BMW is preparing to launch a new version of its popular X5->ke326 SUV, the F15 Security Plus. To the casual observer, nothing is amiss with the X5, but to a firearm-wielding criminal bent on theft or worse, the F15 Security Plus is a rolling safehouse disguised as a BMW->ke178.

BMW will officially debut the armored X5 at the upcoming Moscow Auto Show->ke3669 next week, though the original concept made its first appearance in Frankfurt->ke235 last year. The F15 Security Plus is designed to meet the VR6 protection level, meaning attacks from small arms fire like the AK-47, AR-15, and most hand guns will have no effect on the passenger’s health (well, save for panic or heart attacks).

Ballistic panels and glass aren’t the only modifications BMW has done to the F15. The chassis has been strengthened while the electronic management systems and brakes have been upgraded to deal with the added weight. Power comes from the twin-turbocharged, 4.4-liter V-8 making 445 horsepower and 480 pound feet of torque.

This isn’t BMW’s first in-house armored vehicle. The German automaker has been producing armored versions of its 7 Series->ke323 for nearly two decades. Currently BMW is producing the VR7-rated 7 Series rated to protect against more lethal threats like explosives and higher-powered rifles.

BMW will also offer a lighter, VR4-rated X5 SUV->ke145 for customers looking for basic protection but with minimal changes in vehicle driving dynamics. More details are slated for release once the vehicle debuts in Moscow.

Click past the jump to read more about the BMW X5 F15 Security Plus

2015 BMW X5 F15 Security Plus

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2015 BMW X5 F15 Security Plus
  • Engine/Motor: inline-6
  • Horsepower: 300
  • Torque: 300
  • Transmission: Eight-Speed Automatic
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

BMW X5 F15 Security Plus In Detail

BMW X5

The BMW X5 is a popular luxury SUV the world over with no less than three engine options, two- or four-wheel-drive, and a multitude of trim packages. The X5 offers room for five and loads of amenities like dual screens for second row passengers and BMW’s latest iDrive infotainment system.

The standard engine is the respectable 3.0-liter, inline six-cylinder with BMW’s TwinPower turbocharging system. It makes 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. A 3.0-liter turbo-diesel is also available, and it makes 255 horses and 413 pound-feet of torque. The top-range engine and the one available in the F15 Security Plus X5 is the 4.4-liter V-8. With twin turbochargers spooling up, it makes 445 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque.

Pricing for the X5 starts at $53,725 for the 3.0-liter gasoline version and the V-8 starts out at $69,125. Expect to pay quite a hefty chunk more for the armored version.