BMW 5 Series 520i Essential (2025) vs Hyundai Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV Calligraphy (2026)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of BMW 5 Series 520i Essential (2025) vs Hyundai Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV Calligraphy (2026) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | BMW 5 Series 520i Essential (2025) BMW ₱3,990,000 | Hyundai Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV Calligraphy (2026) Hyundai ₱3,980,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2025 | 2026 |
| Warranty | 5-years/200,000km | 5-years/200,000km |
| Availability | Current | Current |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Inline-4 | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 1998cc | 2497cc |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 16-Valve | DOHC 16-Valve |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Turbocharged |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Hybrid |
| Max Power | 208 PS | 334 PS |
| Max Torque | 330 Nm | 422 Nm |
| Transmission | Automatic 8-Speed | Automatic 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | RWD | AWD |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | Executive Sedan | Large Crossover SUV |
| Segment | Sedan | Crossover |
| Construction | Unibody | Unibody |
| Exterior Colors | Grey Metallic, Alpine White, Carbon Black Metalic, White Metallic, Sapphire Metallic, Phytonic Blue Metallic, Dark Graphite Metallic, Tanzanite Blue Metallic, Oxide Grey Metallic, Brooklyn Grey Metallic | Graphite Grey, Abyss Black, Creamy White, Moonlight Blue Sierra Burgundy Pearl |
| Doors | 4 | 5 |
| Seating Capacity | 2+3 | 2+2+3 |
| Length (mm) | 5060 | 5065 |
| Width (mm) | 1900 | 1980 |
| Height (mm) | 1515 | 1805 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2995 | 2970 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1685 | 2275 |
| Fuel Tank (L) | 60 | 72 |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | Double Wishbone, Coil Spring | MacPherson Strut w/Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-link with Coil Spring | Multi-link with Coil Spring |
| Front Wheels | 18 | 21 |
| Rear Wheels | 18 | 21 |
| Front Tires | 245/45R18 | 265/45R21 |
| Rear Tires | 245/45R18 | 265/45R21 |
| Front Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Steering Type | EPS | EPS |
| Steering Column | Tilt & Telescope | Tilt & Telescope |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Differential Lock | No | No |
| Safety | ||
| Anti-lock Braking (ABS) | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | No | No |
| Parking Sensors | No | Yes |
| Stability Control | No | Yes |
| Traction Control | No | Yes |
| Vehicle Dynamic Control | Yes | — |
| Forward Collision Mitigation | No | No |
| Blind Spot Warning | Yes | No |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | No | No |
| Auto Stop/Start | No | No |
| Driver Airbag | No | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | No | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | No | Yes |
| Front Curtain Airbags | No | Yes |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | No | Yes |
| Rear Side Airbags | No | Yes |
| Engine Immobilizer | Yes | Yes |
| Security Alarm | Yes | Yes |
| Door Locking | Central Locking | Central Locking |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | Automatic Climate Control 4 Zone | Automatic Climate Control Dual Zone |
| Rear A/C Vents | No | No |
| Seat Material | Leather | Leather |
| Parking Brake | EPB | EPB |
| Key Type | Keyless Entry | Keyless Entry |
| Push-Button Start | No | Yes |
| Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Info Display | Yes | Yes |
| Paddle Shifters | No | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | No | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | No | No |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Power Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Trunk Release | Yes | No |
| Eco Mode | No | No |
| Antenna | yes | yes |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Speakers | 11 | 14 |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Android Auto | No | No |
| USB | Yes | No |
| AUX Input | No | No |
| AM/FM Radio | Yes | Yes |
| CD Player | No | No |
| DVD Player | No | No |
| MP3 Playback | No | No |
| iPod Support | Yes | No |
| SD Card Slot | No | No |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | LED | LED |
| Fog Lights | No | No |
| Daytime Running Lights | Yes | Yes |
BMW 5 Series 520i Essential (2025) vs Hyundai Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV Calligraphy (2026): which should you buy?
The BMW 5 Series 520i Essential and Hyundai Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV Calligraphy are vastly different vehicles, each excelling in its own domain. The BMW is a rear-wheel-drive executive sedan with a 2.0L turbo inline-4 producing 208 PS and 330 Nm, paired with an 8-speed automatic. It offers a luxurious, sporty driving experience and a wide range of metallic exterior colors. The Hyundai, priced nearly identically at ₱3,980,000 (vs. ₱3,990,000), is a large crossover SUV with a 2.5L turbo hybrid inline-4 delivering 334 PS and 422 Nm, mated to a 6-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. It seats 7 in a 2+2+3 configuration, making it far more practical for families. The BMW is better for those who prioritize prestige, driving dynamics, and a premium badge. The Hyundai is the smarter choice for buyers needing space, fuel efficiency (hybrid), higher power output, and all-weather capability. If you commute daily with family or need versatility, the Palisade wins. If you want a status symbol with engaging driving, choose the 5 Series.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper between the BMW 5 Series and Hyundai Palisade?
The Hyundai Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV Calligraphy is slightly cheaper at ₱3,980,000 compared to the BMW 5 Series 520i Essential at ₱3,990,000, a difference of ₱10,000.
Which vehicle is more powerful?
The Hyundai Palisade is significantly more powerful, producing 334 PS and 422 Nm, while the BMW 5 Series outputs 208 PS and 330 Nm.
Which is better for daily commuting and family use?
The Hyundai Palisade is better for daily commuting and family use due to its 7-seat capacity, larger interior, hybrid fuel efficiency, and all-wheel drive for better traction.
What are the key differences in drivetrain and transmission?
The BMW 5 Series is rear-wheel drive with an 8-speed automatic, while the Hyundai Palisade is all-wheel drive with a 6-speed automatic. The Palisade's AWD offers better handling in wet or rough roads.