Mercedes-Benz S 680 GUARD 4MATIC: this is the impressive armored S-Class

First objective: surpassing the VPAM VR10 protection level, the highest rating that exists against bullets or explosives for a civilian vehicle. And that is the first selling point of the new Mercedes-Benz S 680 GUARD 4MATIC, the new armored saloon from the brand with the star, which has been manufacturing armored vehicles for more than 90 years.

The S 680 GUARD 4MATIC, which will be presented at the Munich Motor Show, will go on sale with a price – excluding taxes – starting at €457,000.

First armored Mercedes saloon with 4MATIC all-wheel drive

It is rather curious that, until now, none of the armored Mercedes saloons has been equipped with one of the brand’s distinctive technical features: 4MATIC all-wheel drive. In this case, the torque distribution is 31% to the front axle and 69% to the rear. In addition, the all-wheel drive mechanism has been adapted to this armored version to improve its robustness.

The S 680 GUARD 4MATIC also becomes the first Mercedes to combine all-wheel drive with a 12-cylinder engine. The twin-turbo V12 that powers the large armored saloon receives slight modifications to the turbocharger, the intake and the exhaust manifold, as well as a gasoline particulate filter. It delivers 616 hp, with a maximum torque of 830 Nm. This allows the S 680 GUARD to reach a top speed of 190 km/h, which could be much higher, but is limited due to the extra weight of the armor.

An interesting change is that, instead of integrating armor elements into the body structure of the standard Mercedes S-Class, the brand has developed a specific body for the new S 680 GUARD, with a dedicated protection cell.

Bulletproof and explosion-proof

In the cabin armor of a vehicle of this type, the windows are of particular importance. Here a structure with several layers, including one of polycarbonate is used, which ensures protection against shrapnel. Its certification is the highest, VR10.

All certification tests have been carried out according to the guidelines of the VPAM association, which brings together the ballistic resistance testing laboratories of materials and constructions. The body and windows resist attacks with assault rifles using steel-core ammunition, and protection against explosive charges earns the top rating in all tests, which include tests for the roof, floor and sides.

For the first time, for certification testing, special dummies called Biofidel were used, whose simulated bone structure density faithfully reflects the characteristics of the human skeleton. Among their peculiarities, the artificial bones of these dummies are made from aluminum powder and resin, and their ligaments are made of propylene.

The technical equipment of the Mercedes S 680 GUARD is completed by the electromechanical system for the convenient opening and closing of the doors, with sensors capable of recognizing whether there is a real intention to open or close them thanks to the interaction of collaborative robots with humans. The doors themselves have units with a compressor that allows the windows to be closed in case of an attack if the onboard electrical network fails.

Also included are the fire extinguishing systems, emergency fresh air supply and external communication systems, as well as Michelin PAX puncture-proof run-flat tyres, which allow driving up to 30 km even when damaged.

S 680 GUARD 4MATIC Mercedes image gallery