15.9.14, Munich BMW's executive saloon and estate get a more efficient, refined new diesel engine. HAVING UNDERGONE A mid-life facelift last year, BMW's executive model - here tested in strong-selling Touring form - now receives a new four-cylinder diesel engine to enhance its standing against the Audi A6 2.0 TDI, Jaguar XF 2.2D and Mercedes-Benz E220 Bluetec. The 520d's new engine is the same 2.0-litre unit first seen in the facelifted X3 xDrive20d. Here, it delivers 187bhp at 4000rpm and 295lb ft between 1750rpm and 2500rpm, increases of 6bhp and 15lb ft over the engine that it replaces. Key among its developments is a new fuel injection system, a new variable-geometry turbocharger that is claimed to bring a 50 per cent reduction in frictional losses and a more efficient electrically operated oil pump. As before, it comes mated to a standard six-speed manual gearbox or, as here, an optional eight-speed automatic gearbox.
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