# BMW 5 Series — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the BMW 5 Series on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/bmw-5-series

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2020
- **Ideal trim**: 520d SE
- **Target mileage**: 30,000
–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £23,233

## Why this model

The BMW 5 Series is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a comfortable, refined, and engaging executive saloon. It handles beautifully, feels incredibly solid on the motorway, and the interior quality is top-notch. It's a proper premium car that still offers good practicality for families or long commutes.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market data (February 2026), a well-maintained 2020 BMW 520d SE with 30,000-50,000 miles should be around £23,233. Prices can vary a bit depending on exact mileage, condition, and optional extras, but this is a solid target. M Sport models will typically fetch a few thousand more.

## Which trim to buy

The 520d SE trim is the sweet spot for value. You get all the essential luxury features, a comfortable ride, and the excellent 2.0-litre diesel engine which offers a great balance of performance and fuel economy. It's refined enough for long journeys but still punchy when you need it. The M Sport looks sportier but often comes with a stiffer ride and a higher price tag without a significant boost in everyday usability for most buyers.

## What to check before you buy

- EGR cooler issues (check recall status)
- iDrive software glitches
- Suspension bush wear (especially on M Sport)
- AdBlue system faults on diesels
- Minor electrical gremlins

## Running costs

Running a 520d involves a few costs. Fuel-wise, you're looking at around £0.17 per mile for diesel, assuming 40 mpg and current fuel prices. Road tax (VED) for a 2020 model will be £580 per year for the first 6 years (due to its original list price likely being over £40k), dropping to £190 per year afterwards. Insurance can be moderate to high, typically in the £700-£1,200 range depending on your personal circumstances. Servicing at a BMW main dealer can be pricey, but independent BMW specialists offer more affordable options, usually £250-£500 per service.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Diesel
- **Horsepower**: 190 hp
- **Mpg**: 37-42 mpg
- **Reliability Score**: Above Average
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 520d SE | £38,000 | £23,233 | Leather upholstery; Heated front seats; Front and rear parking sensors |
| 520d M Sport | £42,000 | £26,000 | Sport seats; M Sport suspension; M Sport styling kit |
| 530e M Sport | £48,000 | £27,500 | Plug-in hybrid powertrain; Electric-only driving range (approx. 30 miles); Sport seats |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £23,233 | 100% |
| 2027 | £20,445 | 88% |
| 2028 | £17,992 | 77% |
| 2029 | £15,833 | 68% |
| 2030 | £13,933 | 60% |

Buying a 3-4 year old BMW 5 Series like this 2020 model means you've let the first owner take the biggest hit on depreciation. From this point, the value loss slows down considerably, making it a much smarter financial move. You get a premium car at a significantly reduced price, and it will hold its value reasonably well for the next few years.

Total value lost since new: 40%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Mercedes-Benz E-Class](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/mercedes-e-class.md)
- [Audi A6](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/audi-a6.md)
- [Volvo S90](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/volvo-s90.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.