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.
For 2021 Wireless Apple CarPlay is now standard.
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 options
Cons Less rear legroom and cargo capacity than many competitors Options and packages boost the price quickly Four-cylinder engine is much thirstier than those in rivals
For 2021, the only notable update to the Macan Turbo is the addition of Apple CarPlay, which was previously absent. Otherwise, everything carries over unchanged except for the base price, which rises by $1000.
Pros Thrilling twin-turbo V-6 powertrain, clairvoyant handling characteristics, unrivaled personalization options.
Cons Some rivals are quicker and more powerful, stingy back-seat space, can easily cost six figures.
The 2021 Porsche Macan is unranked in Luxury Compact SUVs due to missing safety data. Currently, the Porsche Macan's overall score is not available, though its Critics' Rating, Performance score, and Interior score are based on our evaluation of 42 pieces of research and data.
Pros Exceptional handling and ride Muscular engine lineup Quality cabin materials Intuitive touch screen
Cons High base price for the class Snug rear seats and undersized cargo area
