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.
The 2019 Jaguar I-Pace tackles the Tesla question with a direct challenge: It's a better-looking Model X rival with a more traditional kind of prestige attached.
Pros All-electric powertrain No interior gimmicks 240-mile range All the elements for good handling Spacious interior
Cons Unconventional shape Just one battery size Reliability is always a concern Will Tesla shoppers make the jump? Expensive first try
The 2019 Jaguar I-Pace ranked #1 in Luxury Compact SUVs. Currently the Jaguar I-Pace has a score of 9.2 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 12 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Bracing, near-silent acceleration Exhilarating driving dynamics Impressive all-electric range Spacious, elegant cabin
Cons Infotainment-related technology can be wonky and slow to respond
If you’re still anticipating that the arrival of any new electric vehicle will undo a 15-year-old car company, it’s time to let go of that fantasy. The Tesla killer is a myth. A phantom. A four-wheeled Chupacabra. That’s true even as the 2019 Jaguar I-Pace—a $70,495 five-seat crossover with an estimated 240 miles of range—establishes itself as the most complete electric vehicle yet. A Tesla competitor? Absolutely. Will it suck the life out of Tesla sales? Not a chance.
Pros Equal parts speed and serenity, luxe fit and finish.
Cons Slow-acting touchscreens, incomplete public charging network.
