ALL-ROUND PROTECTION

The new, armoured version of the M-Class is the latest addition to the extensive Mercedes-Benz Guard family.

The individual protection elements are integrated in the raw vehicle bodyshell from scratch in an autonomous process, by virtue of which the entire passenger compartment receives a kind of coat of armour that even includes elements such as the roof frame struts, locks, door gaps and exterior mirror mounts.
The new M-Guard meets the requirements of protection level VR4 according to testing guidelines BRV 2009 for special-protection vehicles with bullet resistance. The independent, neutral test ensures that the integrated protection concept is appropriate to face the hard requirements of real danger situations. The M‑Guard passed successfully the tests of fire from different angles and blasts, for example with DM51 hand grenade. Both in the front and in the vehicle rear, these were resisted by the M-Guard with the optional floor armour successfully. The armoured vehicle is fitted with tyres of run-flat capability, that make it possible to drive on safely for up to 30 km at a maximum speed of 80 km/h even if the tyre has suffered a total loss of air.
The special-protection variant features as standard an AIRMATIC air suspension system with Adaptive Damper System (ADS) specifically adapted to the vehicle’s special protection features. Stronger axle components compensate for the increased weight of the M-Guard superbly, Guard-specific torsion bars at the rear axle optimise roll behaviour in fast curves and when taking evasive action.
With the new ML 350 BlueTEC Guard there is a diesel power plant for the first time in this segment. The  V6  diesel engine  is just as economical as it is agile, it offers 190 kW output (258 hp) and a top torque level of 620 Nm. It meets the requirements of the currently strictest EURO 6 emissions standard. The V8 petrol-engine-powered ML 500 Guard with 300 kW (408 hp) and 600 Nm is available as an alternative.