2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Guard Breaks Cover

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is favoured by state heads, politicians, business tycoons and celebrities. And while some jobs have a low-risk work environment, there are others who are constantly on a watchlist of potential targets. That's really where the S-Class Guard steps in. It's the armoured derivative of the limousine and now we have a new-generation version of the car with new levels of protection. The new S-Class Guard gets VPAM VR10 certification which is a step above the B7 protection offered previously. It looks identical to the standard S-Class, which in a way is a safety feature, given that attackers wouldn't immediately come to know of the car's armoured nature.

Also Read: 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review; Luxury Redefined

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Guard looks identical to the standard S-Class

The VPAM VR10 certification is the highest level with regard to ballistic protection for a civilian vehicle in Europe. This means that it is equipped with polycarbonate windows that are 10 cm thick, multi-layered glass, and Michelin PAX run-flat tyres that can be used for up to 30 km after a puncture. The body shell is also reinforced and gets armoured plating in places for enhanced protection levels.

The new-generation S-Guard is capable of handling bullets from small firearms and even an explosion. It comes equipped with an emergency oxygen tank, and a fire extinguisher. Other changes include the hydraulic windows over the standard S-Class, which will continue to work even if the onboard electronics fail. Mercedes-Benz has also recalibrated the gearbox and steering for better handling, owing to all that extra weight added in the car due to the armoured body. The new S-Class Guard weighs about 4.2 tonnes, over twice as much as the standard S-Class.

Also Read: Top 5 Highlights: New-Gen Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The S-Class Guard is equipped with an emergency oxygen tank and fire extinguisher

Power on the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S680 Guard 4MATIC comes from the 6.0-litre V12 engine that develops 603 bhp and 850 Nm of peak torque. Compared to its predecessor, torque has dropped by 70 Nm. Power is sent to all four wheels while the top speed is electronically limited to 190 kmph.

Apart from the special amour on the S-Guard, the limousine is equipped with other creature comforts that the model is known for. It does get the 12.3-inch digital driver's display and 12.8-inch MBUX touchscreen infotainment system, as well as connected car tech, premium leather upholstery, ambient lights and more. German media reports suggest that Mercedes-Benz won't be building the longer-wheelbase S-Class Pullman anymore and only the S680 Guard will be on sale.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Guard use polycarbonate windows that are 10 cm thick

The new-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class is priced from Rs. 2.17 crore (ex-showroom) in the country. Meanwhile, the new S-Guard is priced in Europe from $650,000 (approx. Rs. 4.84 crore) onwards. However, the S-Class Guard can easily set you back by Rs. 10-12 crore in India once imported.