Pros Both available engines are smooth, powerful and fuel-efficient Easy personalization thanks to abundant standard and optional features Impressive handling for an SUV
Cons Sloping roofline compromises rear headroom and cargo space
The 2022 BMW X4 crossover goes back for styling seconds: you’ll have to judge whether it’s worth the calories.
Pros Willing turbocharged engines Balanced handling Scalding M performance Excellent interior tech Lots of available safety gear
Cons Style not for everyone So-so rear-seat human space So-so cargo space Mega M price tag
Updated styling elements mark the 2022 model year for the X4. BMW has tweaked the grille, the bumpers, exterior lighting elements, and wheel designs this year and has reworked the X4's center console. The hot M40i model gains a 48-volt hybrid system and larger 12.3-inch infotainment and gauge displays are now standard.
Pros Nicely balanced chassis, powerful turbocharged engine options, cool fastback exterior styling.
Cons Snug rear seat space, cargo room not as generous as X3's, sober interior styling.
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.
