[Tengocity]

Due to a change in work circumstances which will increase my mileage considerably I'm looking for a 530d or 535d tourer, and save me from piling miles in my M4 and from the 25mpg it gives me.

I'm reasonably familiar with BMW engines, equipment, specs and kit overall but not so much with specifics on the 5 series.

Any pointers helpful, such as what's found in what packs, what's considered essential, differences from the LCI facelift or other important revisions.

Also, anything to look out for in used cars that can be problematic, for example, are there many issues with the self levelling rear suspension?

Also if anyone has a well specced 530d/535d MSport tourer, available for sale, then please get in touch. Budget up to £20k potentially.

[Huskyman]

I’ve owned an LCI 535d M-sport touring since 2017 and I really rate the car. The engine is smooth and powerful but mpg isn’t amazing at around 38-40mpg but I’ve fitted non run flat tyres to it, this drops the mpg but helps prevent cracked alloys and improves the ride, and seeking out a car with adaptive drive is worth it. Mine doesn’t have it and the ride can be a little harsh. The rear air springs can let go but I’ve never had any issues with mine. The professional hi-fi is a bit meh bu the Harmon Kardon is good.
Beware the panoramic roof as this needs a bit of care to keep it in working order and water tight, I personally avoided this on mine.
Do the following checks:
Has the EGR recall been done? Very important
Check the carpets for damp as the path through the bulkhead for LHD has a bung in it and this can leak if leaves and shite build up in this area
Make sure the engine boosts smoothly from low down and it should pick up nicely from 3k onwards
Automatic should shift smoothly and check the sport mode and paddles work
Check the doors for corrosion around the window weather strip, mine had to go in for warranty for this problem, and make sure the pedestrian active safety system is working ok as this can be £££ to fix.
These are great cars. Good luck with your search, and £20k should bag you a good one

Essential spec for me is the rear view camera, front and rear parking sensors, power fold mirrors, auto dimming mirrors, HK audio with enhanced Bluetooth, professional Nav and M sport transmission.
Spec I wished my car had is surround view, memory seats, adaptive drive and active rear steer.

[shiner]

Everything Huskyman has said.

I urge you to go for the 535d. I have also had the 530d and whilst that is still a great car, the 535d is *much* more powerful and its low end grunt is awesome. It is such a superb car, I have seen nothing in its class worth selling it for.

Be aware that the BMW extended warranty is much more expensive - about double - on cars that are 60k miles and over. You may want to keep that in mind looking at used examples. Get a monthly warranty.

[Tengocity]

Thanks chaps. Ended up going with a different plan however. Decided to replace my company 330e with the new one. Lease rates are very good on them just now, and BIK rates will be 12% next year and for next 3 years, so that's not bad.
And then to sort the estate need we just bought a used C250d AMG line estate for my wife. She preferred the smaller size over a 5 series, and it's enough power for her, and an extra 10mpg over 25000 miles is worthwhile.

And I get to keep the M4 for weekend use