BMW X5 Security Plus revealed

An armoured version of the BMW X5 has been revealed. The car will debut at the upcoming Moscow motor show.

The X5 Security Plus offers protection up to VR6 standard - which means it can withstand gunfire from common automatic rifles. Though BMW has released few details of how it has upgraded the X5, the manufacturer says the car's seam joints and connecting panels have all been upgraded, while toughened safety glass has also been fitted.

Based on the xDrive50i, the X5 Security Plus is powered by a 4.4-litre V8 engine with 449bhp and 66.2kgm of torque. The added weight of BMW's security enhancements is sure to push the kerb weight of the X5 up beyond the 2250kg of the standard car. Expect the xDrive50i's 0-100kph sprint time of 4.9 seconds to increase, too.

Inside, the X5 looks much the same as the standard car, though BMW says that the X5's driver aids and suspension systems have been modified, and new switchgear has been fitted to the centre console. The Security Plus will be built alongside other armoured BMW models at a dedicated factory in Mexico.