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 Jeep Grand Cherokee impresses with style and performance, but lags behind in safety and fuel economy.
Pros Loads of style after all these years Plenty of powertrain options Capable off-road Trailhawk Five adults fit comfortably Hilarious 707-hp Trackhawk
Cons A $100,000 Jeep? Lackluster efficiency Subpar safety scores Aging interior
If it was good enough for 2019, it's good enough now: the 2020 Grand Cherokee SRT is unchanged.In a world where nothing succeeds like excess (and with apologies to Mr. Wilde), the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT is just enough. Under its hood is a 475-hp V-8 that partners with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. With launch control, the SRT can rip from zero to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Aggressive bodywork, a sport-tuned suspension, and robust brakes help the SRT handle and brake well enough to make some sports cars jealous.
Pros Incredible acceleration, bold exterior design, more utility than SRT versions of the Dodge Charger or Challenger.
Cons Penchant for fuel, expensive, big-bro Trackhawk exists.
The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT comes with four wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic,Optional diesel engine is no longer available
Pros Plush interior with plentiful luxury and technology Enough off-road ability to conquer practically any trail Available V8 engines offer substantial power Impressive tow ratings for the class
Cons Firm ride quality may disappoint, even with air suspension Underwhelming acceleration with base V6 Modest quality of cabin materials can be hard to justify