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 2021 Cadillac XT5 comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed shiftable automatic.Wireless compatibility for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Pros Above-average cargo capacity Generous legroom and headroom Relatively affordable compared to other midsize SUVs
Cons Small windows and mirrors make it hard to see out of the back Not a lot of cabin storage for small items Lets in too much exterior noise
The XT5 receives a number of new standard features for 2021, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, Amazon Alexa integration, and an upgraded digital display in the gauge cluster. Elsewhere, the XT5's exterior cameras get upgraded to provide better picture quality, a more robust wireless charging pad and USB-C charging outlets have been added, and a feature that uses Near Field Communication to pair smartphones in just one step joins the list.
Pros Placid cabin during cruising, handsome exterior styling, plenty of cargo space.
Cons Sleepy base four-cylinder engine, ride gets rough on pockmarked roads, unpolished interior design.
The 2021 Cadillac XT5's #9 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Cadillac XT5 has a score of 7.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 35 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent predicted reliability rating Good gas mileage Plenty of legroom
Cons Cabin materials a step below many rivals' Less athletic than competitors So-so ride quality
