Armored vehicles date back to the days of Leonardo DaVinci and his drawing of armor plating in 1485. The idea has been steadily developing and changing throughout history, evolving from primitive man-made chariots fitted with wooden or steel protective plates to tanks and finally high-tech armored cars.
Yet, compared to the contemporary armored SUVs, the armored vehicles of old provided little to no protection to their operators from the enemy's fire. They were also incredibly underpowered, barely being able to move under their own weight. This has all changed, and today, civilians are able to buy and own armored vehicles that are not only fast and feature-packed but can also withstand bullets. Let's look at eight of the safest luxury armored SUVs on the planet.
8 Toyota Land Cruiser 200
Armored by Rita Cars, a Russian Armoring specialist, the Toyota Land Cruiser (TLC) 200 is one of the most capable SUVs that can tackle even the most challenging terrains while offering its passengers protection against external threats.
It seats up to eight people and provides top-level protection from blasts and gunfire. This workhorse features large calipers and brake rotors, as well as an independent front suspension. Roof pillars safeguard occupants in a rollover, and skid plates protect the Cruiser’s underbelly. Bulletproof windows are also a catch in this protection vehicle. The total weight of the armored vehicle is 3.3 tons.
7 Range Rover Autobiography
Sold by INKAS Armored Vehicle Manufacturing, the Range Rover Autobiography is just as luxurious and feature-packed as its everyday counterpart, but with the added ability to withstand bullets. In addition, the United Kingdom’s brand represents resilience and excellent performance with a 5.0 supercharged V8 engine giving out an impressive 518 horsepower engine and 461 lb-ft of torque.
The Range Rover Autobiography weighs 2.2 tons and measures 17 feet long. It also has a maximum speed of 140 miles per hour and can accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 5.4 seconds. The Interior is fully stocked with safety features and armoring solutions to offer maximum protection to occupants. An overlap system is integrated to provide all-around protection up to BR6 armor level.
6 BMW X5 Protection VR6
The bulletproof BMW X5 protection VR6 was manufactured by BMW itself to satisfy a niche for highly-secure armored vehicles. It’s 16 feet long, weighs 3.2 tons, and boasts a top speed of 130 miles per hour thanks to a 530-hp engine.
The armored SUV fits four adults and the reinforced tires, together with the bulletproof exterior courtesy of VR6-level armor, will make sure it gets them all to safety no matter the cost. Despite carrying all that armor, the X5 can still reach 60 mph in 5.9 seconds.
5 Lincoln Navigator
The standard Lincoln Navigator is among the safest SUVs in the United States, but this armored version takes things a step further, built and sold by INKAS.
Under the hood is a 450-horsepower engine giving the Navigator a top speed of 156 mph and a 5.9-second 0-60 mph acceleration. Unlike other luxury SUVs, this Navigator comes with state-of-art armor accompanied by a special, upgraded suspension, and premium ballistic glass.
4 Chevrolet Tactical SWAT Suburban
The Tactical Suburban is a special-purpose armored SUV designed as a more discreet armored rescue vehicle featuring numerous upgrades over the standard Chevy 3500 it uses as a base.
The armored SUV provides all-around rifle caliber and blast protection while being less expensive and not looking as aggressive. The Chevy is fitted with NIJ III/B6 Rated Armor, upgraded suspension and braking system, run-flat tires, rear step platform, Ram Bumper, communication equipment, thermal day-night cameras, and more.
3 Karlmann King
Built in Italy using a Ford F550 pickup chassis, the Karlmann King luxury armored SUV is among the most expensive cars worldwide. It's 19.6 feet long and weighs a full 6 tons yet is still able to navigate virtually any off-road terrain and withstand the serious direct blasts. It's not a fast vehicle, but its 367-horsepower engine does ensure a top speed of 87 mph.
The SUV is actually built to fit a family of 7, offering comfort and luxurious features. Besides, the SUV’s equipment is adjustable to suit users’ needs. It will easily withstand direct hits from rifles and handguns, allowing users to travel anywhere without disturbance.
2 Sentry Civilian 2020
Based on the sought-after Ford F-550, the Sentry Civilian 2020 is a heavy armored civilian SUV that ensures safety and performance on any terrain. While anyone can buy one, the SUV is used mainly by special forces. Key upgrades include heavy-duty brakes, an optimized suspension system, and reinforced mechanical components.
Aside from bulletproof windows, the SUV features BR6 level armor that covers all the vehicle's exterior surfaces and features reinforced tires.
1 Rezvani Tank X
Some enthusiasts are already familiar with U.S.-based manufacturer Rezvani Motors. Their niche are crazy and extremely-luxurious vehicles such as the Rezvani Beast, and the Rezvani Tank X has already been making headlines for its features and power.
The Tank X is a bulletproof luxury SUV featuring state-of-the-art tech you'd find in an upscale SUV. Its features include special bulletproof glass, run-flat tires, thermal night vision technology, and electrified door hinges to shock intruders.
To make it even more unstoppable, under the SUV's hood is a 1000-horsepower engine offering a top speed of 160 mph. If your goal is to feel like a real-life James Bond, this is probably the best SUV you can have.