Meet the Bulletproof BMW X5 Protection VR6

Kenneth John Published: September 01, 2023, 02:45 PM IST

The updated 2024 BMW X5 was launched earlier this year, and an armour-plated variation is available, as was the previous generation. The new BMW X5 Protection VR6 is set to make its public premiere in September at the 2023 Munich Motor Show.

The 'VR6' refers to the vehicle's ballistic and explosion resistance rating, which is achieved by the use of safety glass and an armoured passenger compartment. The latter is due to the usage of high-strength steel that has been adapted to the car's body.

This material is used to wrap the doors, side frame, roof, and bulkhead. In addition, the X5 Protection VR6 has an armoured barrier in the baggage area and an aluminium splinter guard in the underbody. The armoured SUV also has a self-sealing gasoline tank, which assures that people may escape even if the tank is damaged by a bullet.

Customers can also choose between expanded underbody armouring and enhanced roof armouring.

The Protection VR6 also has an intercom system for interacting with persons outside, optional LED flashers in the radiator grille, rear flashers, roof flashers with a horn system, and a roof antenna with an extra digital radio receiver.

Despite its tough exterior, the new X5 has a sumptuous interior that includes a 14.9-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch driver display. BMW's four-zone temperature control comes standard, as are Sensafin leather sport seats. However, there is no capacity for five passengers; BMW claims the X5 Protection VR6 is a four-seater only.

The remainder is very much stock 2024 BMW X5 M60i xDrive specification. Under the hood, a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 works in tandem with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to produce 525PS and 750Nm of torque. BMW does not share the weight of the X5 Protection VR6, but the extra heft has an influence on performance.

The sprint to 100 kmph takes 5.9 seconds, a major improvement over the M60i's 4.2 seconds. The top speed is electrically regulated at 210 kmph. Meanwhile, the suspension and chassis have been modified to suit the extra weight.

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Spec comparison: New Mercedes-Benz GLC vs Audi Q5 vs BMW X3

BMW X5 2020 Full Spec

Price (Ex-Delhi)
Starts Rs 74.9 Lakhs

Displacement
2998cc

Transmission
Automatic

Max Power(ps)
265

Max Torque(Nm)
450

Mileage
11.24 Kmpl

Audi Q5 2021 Full Spec

Price (Ex-Delhi)
Starts Rs 58.93 Lakhs