

Mr. Michael Kordys, president of BMW Group Thailand said, “BMW is aware of customers requirements for a car with excellent performance, but at the same time one with good fuel economy. BMW is confident that the new 520d will be as successful as the previous model. The new 520d is now powered by a third-generation common-rail diesel engine and BMW is the first company to bring in this type of engine to Thailand. This engine banks on an intelligent elec­tronic control unit offering precise fuel injection through the latest-generation Piezo injectors with 1,800 bars of pressure. This enables even finer fuel particles which are able to mix with air very well. The fuel system will also spray several pilot injections for a more continuous and com­plete combustion as well as improved engine perform­ance. In addition, this helps for a quieter combustion and lower carbon dioxide emission, making it more environ­mentally-friendly.”

The new electronic transmission is easy to use and looks great, while the latest version of the cruise control system works with the brakes in maintaining the desired speed during travelling downhill. The new 520d also comes with a Professional Logic 7 audio system while the ceiling is up­holstered with the black BMW Individual Headliner An­thracite for cars with brown and black leather interiors.

The 520d also features a Lights Package with courtesy lights from beneath the sideview mirrors and lower door seam illuminating the floor for easy and safe entry and exit. There are also automatic switching bi-xenon head­lights (both high and low beams) fog lights and white night lights at the side of the car. Comfort access unlocks the doors automatically and allows the driver to start the engine by pressing the start button without having a driver take out a key from his/her pocket. The PDC Park Dis­tance Control features both audio and visual display via the monitor screen while other features include automatic rain sensor, lightweight alloy wheels with 225/50R17 Run-Flat tires that can run for 250 kilometers (at speeds not over 80km/h) if punctured, as well as sports body kit.

The long wheelbase of the 520d results in a spacious cabin while the interior also features a sporty styling. Inside the car, there is a 3-spoke sport leather multi-func­tion steering wheel with Servotronic speed-sensitive power assist, onboard compu­ter displaying various information, i-Drive controller, ergonomic Dakota leather seats (electrically-powered with memory for the driver), high-quality wood trim, automatic dimming rearview and sideview mirrors, green-tinted glass, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, etc.

The new 520d also comes with a 5-year (100,000km) BMW Service Inclusive pro­gram with after-sales servicing being carried out by authorized BMW service cent­ers and genuine BMW parts for peace of mind in terms of maintenance.

The new 520d retails at 3,699,000 Baht – for more information please contact au­thorized BMW showrooms countrywide.