Named the X5 Protection VR6, this conventionally casual SUV gets a superpower in that it can withstand a blast from 33 pounds of TNT and stop bullets in their tracks. Anything under rounds under the caliber of 7.62×39 is no match for the BMW X5 Protection VR6. As for the name, the automaker says it means the SUV meets VPAM criteria under Guidelines for Bullet-Resistant Vehicles and Explosive-Resistant Vehicles.
You have the car’s molded armor plating to thank for that. Further spicing things up include an aluminum underbody splinter shield, an armored luggage compartment, and a multilayered safety glass that measures 1.3 inches for the windshield.
BMW did a great job sealing up other vulnerable areas, too. As such, aiming for areas where panels meet is a no-no. BMW installed overlapping armor plating in those areas for even more security. And should a blast occur, BMW says the windows will remain firmly attached. As for the fuel tank, you get a self-sealing variant to prevent any fuel leaks.
On the technical side of things underneath, you’ll find a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine with 530 ponies and 533 pound-feet of torque at your disposal. Because it comes fitted with so much protective materials, the car does weigh a lot more than most options. BMW doesn’t specify how much more, though. Luckily, this shouldn’t be a concern at all. The automaker made sure the brakes and suspension can handle the extra bulk. Hit the link below to find out more about this ride.
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Photos courtesy of BMW
