The 2021 BMW X6 trades some of the X5’s utility for a fashion moment, but doesn’t miss a performance beat.
Pros Distinct shape Better look Impressive performance Available twin-turbo V-8 power
Cons Cramped rear head room Expensive Not as practical as an X5 Big rear blind spots
The 2021 X6 lineup adds some new standard features, drops some old ones, and gets revised option packages. The most notable new addition is Android Auto, which was previously not available and now comes standard. However, BMW eliminates previous options such as the acoustic glass, glass interior controls, rear-entertainment system, and night vision with pedestrian detection. The six-cylinder X6 now features a 48-volt hybrid system, and the V-8-powered version adds standard remote start and ventilated front seats.
Pros Smooth and speedy powertrains, athletic handling and refined ride quality, f ulfills luxury mission.
Cons Unintuitive infotainment interface, X5 has a bigger cargo area, V-8 upgrade requires a significant investment.
Minor changes to feature availability and option packages for 2021.
Pros Strong acceleration from both engines Comfortable and quiet ride High-quality interior
Cons Sloping roofline cuts down on cargo space Rear visibility is less than ideal Limited rear headroom
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.
