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Subject Topic: Bmw 520d as towcar Post Reply Post New Topic
PersonJam2015
08/4/2016 at 7:48pm
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I am currently towing with a 2007 bow 520d, at over 95% weight ratio (maybe worse). Van is 1600kg twin axle. When I got van last year I had intended to tow the van home with this car and then change to something more suitable, x3, q5 or freelancer. 5 series just doesn't seem like a towcar for some reason.

But during the drive home up and down many a steep hill, it towed so well I almost forgot the van was on the back. We don't travel more than an hour from home and don't have to go on much motorway, have done a few trips, car has been great and feels very steady, but I still feel I need to change it. I can't find a big 4x4 I like and have ended up looking at new shape 520d much higher Kerb weight and outfit March shows 86%.

What do people think of this as a towcar?


PersonJuanHuNose
08/4/2016 at 8:38pm
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If you`re happy with a 5-series why change?

I had a 2010 520D which was great, now have a 2013 model which as you have pointed out is heavier and has a more flexible engine. The later ones are even better.

If you do change, have a good look at the Touring model as they have self-levelling rear suspension which is excellent.

I`ve been towing 1375 kgs which hasn`t taxed the car at all, new van arrives this week weighs 1530kgs but don`t see this as a problem.



PersonJam2015
08/4/2016 at 9:21pm
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I think I am only changing because of the 85% "rule".... Might try and wait till next year before changing, glad to here the 2013 tows well.


PersonSwijn
09/4/2016 at 11:01am
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Quote: Originally posted by Jam2015 on 08/4/2016
I am currently towing with a 2007 bow 520d, at over 95% weight ratio (maybe worse). Van is 1600kg twin axle. When I got van last year I had intended to tow the van home with this car and then change to something more suitable, x3, q5 or freelancer. 5 series just doesn't seem like a towcar for some reason.

But during the drive home up and down many a steep hill, it towed so well I almost forgot the van was on the back. We don't travel more than an hour from home and don't have to go on much motorway, have done a few trips, car has been great and feels very steady, but I still feel I need to change it. I can't find a big 4x4 I like and have ended up looking at new shape 520d much higher Kerb weight and outfit March shows 86%.

What do people think of this as a towcar?


When we are out towing our van - we have exactly the SAME conversation as you... 'why don't we get one of those 4x4 jeeps to tow our van?' as stereotypically these are seen as the best tow cars. But then an hour later once we've unhitched we realise that the towing itself is for just a short journey - we'd much rather have a 'drivers' car to enjoy driving solo - with the capability of towing our van.The 85% is subject of much debate.

My brother-in-law has a 2010 BMW 520d Estate/touring - which he rates very highly for towing. If he was buying again he said he'd opt though for the 530d..



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