All-New V12 Armored Mercedes S680 Guard Launches, Bullet- and Blast-Resistant

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the new S680 Guard armored vehicle, based on the mid-cycle refresh of the W223 S-Class and featuring over 2,700 modified components. Powered by a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine producing 603 horsepower, the vehicle weighs 4.2 metric tons and comes equipped with all-wheel drive and an electronically limited top speed of 190 km/h. As the world’s only series-production sedan certified to VR10 ballistic protection standards, both its body and glass can withstand gunfire and certain explosive threats. The interior includes a 900-liter emergency compressed-air supply system, an automatic fire suppression system, servo-assisted doors, and hydraulically operated window regulators—all fully functional even in the event of total electrical failure. Additionally, the vehicle comes standard with Michelin PAX run-flat tires, allowing it to travel up to 30 kilometers after a puncture. Although pricing has not been disclosed, the previous generation started at €547,000—significantly higher than a standard Maybach S-Class. Mercedes-Benz confirmed that the V12 engine will continue to be offered in future Maybach S-Class models, preserving this rare powertrain configuration.