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 Maserati Levante ranked #11 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Maserati Levante has a score of 7.5 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 18 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Potent engine lineup Sharp handling
Cons Small cargo space for class Some uninspiring interior materials Poor fuel economy
The 2020 Maserati Levante comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.Minor revisions to feature availability.
PROS Design differentiates it from the sea of look-alike crossovers Turbocharged V6 and V8 engines provide quick acceleration Suspension enhances ride comfort and handling around turns Highly customizable interior
CONS Some downmarket buttons and switches Short on cargo space
It's the new entry-level Maserati Levante and it's almost $15,000 less than the next rung up the ladder. It's still got a twin-turbo V6 and it still has loads of kit. So, what's not to like?
Pros It's still got a big presence It goes well and sounds even better Ride comfort is excellent with air suspension Sporty handling with solid composure Very comfortable cockpit and all the latest features including Apple CarPlay General refinement ZF eight-speed gearbox is a big plus
Cons Not as sharp as the Porsche Cayenne Generic rear styling Still 10 grand more than the Porsche
