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Diesel may have slipped down the UK order books and estates may be outnumbered by SUVs, yet the BMW 520d Touring still makes a compelling argument for both. After more than 900 miles on mixed roads, it becomes clear this is a car engineered for drivers who regularly cover big distances. With the diesel option no longer available to UK buyers, its absence feels more noticeable the longer the miles rack up.
Beneath the bonnet sits a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel with mild-hybrid assistance, producing close to 200hp. It is not tuned to chase outright pace, but it delivers strong mid-range torque and clean, effortless overtakes. The real party piece is its ability to stretch a tank on long motorway slogs, returning consumption figures that petrol and plug-in hybrid alternatives often struggle to match once the commute turns into steady-speed cruising.
On the move, the 520d Touring behaves like a proper BMW. The steering is direct and accurately judged, helping the driver place the nose neatly on a B-road without the car feeling bulky. Body control is impressive for a sizeable estate weighing over 1,800kg, yet the ride remains composed over broken surfaces. It also cruises with real polish, keeping wind and road noise in check and making long motorway stints feel relaxed rather than tiring.
Inside, the cabin leans into modern theatre without losing its premium edge. The panoramic roof and ambient lighting lift the atmosphere, while the Interaction Bar adds a distinctive visual flourish. The sports seats provide supportive long-haul comfort, rear passengers get generous space, and wide-opening doors make child-seat fitting less of a wrestling match. The boot offers 570 litres with a broad, practical opening, suiting family life, even if a few rivals can squeeze out slightly more room.
As a package, the 520d Touring highlights why diesel still suits heavy-mileage drivers. Plug-in hybrids may suit certain tax scenarios and petrol versions cover most needs, but for frequent motorway use the diesel estate remains a sharp tool: torque-rich, refined and genuinely rewarding to drive. If the UK ever welcomes this option back, it would give long-distance drivers a very convincing reason to look beyond SUVs.
