[FrequentFlyer]

There is a lot of hype on LCI and so with a late June build on order, I checked that my dealer was happy for me to change to a first week of July build which is the first week of LCI production.

I thought that I would take the latest and greatest but when I sat down at the dealership and ran through the detailed spec/figures on their configurator I ended up sticking with the Pre-LCI.

Spec is a loaded 520d SE with about £11k of options excluding individual paint/leather. So we started with Luxury Line in the new world and built a like for like example. However BMW have messed about with two areas:

1. Sport Auto is no longer available as an option for any 520d LCI, being reserved for the 525d/530d.

2. The option prices have been changed. For example the HUD is now a £1k option on top of Pro Nav and this does not include the extra £115 for Black Panel. Compare this to a£580 premium to Pro Nav today - including the Black Panel Free of Charge. Pro HiFi is now badged Harmon Kardon and £150 more. Sun Prot Glass up by £50. Folding Mirrors up by £50 etc etc.

So I wondered if the new touch iDrive controller could be a consolation. However like most people I am right handed and the idea of writing well-formed letters in an iDrive controller with my left hand was just laughable. Your average European or US driver will find their layout a lot more natural unless they are left handed.

Coupled with other option pricing and allowing for standard Xenon etc we came to the astounding conclusion that the pre-LCI (which now includes Business Nav FOC) was over £1600 cheaper for the same spec but with the benefit of Sport Auto.

The external changes are barely noticeable and so it came down to price. For that kind of difference I don't need a facelift.