Ballistic-resistant SUV offers protection against 'violent attacks, kidnapping or organised crime. BMW has revealed the new X5 Protection VR6, an armoured version of its popular luxury SUV. According to the Bavarian marque, the X5 Protection VR6 "offers private individuals and persons at risk customised protection against violent attacks, kidnapping or organised crime".Power in the X5 Protection VR6 comes from a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine borrowed from the xDrive50i variant. Maximum power is rated at 390kW between 5500 and 6000rpm, while a peak torque figure of 750Nm is on tap between 1800rpm and 4600rpm.
The X5 Protection VR6, named in reference to its certified protection rating, is almost indistinguishable from the standard X5, but is clad all over in high-strength steel armour plating, which overlaps at each panel and trim gap to maximise coverage. Underneath, a thick aluminium splinter shield protects the powertrain and floor from explosive devices such as hand grenades, while the standard X5’s windows have been replaced with 33mm thick, polycarbonate-reinforced glass. The glazing features what BMW calls ‘post-blast protective technology’, which offers protection against secondary attacks in the wake of an explosion. Only the driver’s window is electric as standard, although an electric passenger window is an option.
We know what you want out of your luxury crossover. You want comfort. You want performance. You want protection against anti-infantry hand grenades. Well, BMW has the ride for you! Although it looks like the standard model, the new X5 Protection VR6's armor-plated bodywork protects against attacks by handguns and firearms, including AK-47s. The armored passenger compartment withstands blasts of up to 15 kilograms of TNT from a distance of 13 feet, and its Post Blast Protective Technology protects against secondary attacks; even following a blast, all windows remain firmly in position.The vehicle is fitted with high-strength steel panels in the doors, side frames, roof, and firewall. Overlapping armor plating within the door gaps and bodywork joints prevent penetration by bullets or fragments. Oh, and your suitcases will be safe as well, thanks to aluminum pieces guarding the underbody and luggage compartment.
The 2020 BMW X7 is the upper-crust seven-seat SUV that finally answers the question: What if I want to spend more for a BMW?
Pros Beautiful interior Great standard tech Comfortable seats everywhere Opulent top trims No bad engine choices
Cons Very expensive Digital dash isn’t our favorite Look-at-me grille Many spend-up options
The 2020 BMW X7's #5 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Large SUVs category. Currently the BMW X7 has a score of 7.8 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 11 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros High-end cabin materials Many standard tech and safety features Muscular engine options Comfortable ride
Cons Steering feels too light
The most significant update to the 2020 X7 lineup is the new M50i model, which brings a more powerful version of BMW's twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 and other unique content. Otherwise the model-year changes are pretty minor. The top two trims feature more standard features such as soft-close doors, gesture controls, remote engine start, and more. In addition to some revised option packages, the X7 can now be equipped with five-zone climate control. With the introduction of the M50i, the regular 50i no longer offers the M Sport package.
Pros Smooth and robust powertrains, marvelously quiet cabin, seats are serenely comfy.
Cons Leans too much in corners, some rivals are roomier inside, painfully slow power rear seats.
