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.
Jaguar has given the F-Pace a few visual tweaks for 2021, including a revised grille, a reworked hood, and updated exterior lighting elements. The cabin receives a major upgrade in the form of Jaguar-Land Rover's new Pivi and PiviPro infotainment systems. Their graphics are projected on a large 11.4-inch curved-glass screen mounted just above the climate controls on the F-Pace's dashboard. Heated seats and a 14-speaker stereo are now standard across the lineup.
PROS Athletic chassis, powerful optional inline-six, plentiful cargo space.
CONS Stiff ride, buggy infotainment system, stingy on interior storage cubbies.
The 2021 Jaguar F-PACE comes with a revised front and rear styling, New 11.4-inch infotainment screen with updated software, New V6 engine available with 335 or 395 hp, Thoroughly redesigned interior.
PROS Powerful V6 engine delivers quick acceleration More cargo space than most rivals Handles and brakes like a sport sedan
CONS Larger wheels hurt ride comfort More road and wind noise in the cabin than competitors
PROS One of the best large SUVs to drive Great new infotainment system Keenly priced yet well equipped
CONS There are roomier SUV options Road noise on larger wheels Some fiddly switchgear
