Mercedes S600 Guard launched in India at INR 8.9 crores - IAB Report [Update]

21/05/2015 - 22:49 Mercedes S Class, Mercedes-Benz Aravind Jayachandran

Update - New image gallery added below the report.

Features class-leading VR9-level protection.

Mercedes-Benz India today launched the Mercedes S600 Guard armored vehicle at the Buddh International Circuit. Based on the flagship S600L variant, it is priced at INR 8.9 crore (ex-showroom Delhi).

2015 Mercedes S600 Guard front quarter launched in India — The Mercedes S600 Guard is one of those few vehicles that doesn't appear to be an armored vehicle from a quick glance.

The exterior remains largely identical to the standard Mercedes S Class, save for body upgrades normally required for armored vehicles. For instance, the luxury sedan’s bodyshell has been strengthened, while the doors are several millimeters thicker than the standard S Class.

The power-operated windows are so heavy that they required a hydraulic-based mechanism to open and close, unlike the conventional electric motors. The armor protection is rated VR9-level, which is the highest rating there is.

2015 Mercedes S600 Guard front quarter with headlamps on launched in India — The S-Guard's bodyshell has been strengthened, while the doors are several millimeters thicker than the standard S Class.

With increase in weight (which Mercedes will not divulge), the standard air suspension has been toughened up to offer a similar ride quality. The weight gain has also forced the company to fit larger brakes with six piston calipers, so that there is no compromise in stopping power.

The S Guard runs on exclusive Michelin PAX run-flat tyres that has a 28 km range with zero pressure. Other features include automatic fire suppression and an emergency fresh air system.

To pull the heavy vehicle and accelerate out of unfortunate situations, the Mercedes S Guard will only be offered with a 6.0-liter V12 motor delivering 530 PS and 830 Nm of torque, matched to the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. To handle the power and driving characteristics, Mercedes will offer training for two drivers with the purchase of the S600 Guard.

2015 Mercedes S600 Guard front three quarter launched in India — The Mercedes S Guard will only be offered with a 6.0-liter V12 motor delivering 530 PS and 830 Nm of torque.

Also See: India-bound Mercedes GLC dashboard exposed

The Mercedes S Guard will join other armored vehicles offered by the company, which are the Mercedes E-Guard, and M-Guard. Prior to its launch, Mercedes India say they have already secured "many pre-orders" for the S600 Guard.