Earlier in the year, BMW introduced the comprehensively revamped 2024 X5 model, including an armored variant in its lineup.
Set to be publicly showcased at the Munich Automotive Exhibition in 2023, the BMW X5 Protection VR6 is a refreshed version of the original armored model first released in 2019. According to BMW, it has since earned the title of the best-selling vehicle in its particular category.
Though visually indistinguishable from the standard X5, the Protection VR6 model incorporates high-tensile steel armor integrated into its body, doors, and roof. Additionally, BMW has installed a fortified partition between the passenger cabin and the cargo space, an underbody guard made of aluminum, and a fuel tank capable of self-sealing. Optional features include enhanced underbody and rooftop armor, along with the availability of flashing lights and flag poles.
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2024 BMW X5 Protection VR6 Features
The armored vehicle also includes thicker window glass as part of its security enhancements. However, BMW ensures that user conveniences such as electric windows and a heated windshield remain. Standard interior amenities include an M-branded leather steering wheel, quadruple-zone climate control, and sport-style seats. Leather upholstery is available as an optional extra. The Protection VR6 comes equipped with the same 12.3-inch digital dashboard and 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system as the standard X5, all under a single pane of glass.
The vehicle is powered by a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 engine derived from the X5 M60i xDrive. Despite the increased mass due to the added armor, the engine retains its original specifications, delivering 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. The model also features a mild-hybrid system capable of providing a brief 12-horsepower boost. BMW predicts the vehicle will accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in approximately 5.9 seconds, with its top speed electronically capped at 130 mph.
Chassis and Availability
The Protection VR6 comes standard with adaptive M suspension, an M Sport differential, rear-axle steering, and active roll stabilization. BMW notes that the chassis has been specially tuned for this armored version.
Production of the model will commence in 2024 and will be carried out in conjunction with the standard X5 at the Spartanburg facility in South Carolina. While third-party firms like Inkas offer armor retrofitting for BMW vehicles, BMW reaffirms its commitment to in-house production of armored models. The X5 Protection VR6 will be joined by factory-armored editions of the 7-Series and i7, also set to make their public debut in Munich.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about It appears that your message is empty. If you have any further questions or need additional information, please feel free to ask.
What is the BMW X5 Protection VR6?
The BMW X5 Protection VR6 is an armored version of BMW’s standard X5 model. It is designed to offer enhanced security features such as integrated high-strength steel armor, an armored partition between the cabin and cargo area, and a self-sealing fuel tank, while maintaining the luxury and performance of the original X5 model.
When and where will the BMW X5 Protection VR6 be unveiled?
The BMW X5 Protection VR6 is set to make its public debut at the Munich Automotive Exhibition in 2023.
What are the engine specifications of the BMW X5 Protection VR6?
The vehicle is equipped with a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 engine, identical to the one in the BMW X5 M60i xDrive. Despite the added weight of the armor, the engine’s output remains at 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque.
Does the BMW X5 Protection VR6 have any optional features?
Yes, the BMW X5 Protection VR6 offers optional features including enhanced underbody and rooftop armor, as well as optional flashing lights and flag poles. Leather upholstery is also available as an optional extra.
How does the vehicle’s performance compare to the standard X5?
The BMW X5 Protection VR6 has been engineered to maintain robust performance despite its added weight. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in an estimated 5.9 seconds, and its top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph.
What is unique about the chassis of the BMW X5 Protection VR6?
The chassis has been specially tuned for the Protection VR6 model. It comes standard with adaptive M suspension, an M Sport differential, rear-axle steering, and active roll stabilization.
Where will the BMW X5 Protection VR6 be manufactured?
The vehicle will be produced alongside the standard BMW X5 at BMW’s Spartanburg manufacturing facility in South Carolina.
Does BMW offer other factory-armored models?
Yes, BMW plans to introduce factory-armored versions of the 7-Series and i7, which will also make their debut at the Munich Automotive Exhibition in 2023.
What kind of infotainment system does the BMW X5 Protection VR6 have?
The vehicle comes with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, similar to the one in the standard X5 model.
Will third-party companies offer armor retrofitting for the BMW X5?
While third-party companies like Inkas do offer armor retrofitting services for BMW models, BMW itself remains committed to in-house production of armored vehicles.
More about It appears that your message is empty. If you have any further questions or need additional information, please feel free to ask.
- BMW Official Website
- 2023 Munich Automotive Exhibition
- BMW X5 M60i xDrive Specifications
- Inkas Armored Vehicles
- BMW Spartanburg Manufacturing Facility
- Adaptive M Suspension Explained
- M Sport Differential Overview
10 comments
Finally an SUV that can take me through any landscape or situation, but I gotta know, how much is this gonna cost me?
have to say, I’m really impressed with BMW keeping performance intact despite all that armor. Thats quite an engineering feat!
Adaptive M suspension and active roll stabilization, these aren’t just bells and whistles. BMW’s really pushing the envelope in the armored car sector.
Wow, BMW’s really stepping up their game. Armored and still luxury? That’s insane, man.
I know it’s armored and all, but what about fuel efficiency? Not very eco-friendly, is it?
Twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 and armor? this is like a dream come true. But wonder how the fuel economy’s gonna be lol
They’re making it in Spartanburg, SC? Cool to see American facilities in the mix.
As a public relations pro, i can say BMW’s doing a great job positioning itself as a leader in both luxury and safety. Good on them!
A luxury armored vehicle that’s still high-performance? This screams corporate VIP all the way. Gotta show this to the execs.
Love the focus on safety without compromising on luxury or performance. Thicker glass, self-sealing tanks…BMW’s thought of everything.