The BMW X6 has powerful engines and a luxurious, high-tech cabin. You’ll forgo some space and practicality versus a BMW X5 though, and spend more doing it.
Pros SUVs don’t come much quicker Fantastic infotainment system Impressive interior quality
Cons X5 equivalent has better rear headroom Audi RS Q8 is easier on the eyes Smaller boot than every alternative
While the regular BMW X6 is in its fourth generation, the high-performance 2020 X6 M has just embarked on its third. It's hard to tell the difference between the all-new model and the one it replaces, but upon closer inspection there are noteworthy improvements. The 2020 iteration is more powerful for one, adding between 33 and 50 horsepower. Its bodywork received a subtle but sharper-looking makeover, and its cabin has been overhauled with a modernized aesthetic and better technology.
Pros Astonishing performance, unapologetically brutal design, long list of standard features.
Cons Hugely impractical, limited rear visibility, thirsty for fuel.
The 2020 BMW X6 M comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.600 horsepower in standard trim or 617 hp with the Competition package.All-wheel-drive system maximized for handling performance.Adaptive suspension with active roll stabilization.
Pros Massive power from both available engines Startling acceleration at any speed Impressive handling performance High-quality interior packed with features
Cons Stiff and sometimes unyielding ride Distinctive styling limits rear headroom and cargo capacity
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.
