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 updates the 2021 E-Pace lineup with some fresh styling inside and out, as well as several newly available features. The exterior cues include a revised front bumper with more prominent apertures, a reshaped grille with a snazzier mesh design, and new LED headlights with "double J-blade" daytime running lights. Inside, a larger 11.4-inch curved touchscreen running Jaguar's new Pivi Pro infotainment system is now available. Likewise, a digital rearview mirror joins the option sheet.
PROS Charming and sporty appearance, playful handling behavior, improved interior appointments.
CONS Pricier than its competitors, small back-seat space, heaviness hinders acceleration versus competitors.
For 2021 Refreshed exterior styling.300 Sport engine now uses mild hybrid technology.New infotainment system.Revised trim level lineup.
PROS Ample power from turbocharged engine Relatively spacious inside Appealing mix of standard and luxury features Striking design
CONS Ride quality suffers with larger optional wheels Rear seats lack headroom
The 2021 Jaguar E-Pace is unranked in Luxury Subcompact SUVs due to missing safety data. Currently, the Jaguar E-Pace's overall score is not available, though its Critics' Rating, Performance score, and Interior score are based on our evaluation of 22 pieces of research and data.
PROS Straightforward infotainment system Elegant cabin Spry handling Great predicted reliability rating
CONS Poor fuel economy estimates Stiff ride Tight rear seats
