In its seven years lifecycle, more than 325,000 copies were sold by the predecessor of the new BMW 5 Series Touring and there is no question that the new generation should top this value again. In order to achieve this goal, the engineers and product managers have spared neither costs nor effort.

Compared to the predecessor, the 2017 BMW 5 Series Touring is up to 100 kilograms lighter, but the torsional stiffness was increased again by a few percentage points. The wheelbase, as well as the front and rear axles, grew in order to allow the chassis developers to be more agile and more comfortable. A lot of fine work in the wind tunnel also helped to reduce the drag coefficient to 0.27.

At least as important as these key data, many G31 5 Series Touring customers will appreciate the spacious and premium interior, which, in our opinion, is a significant step above the previous model. Behind the tailgate are now 570 to 1,700 liters luggage compartment volume, thanks to a slightly wider loading area. The maximum payload could also be increased, compared to its predecessor, by up to 120 to a maximum of 730 kilograms. The standard 40:20:40 foldable and foldable back seat also offers space for up to three child seats, which underlines the family-friendliness of the new 5 Series Touring.

This particular model featured here today is the entry-level BMW 520d Touring, powered by the B47 engine. The 2.0 liter, four-cylinder banger makes 190 horsepower and max. torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm. Acceleration from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) comes in 8.0 seconds and the top speed is rated at 230 km/h (143 mph).

The fuel consumption is superb and one of the best in class, a combined 4.5 liter per 100 km.

Unfortunately for those of us in the United States, the BMW 5 Series Touring will not be available, so we’ll get to enjoy it only as a rental car while in Europe.