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 2019 Porsche Macan comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 7-speed automated manual.More powerful turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine for S models.New interior design incorporating a 10.9-inch touchscreen.Redesigned front and rear fascias, including headlights and taillights.More natural voice recognition software.
Pros Quick acceleration regardless of engine choice Most athletic and engaging SUV in the class Surprisingly comfortable and composed ride Easy to customize thanks to a long list of individual options
Cons Less rear-seat legroom and cargo capacity than many competitors Options and packages can add up quickly
The Macan is updated for 2019 and features refreshed exterior styling that includes updated front and rear bumpers, new taillamps that span the width of the liftgate, and new wheel designs. The base 2019 Porsche Macan receives a 248-hp turbocharged four-cylinder and the high-performance S model comes with a 348-hp turbo V-6; the GTS and Turbo models have yet to be revealed for 2019, but will almost certainly pack more punch than the S when they eventually return. The suspension is retuned this year as well, although the Macan already was the one of the best handling crossovers of 2018. The Macan also sees a few interior changes, the most notable one being the new, larger 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system and standard 4G LTE onboard Wi-Fi feature.
Pros As quick as some Boxsters, curvy exterior, exceptional poise on the road.
Cons Low-rent interior, cramped rear seat, small cargo hold.
The 2019 Porsche Macan ranked #1 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Porsche Macan has a score of 9.2 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 36 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Dynamic handling Premium cabin Intuitive infotainment system Class-leading predicted reliability rating
Cons Small cargo hold Tight rear seats
The first big revamp of Porsche's Macan range has arrived. Is it 'almost new-generation' as its maker claims or closer to the facelift it appears to be? Let's find out in the newish V6-powered S version.
Pros Smarter Cayenne-like look Excellent high-def’ infotainment Superb all-round drivability Excellent driver-centric dynamics
Cons The new single-turbo V6 is uninspiring in character Old Porsche cabin design Average three-year warranty: AEB costs extra
