For obvious
reasons, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a highly popular vehicle with the rich
and famous, particularly in countries with developing road infrastructure. Now
that the automaker has given its boxy off-roader a massive overhaul, chances are the G-Wagen will become even more
popular. Canada’s Inkas Armored Vehicle Manufacturing is certainly betting on
that because it has just unveiled the bulletproof version of the range-topping
Mercedes-AMG G63.
The company has
managed to secure a limited supply of the G-Class and has become one of the
first specialists to release an armored version. The SUV has received a CEN
1063 BR6 ballistic protection level using premium armoring technologies and materials.
Essentially, that means it can withstand fire from high-power rifles, AK47s,
and other assault weapons. Nice to have in a place like, say, Chechnya. While
protection is obviously very important, customers will be happy to learn the
armored G-Wagen drives very similar to the standard model — at least that’s
what Inkas claims.
That’s due to the
use of innovative composite materials, which also grant the G63 360-degree
protection from high-power rifle ammunition as well as “the simultaneous detonation
of two hand grenades below the vehicle’s floor.” Equally important is the fact
that the armored G63 looks like a regular model from the outside and that
should help keep unwanted attention at bay.
As with the
standard vehicle, the bulletproof G63 features a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine
producing up to 577 hp and 849 Nm of torque. The V8 is
hooked to a nine-speed automatic transmission and a 4Matic+ AWD system with a
front/rear torque distribution ratio of 40:60. No performance figures were
released but a slight drop in acceleration times is to be expected given the
added weight.
Besides the
standard kit, Inkas offers optional extras such as a lightweight armoring
package, fire suppression system, siren/PA/intercom system, emergency lights,
as well as heavy duty wheels and braking system. The company will also take
individual requests for interior layouts, stretched versions, and external
styling modifications.
Prices start at US$ 295,000 but can easily hit the US$ 1 million mark if outfitted like the
previously-released G63 VIP Limousine.