After Series-7, BMW Launches X5 2024 Bullet Resistant Variant

BMW X5 Protection VR6. (Doc. BMW Group)

JAKARTA - One of Germany's Sport Activity Vehicle (SAV), BMW X5, has received a refresher earlier this year with several changes. Most recently, BMW released X5 which is equipped with an extraordinary security system and will be displayed at the IAA 2023 exhibition.

The design of the body at BMW X5 2024 has been strengthened more than ever. The variant known as the BMW X5 Protection VR6 has now been shown to be bullet-resistant.

According to a report from Motor1 on Monday, August 28, at first sight, the car looks similar to the previous version. The manufacturer only adds a touch of sporty to X5, such as the M emblem placed on the front grip, a glossy black M rearview mirror cover, an Individual BMW roof rail, and a placement of two BMW M typical exhausts.

However, changes do not only occur in that section. This BMW X5 is now equipped with a high-power steel plate that forms a vehicle body, covering the door, side frame, roof, and barrier.

In addition, there is also a trunk barrier from the steel layer as well as an aluminum shield against the shrapnel installed at the bottom of the car. Even the fuel tank has also received protection with a special sheath to prevent leakage.

Interestingly, the BMW X5 Protection VR6 has met VPAM ballistic standards. Customers also have the option to complement additional protection at the bottom of the body and roof to get maximum protection levels.

BMW X5 Protection VR6 is based on the M60i xDrive variant, which is one of the top variants of the SAV. This means the car is powered by a 4.4 liter V8 twin-turbo engine combined with a 48V mild-hybrid system.

As a result, the BMW X5 Protection VR6 is able to produce an extra power of 523 dk and a peak torque of 749 Nm. However, with the addition of weight due to additional protection, his performance is slightly affected.

This car can fly from 0 to 100 km/hour in 5.9 seconds. Meanwhile, X5 M60i only takes 4.2 seconds to reach the same speed. Because other equipment that is also adapted to the protection system, this X5 with a steel coating has a maximum speed of 210 km/hour.

Despite having a sturdy construction, drivers and passengers will still find a luxurious interior equipped with a 14.9-inch infotainment screen on the new X5 as well as a 12.3-inch driver-help screen. The BMW four-zone climate control system is also standard, as well as a sports seat wrapped in Sensafin skin. It should be noted that this car is designed not for five passengers but for four passengers for optimal comfort and security.

Production of this car will take place at the tumbungburg plant, North Carolina, USA, along with standard X5 production. Although the price has not been announced, shipments of X5 with a steel coating are scheduled to begin in February 2024.

BMW has a long history of providing armored-protected cars for more than 40 years. This history began with the launch of the BMW Series-7 Security Vehicle in 1978. The next Series-7 generations also gained armored configurations until 2004, when BMW introduced BMW X5 Security. Protection features continue to be improved from generation to generation, including in the newer Series-7 and X5.