Mercedes-Benz E 220d vs BMW 520i — full comparison

Mercedes-Benz E 220d

Sedan · Diesel · FWD

vs

BMW 520i

Sedan · Gasoline · FWD

Mercedes-Benz E 220d

Car A

Mercedes-Benz E 220d

The Mercedes-Benz E 220d blends efficient diesel running (4.6 l/100 km) with five-seat practicality and a 540-liter trunk, suiting growing families and road trips. Performance is balanced rather than flashy, and front-wheel drive prioritizes everyday ease over winter prowess.

5 seatsSedanDiesel5-star safety4.6 L/100km194 hp

BMW 520i

Car B

BMW 520i

The BMW 520i is an efficient five-seat saloon that suits road trips and growing families. Its balanced performance and 530 L boot make it good value in its segment.

5 seatsSedanGasoline5-star safety

Why compared cross branddifferent powertrainsame body typesame seatssimilar price

Usage fit

Family 65 / 63

City 39 / 37

Budget / value 58 / 54

Road trip 63 / 64

Performance 34 / 33

Cargo 30 / 29

Practical 50 / 46

Premium 57 / 57

Winter 30 / 30

Scores out of 100. Blue = Mercedes-Benz E 220d · Orange = BMW 520i

Specs side-by-side

Spec Mercedes-Benz E 220d BMW 520i

Values are representative — confirm for your market and trim.

Pros & cons

Mercedes-Benz E 220d

Efficient for its class at 4.6 l/100 km, ideal for long commutes and trips
Roomy 540 L trunk and five seats suit growing families
Balanced performance: 194 hp, 400 Nm, 0–100 km/h in 7.5 s
Strong safety and reliability signals for peace of mind
Front-wheel drive and weak winter-driving signal may not satisfy harsh-climate needs
Less suited to cargo-heavy use despite good trunk capacity
Diesel-only configuration won’t fit buyers wanting petrol or hybrid power
Not tuned for thrills; 7.5 s 0–100 km/h may leave enthusiasts wanting more

BMW 520i

Efficient for its class at 6 L/100 km, ideal for long-distance driving
530 L trunk handles family luggage for holidays and weekends
Adequate pace for highways (184 hp, 0–100 km/h in 7.9 s, 235 km/h top speed)
At about 55,000, it represents good value in its segment
Saloon body limits loading flexibility for bulky items despite the volume
Front-wheel drive may not suit buyers seeking AWD confidence for harsh winters
Moderate acceleration; not for those prioritizing punchy performance
Price may exceed tighter family-sedan budgets

Verdict

Pick Mercedes-Benz E 220d if…

Best fuel economy

Mercedes-Benz E 220d uses 4.6 L/100km vs 6.0 — a meaningful saving if you cover high mileage.

Pick BMW 520i if…

Performance & capability

BMW 520i is the choice if you want more power, speed, or all-weather capability.

Related comparisons