PROS Stonking acceleration from the twin-turbo V-8, smoothest start-stop system around, impressive ride and handling balance.
CONS Lazy transmission tuning, properly expensive, heavier and less involving than a similarly capable sports sedan or wagon.
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. powertrain warranty. AMG GLE 53 makes 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft.Standard 48-volt EQ Boost system adds 21 hp and 184 lb-ft.MBUX infotainment system.
PROS Modern, luxurious interior appointments Turbocharged inline-six engine is smooth and powerful MBUX infotainment is one of the best in the business
CONS Choppy ride on less than perfect surfaces Body style heavily restricts rear visibility
Pros Ear-shattering V8 engine EQ Boost system improves efficiency Muscular styling Luxurious, spacious cabin Much-improved infotainment system Race Mode delivers precise steering
Cons Can't fully mask its size It can't fully defy physics Ride will be too firm for some Requires expensive optional extras Infotainment system can be intimidating at first
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.
