The 2020 BMW X6 is the crossover coupe that "nose" how to turn heads.
Pros Daring shape Imposing look Impressive performance Available V-8 power
Cons Light-up grille? You sure? Very expensive Not practical The X5 and X7 are very good
If the squareback BMW X5 isn't flashy enough for you, its coupe-like cousin—the X6—will be right up your alley. The 2020 model is all new; its sloping roofline and subtle ducktail rear end adds a shapely option to the lineup that looks sportier and more stylish than the X6 it replaces.The 2020 X6 will be offered with either a 335-hp turbocharged inline-six or a twin-turbocharged V-8 that makes a whopping 523 horsepower. The latter is a big bump versus the 2019 model's 445-hp unit. An all-new X6 M is likely but hasn't been announced yet; we review that model separately and expect an even more monstrous horsepower rating from that high-performance model.
The X6 is all-new for 2020.Receives tech and engines updates from the redesigned X5.Up to half a second quicker than last year's model.Launches the third X6 generation for 2020.
Pros Strong acceleration from both engines Comfortable and quiet ride High-quality interior
Cons Sloping roofline cuts down on cargo space Less-than-ideal rear visibility Limited rear-seat headroom
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.
