When recently renewing the Mercedes S-Class, the star house has not forgotten the armored version. With its top-of-the-line model receiving VR10 certification, which corresponds to the highest level of protection available in civilian vehicles, the structural reinforcement of the body and windows has resulted in a (very) significant increase in weight of the S 680 Guard 4Matic, the only one in the family powered by a 612 hp twin-turbo V12, compared to any of its so-called “normal” variants.
Developed for very specific uses and clients, the S 680 Guard 4Matic has also received technological updates, in addition to a modernization of the exterior image, and the new interior presentation common to all the new generation S-Class models. It thus positions itself as a choice directed at heads of state, diplomats, or businesspeople who operate, above all, in higher-risk regions. The luxury sedan combines the integrated protection system (iSS), developed in-house by the brand, with an exterior structure made of aluminum designed to benefit from VR10 ballistic certification.
The German brand emphasizes that the levels of safety and protection have been validated during an extensive and intense development and testing program, thus there is no other executive sedan produced in series with the same certification – both for the transparent surfaces (glass) and for the opaque bodywork. According to automotive armor standards, this VR10 “seal” is the highest level of protection in non-military vehicles, for resistance to gunfire, including high-velocity rounds and armor-piercing ammunition, as well as to many explosive devices.
The model also incorporates various specific features from the Guard line, including an automatic fire extinguishing system, fresh air supply during emergencies, dedicated external communication, and servo-assisted doors. Mercedes also offers a wide range of options and customized solutions, allowing the vehicle to be configured according to highly specialized requirements.
Despite the structural reinforcement, the S 680 Guard 4Matic maintains a discreet appearance. Externally, it benefits from all the elements introduced in the renewal of the S-Class, such as the front grille with multiple illuminated stars, the next-generation headlight groups, and the revised taillights. Under the hood remains the 6.0-V12 with 612 hp, used since 2021. As with other variants in the range, it is possible to customize the rear interior area, which includes a MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment system, allowing, among other things, for video conferencing.
