Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a seriously impressive machine: the 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport. If you're in the market for a premium sedan that balances luxury, performance, and all-weather capability, then this Beemer might just be your ticket. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its killer looks to what's under the hood, and how it feels to actually drive this thing. Get ready to get up close and personal with a car that really does tick a lot of boxes for a lot of people.

Performance and Powertrain: The Heart of the Beast

Let's kick things off with what really makes the BMW 520d xDrive M Sport 2017 tick – its performance. Underneath that sleek bonnet lies a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine. Now, don't let the 'diesel' part fool you; BMW has a knack for making these engines sing. This unit churns out a respectable 190 horsepower, which might not sound like a supercar number, but trust me, it's more than enough for this car. Where it really shines is in the torque department, with a healthy 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) available from pretty low revs. This means you get effortless acceleration, especially when you're cruising on the motorway or need to overtake quickly. You won't be left wanting.

Paired with this engine is BMW's renowned xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This is a game-changer, especially if you live in an area with unpredictable weather. xDrive intelligently distributes power between the front and rear wheels to maximize traction and stability. Whether you're tackling a wet roundabout or a snowy incline, you'll feel planted and confident. It’s this combination of a strong diesel engine and the grip of xDrive that makes the 520d a supremely capable all-rounder. The M Sport package isn't just about looks; it often includes suspension upgrades that enhance handling, making the car feel more agile and responsive through corners. So, while it’s a diesel, it definitely doesn't feel sluggish. In fact, the 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport offers a driving experience that is both refined and engaging, a hallmark of the BMW brand. You get that satisfying shove in the back when you put your foot down, but it's delivered in a smooth, controlled manner that adds to the overall premium feel of the car. It’s the kind of power delivery that makes long journeys less tiring and every day driving more enjoyable. The engine is also surprisingly quiet for a diesel, especially at cruising speeds, contributing to a serene cabin environment. This car truly masters the art of blending everyday usability with a sporty edge, making it a compelling option for anyone who appreciates driving dynamics without sacrificing practicality. The xDrive system works seamlessly in the background, ensuring you always have the optimal amount of power going to the wheels that have the most grip, which is a massive confidence booster, particularly in adverse conditions. It’s this intelligent engineering that sets BMW apart, and the 2017 520d xDrive M Sport is a prime example of that philosophy in action. You get the fuel efficiency benefits of a diesel engine, coupled with the all-weather security of all-wheel-drive and the dynamic prowess associated with the M Sport trim. It’s a win-win-win situation for the discerning driver.

Exterior Design: M Sport Magic

Now, let's talk about how this car looks. The 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport is part of the G30 generation of the 5 Series, and BMW really nailed the design here. It’s a sophisticated evolution of the classic 5 Series silhouette. The M Sport package adds a distinctive visual flair that sets it apart from the standard models. You get a more aggressive front bumper with larger air intakes, side skirts that give it a lower, more planted look, and a redesigned rear bumper, often with a subtle diffuser element. The M Sport also typically comes with unique alloy wheels, usually in a larger size (think 18 or 19 inches), which fill the wheel arches beautifully and add to the car's sporty stance. The kidney grilles at the front are prominent, as they always are on a BMW, and the headlights are sharp and modern, often featuring LED technology for that distinctive daytime running light signature. The overall profile is sleek and muscular, with sharp character lines that run along the side of the car, emphasizing its length and dynamism. It’s a car that looks good from every angle, exuding a sense of understated sportiness and premium quality. The paintwork on these cars is usually superb, and the build quality is evident in the tight shut lines and the solid feel of the doors. When you see a 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport parked, it commands attention without being ostentatious. It’s the kind of car that looks equally at home parked outside a business meeting as it does heading out for a weekend drive. The M Sport badging discreetly lets you know it’s something a bit special. The wheels are often a highlight, with intricate designs that really complete the sporty look. Even the door handles and mirrors are sculpted to blend seamlessly with the bodywork, showcasing BMW's attention to detail. The rear end typically features chrome exhaust tips (even on the diesel, which is a nice touch) and a small boot lid spoiler that further enhances the aerodynamic and sporty aesthetic. It’s a cohesive and attractive design that has aged very well, proving that good design is timeless. The M Sport exterior enhancements work harmoniously with the car's inherent elegance, creating a package that is both athletic and sophisticated. This isn't just a car; it's a statement piece, a blend of German engineering and design prowess that is instantly recognizable and highly desirable. The proportions are spot on, with a long bonnet, a cabin set relatively far back, and a short front overhang, all classic BMW proportions that signify a rear-wheel-drive biased platform (even with xDrive). This attention to visual balance is what makes the 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport such an enduringly handsome car, appealing to those who appreciate subtle performance cues integrated into a luxurious sedan form factor. The LED lighting signature at the front and rear adds a modern touch, ensuring it looks contemporary even years after its release.

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Driver's Cockpit

Step inside the 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport, and you're immediately greeted by that familiar BMW premium feel. The build quality is exceptional, with high-quality materials used throughout. You'll find soft-touch plastics, leather trim, and brushed aluminum or wood inlays, depending on the specific options chosen. The M Sport package typically includes sport seats, which offer excellent support and comfort, especially during spirited driving. They often have enhanced bolstering to keep you snug in your seat. The steering wheel is also usually an M Sport item – a thicker, more ergonomic design wrapped in perforated leather, making it a joy to hold. The dashboard is driver-focused, with all the controls logically laid out and within easy reach. The centerpiece is BMW's iDrive infotainment system, controlled via a rotary dial on the center console or, on later models like this one, often with touchscreen capability as well. It’s intuitive and packed with features, including navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, DAB radio, and various car settings. The 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport offers a fantastic digital experience, with a crisp display and responsive menus. You also get things like dual-zone climate control, electric seat adjustment, and ambient lighting to set the mood. For a 2017 car, the technology onboard is still very relevant and user-friendly. It strikes a great balance between offering modern conveniences and maintaining a focus on the driving experience. The M Sport interior touches extend to things like M Sport branded door sill plates and M Sport floor mats, adding those little extra details that enhance the premium feel. The cabin is spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a practical choice for families or for colleagues on business trips. The boot is also generously sized, providing plenty of space for luggage or shopping. The seats themselves are incredibly comfortable, even on long journeys, and the driving position is highly adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect spot. The iDrive system is a particular highlight, renowned for its ease of use and comprehensive functionality. You can easily control music, navigation, phone calls, and vehicle settings without getting distracted from the road. The integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto might not have been standard on all models in 2017, but the core system is robust and capable. The optional Harman Kardon sound system, if fitted, delivers an absolutely cracking audio experience, turning the cabin into your personal concert hall. The ambient lighting is a subtle but effective touch, with customizable colors that can really change the feel of the interior, especially at night. It’s these thoughtful details, combined with the high-quality materials and ergonomic design, that make the interior of the 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport such a pleasant place to be. It feels luxurious, technologically advanced, and, most importantly, tailored to the driver. The seats are supportive, the materials are premium, and the overall atmosphere is one of refined comfort and control, ensuring every journey, whether short or long, is an absolute pleasure.

Driving Dynamics: The BMW DNA

So, how does the 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport actually drive? This is where BMW's engineering prowess truly shines. Despite being a diesel and having the xDrive system, this car is surprisingly engaging to drive. The steering is precise and offers good feedback, allowing you to feel connected to the road. In Sport mode, the steering weight increases, and the throttle response sharpens up, making the car feel even more eager. The M Sport suspension (often a sportier, firmer setup) minimizes body roll in corners, allowing you to carry speed with confidence. It’s not rock-hard like some sports cars, but it’s definitely firmer than the standard suspension, offering a great balance between agility and comfort. The xDrive system works subtly in the background, ensuring that traction is always optimized. You can feel it working when you accelerate out of a corner, but it's a smooth, seamless transition of power. The 8-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox is another star. It shifts incredibly smoothly in normal driving, but when you demand more performance, it responds with lightning-fast downshifts. You can also take manual control using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel for a more engaging experience. The 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport offers a driving experience that is a brilliant blend of sporty handling and long-distance comfort. You can easily cover hundreds of miles without feeling fatigued, thanks to the comfortable seats, refined engine, and quiet cabin. Yet, when you decide to explore some twisty roads, the car transforms into a capable and dynamic machine. The combination of the chassis tuning, the xDrive system, and the M Sport enhancements creates a truly compelling package. It’s a car that inspires confidence and enjoyment behind the wheel. Even though it’s a diesel, the way it handles corners, its responsiveness, and the overall sense of control make it a genuine driver's car. The braking performance is also strong, providing ample stopping power when you need it, which is crucial for a car with this level of performance and capability. The adaptive M suspension, if optioned, further refines this balance, allowing you to select different driving modes that alter the suspension's firmness. This means you can have a comfortable ride on the commute and a sportier, more controlled ride on a winding country road, all at the touch of a button. The engine note, while muted, has a pleasingly refined growl when pushed, adding to the overall sensory experience of driving. It’s this holistic approach to design and engineering that makes the 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport such a standout vehicle. It doesn't compromise on comfort to achieve sportiness, nor does it sacrifice dynamic ability for practicality. It’s a masterful integration of all these elements, delivering a driving experience that is both exhilarating and reassuring. The xDrive system is particularly impressive in its ability to provide grip in all conditions, making the car feel secure and predictable, even when pushed to its limits. This 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport is a testament to BMW's philosophy of creating the ultimate driving machine, even in a diesel-powered, all-wheel-drive configuration. It truly offers the best of multiple worlds: efficiency, performance, luxury, and capability, all wrapped up in a stylish and desirable package. The engine's responsiveness, coupled with the slick gearbox, makes overtaking a breeze and merging into traffic effortless. You always feel in control, with power readily available whenever you need it.

Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Premium Saloon

In summary, the 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport is a seriously accomplished premium saloon. It delivers a potent blend of performance, thanks to its torquey diesel engine and grippy xDrive system, with the sporty aesthetics and handling enhancements provided by the M Sport package. The interior is a luxurious and technologically advanced space, and the driving dynamics are everything you'd expect from a BMW – engaging, confident, and refined. Whether you're looking for a comfortable daily driver, a capable all-weather car, or something that's genuinely enjoyable to drive on a weekend blast, this car ticks all the boxes. It represents excellent value on the used market for a premium vehicle that offers so much. The 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport isn't just a car; it's a statement of sophisticated taste and a commitment to driving pleasure. It’s a car that manages to be both practical and exciting, efficient and powerful, luxurious and sporty. If you're considering a mid-size executive saloon, especially one that can handle whatever the weather throws at you, then you absolutely have to put the 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport on your shortlist. You won't be disappointed by its all-around excellence. It’s a true testament to BMW’s engineering prowess and their dedication to creating vehicles that drivers love. The combination of the efficient diesel engine, the intelligent all-wheel-drive, and the sporty M Sport trim makes it a highly desirable package that appeals to a wide range of drivers. It’s a car that excels in almost every area, from daily commuting to long road trips, offering a refined and engaging experience that few others in its class can match. The 2017 BMW 520d xDrive M Sport truly is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a premium saloon with a sporty edge and all-weather capability. It provides a superb driving experience, wrapped in a package of luxury and cutting-edge technology, making it a compelling choice in the used car market.