Armoured BMW X5 updated and ready for Australian Federal Police

You wouldn’t know it by looking at it, but this BMW X5 will take a bullet for you.

The 2024 BMW X5 Protection VR6 has been unveiled, and the bullet-proof SUV could be coming to a city or trouble-spot near you.

BMW updated the X5 Protection VR6 – one of the factory-made armoured models from the German brand – receiving a minor exterior facelift and the refreshed interior as with the standard BMW X5 introduced in February 2023.

The VR6 – which refers to the level of armoured protection – can resist a variety of pistol and rifle rounds, as well as being resistant to explosive blasts.

While the Australian Federal Police doesn’t typically make announcements regarding its armoured fleet, the organisation has been using armoured BMW X5s to transport VIPs – including the Prime Minister – for more than a decade.

Prior to the switch to BMWs, it’s understood the AFP used locally-made Ford Territory SUVs that had been upgraded with armour – severely compromising performance and handling, but protecting occupants.

Drive understands the AFP maintains a fleet of armoured BMW X5 SUVs and BMW 7 Series limousines in Australian capital cities to safely transport dignitaries when required.

The latest BMW X5 Protection VR6 is powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine mated to a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing a total of 390kW and 750Nm.

MORE: Australian Federal Police to upgrade armoured BMW X5 fleet for VIPs

Despite its significant – though undisclosed – weight, the armoured X5 can hit 100km/h from a standstill in a claimed 5.9 seconds.

Along with optional flashing blue lights, an intercom to communicate with those outside the car, and optional flag poles (for official occasions), the BMW X5 Protection VR6 comes standard with a “self-sealing” fuel tank to prevent fuel loss after being hit by a bullet.

While BMW will sell you an X5 Protection VR6 in potentially volatile regions such as South America, Africa, and Russia, retail customers aren’t able to purchase one in Australia without a very good reason – with armoured cars falling into the same highly-regulated category as bulletproof vests and other controlled items.

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