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 2018 Ford Expedition is finally the full-size family hauler from Ford we've been waiting for.A long-awaited redo for the spacious family hauler finally arrives this year, and the 2018 Ford Expedition gets more than a "mane and tail" makeover. The new SUV will be available in XLT, Limited, and Platinum trims in rear- or four-wheel-drive configurations. A long wheelbase Expedition will be offered and is called Expedition MAX, which is a new name for the States. Pricing hasn't yet been announced.
Pros Boxy, upright stance Advanced safety tech Strong V-6 and 10-speed powertrain Helpful terrain management system
Cons We thought we were past the rotary shift knob Uncertain about fuel economy Expedition MAX?
The 2018 Ford Expedition ranked #1 in Large SUVs. Currently the Ford Expedition has a score of 9.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 8 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Powerful engine Upscale cabin with plenty of features Three rows of spacious seats Lots of cargo space
Cons More expensive than competitors
More powerful V6 engine and new 10-speed automatic transmission.The 2018 Expedition is fully redesigned.The first year of the fourth-generation Expedition.Updated interior with new features.
PROS Turbo V6 engine, now with more power, pulls strong even when laden Easy folding and sliding of rear seats increase interior flexibility Adults will actually be comfortable in the third-row seat Tows more than similarly sized crossover SUVs
CONS Fuel economy still below what a typical three-row crossover achieves Big, bulky and tricky to navigate and park in tight quarters
