Ever since the G-Class first went into production back in 1979, it’s Austrian company Magna Steyr that has been responsible for the luxury SUV’s assembly and military grade components for the armored editions.
The “usual” armored G-Class that rolls out the Magna Steyr assembly line looks almost just like any other G-Class, except it can survive bomb blasts and shots from .50 cal rifles. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class LAPV however, is just a little bit more extreme. The Light Armored Patrol Vehicle (LAPV) is based on the platform of the Mercedes-Benz G500 4×4^2, enjoying upgrades thanks to Magna Steyr’s military expertise.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class LAPV enjoys higher ground clearance, due to the portal axles being moved higher than the center of the wheels. Hub-mounted gears support the raise of the portal axles, boosting the car’s off-road competence even further.
Because the development of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class LAPV is classified as an official military project, no details have emerged about the car’s armor plating or engine performance. What is clear from the spy shots is that the car is equipped with a slightly angled front bumper, giving it better approaching angles. Additionally it features a snorkel and winch, making it suitable for crossing the occasional river bed.
