by VIP test of armored BMWs
Recently, VIP guests had the opportunity to test armored BMW vehicles. The company sells protected versions of the X5 SUV and the 7 Series sedan. Drivers were able to compare the armored models with standard BMWs.
In-house production of armored vehicles
Although many associate the creation of the best armored vehicles with external specialists, BMW itself has been producing its own for over four decades. Building such cars is a niche within a niche, but the German brand spares no expense to ensure their reliability.
Demonstration of capabilities
Currently, BMW offers reinforced versions of the 7 Series and X5. Last month, the company invited 67 participants from eight European countries to test these vehicles. While we are slightly disappointed not to have received an invitation, the participants were exclusively from the private sector and planned to purchase an armored BMW or an entire fleet of such cars.
BMW’s New X5 Protection VR6 Is A Subtle Yet Effective Armored Beast
The automaker was particularly eager to show visitors how well the armored 7 Series and X5 perform, despite their significantly greater weight compared to standard models. For testing, they were driven alongside the regular 740d and 750e, as well as the X5 50e, X5 40d, and X5 M.
A different Bimmer
Participants also had the chance to see how the models handle emergency braking while cornering, and special off-road sections were used to test the X5’s capabilities. The event took place at BMW’s development center in Sokolov, with certified instructors from Germany and the Czech Republic.
Model specifications
BMW introduced the current 7 Series and X5 Protection models in 2023. The X5 has VR6 ballistic protection, while the 7 Series achieves the higher VR9 level, allowing it to withstand prolonged attacks from firearms and explosives. It is equipped with a mild-hybrid 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 523 hp and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque, although it is also available as the i7 version based on the M70 xDrive model.
Interestingly, BMW does not simply adapt standard models but creates fully armored versions from scratch, which allows it to maintain handling and comfort despite the significant additional weight. Testing at the specialized proving ground in Sokolov underscores the company’s serious approach to safety, as participants could personally verify the effectiveness of the protection systems in real-world conditions, including emergency braking and off-road driving. This approach makes armored BMWs attractive not only to government agencies but also to private clients who value safety without compromising on design and dynamics.
