BMW’s historically-popular model variant of the 5 Series, the 520i, is now on sale here

SINGAPORE — The traditional bread-and-butter of BMW’s 5-Series range, the 520i, is finally in Singapore. It may not be able to go 1000km on a tank of fuel like the 520d can, but then diesel has never really been the fuel of choice among consumers here. At the very least, it makes for a compelling alternative entry point to the 5-Series fold.

The 520i is available in Singapore in Luxury trim only, and as of publishing time, costs $264,800 with Certificate of Entitlement; just $4,000 more than the 520d.

For that, you get a different version of the 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine that does duty in the 530i. Like all the other “20i” variants in BMW’s model range, the 520i produces 184hp and 290Nm of torque. This is good for a 0-100km/h time of 7.8 seconds and a 235km/h top speed, and average fuel consumption is 6.2L/100km.

As far as tech goes, the 520i retains many of the impressive gadgets of its pricier counterparts. You get adaptive LED headlights, Parking Assistant that will automatically park the car for you, Apple CarPlay, as well as the same 10.25-inch touchscreen for the iDrive system, which can be controlled via voice commands, hand gestures or old-fashioned finger prodding.

Also available as options are a heads up display, a Remote Parking system using the key fob, Integral Active Steer (basically rear wheel steering) and automated assistance functions like adaptive cruise control, cross-traffic warning and lane keep assist.

The 520i is the most important 5-Series variant for local distributor Performance Motors, as it traditionally accounts for the majority of sales for the model; 75 percent for the past three years, in fact. Given the uncertainties that diesel cars face when the new Vehicle Emissions Scheme (VES) kicks in next year though, the petrol-powered 520i will likely supercede the 520d in time to come as the least expensive 5-Series available.

That said, Performance Motors has said that the 520d will still be available for the foreseeable future, so if you like the idea of having to fill up only once a month, it might be best not to dilly-dally. Otherwise if you were simply waiting for something familiar, well, the new normal is finally here.

As for the rest of the 5er range, it still offers strong models to suit many needs:

Fancy yourself a bit of a speed demon? The flagship 540i M Sport delivers an explosive kick, but without ruffling your feathers.

Want to be frugal with your fuel (and your funds)? The 520d Luxury is your cheapest ticket into 5-series ownership, but with equipment levels that won’t leave you feeling short-changed.

Can’t make up your mind and want the best of both worlds? The 530i slots perfectly in between, and can be had in either Luxury or M Sport trims.