BMW launch the new X5 Protection VR6, the latest armored SUV that may look like any normal X5 but is anything but. The car manufacturer has equipped the body of the X5 with armored steel and bulletproof safety glass. Key elements made from high-strength steel include the doors, side frame, roof, and bulkhead while armoring also extends across the underbody. The SUV also comes standard with a self-sealing fuel tank with a special casing to ensure it cannot be pierced by a bullet.
A number of other upgrades have been made
to the X5. These include the fitment of an intercom system, flashing LED lights
that have been incorporated into the grille, flashing rear lights, and
roof-mounted light beacons. There is also a new roof antenna and a receiver for
a digital two-way radio. Unlike many other armored vehicles on the market, the
BMW X5 Protection VR6 looks pretty much identical to a standard X5. It comes
standard with gloss black wing mirror caps, black BMW Individual roof rails and
can be optioned in a number of standard or BMW Individual paint finishes.
The cabin of the armored X5 is just as
well-equipped as a regular model, although it is sold exclusively as a
four-seater. It comes complete with the BMW Curved Display that includes a
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment display. It
also has four-zone automatic climate control, sport seats clad in Merino
leather, and can be optioned with electrically adjustable comfort seats with
active seat ventilation and a massage function.
Powering the X5 Protection VR6 is BMW’s
familiar 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 working alongside a 48-volt mild-hybrid
system to produce a combined 530 hp and 750 Nm of torque. It is
also equipped with adaptive M suspension, an M Sport differential, and active
roll stabilization. BMW says that the first deliveries of the armored X5 will
start in February 2024 and that it will debut at September’s IAA Mobility show
in Munich.
