Do you remember how you spent the last days of 2019, and what your aspirations or plans were for the year 2020? Now that the narrative has dramatically shifted, those days seem so distant and foggy. In all likelihood, none of us had the faintest idea of the chaos that would be unfolding just a few months into the new year. If you were given the keys to a civilian armored vehicle today, where would you escape to, and what would you do?
I’d quietly pack my bags and run away to a remote town like Kernville in the Central Valley of California to appreciate the wilderness; a Terradyne Gurkha LAPV would be unimaginably useful in such an environment. I’d drive the bulletproof behemoth up Highway 395 to explore all the small towns from Inyokern to Bishop and beyond. Then I’d head back south and take a detour to Death Valley National Park, where the Terradyne Gurkha LAPV could flex its muscles and show its true colors.
Maybe we’re on the same page, or maybe you’d go somewhere different. Wherever you’d go, here are five civilian armored vehicles for a great escape into the wild.
Brabus Invicto Luxury
Meeting the VR6 Plus ERV standard, the Brabus Invicto Luxury is armored with a protection package developed for the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. The armored Brabus Invicto Luxury can resist attacks from firearms, including an AK-47, as well as explosive devices up to 15 kg of TNT, and hand grenades. The “Invicto Shelter Cell” is a self-contained, self-supporting, and bolted-down unit that provides maximum protection.
Fitted with a bulletproof windshield and heavy-duty 20-inch run-flat tires, optional upgrades include a Brabus 800-horsepower engine spec and Widestar widebody kit, enhancing its exterior with naked-carbon components. Additionally, a reinforced suspension, high-performance braking system, and strengthened vehicle frame promise durability and improved driving dynamics.
Devolro King David
Devolro offers extensive customization for its trucks; from interior stitching to rear bumpers, every detail is crafted to user specifications. The King David, a modified Toyota Tundra with a 5.7-liter V-8 engine upgraded to 530 horsepower, stands out among their offerings. Its Dev-x protective coating adds a layer of defense against flames, rust, dents, UV light, chips, and scratches.
The Devolro King David can be armored with a B4-B8 level full armoring package that enhances the entire truck structure. Key features include a Devolro suspension system, high-performance Brembo GT brake kit, and a robust luxury interior with a thermal night vision camera.
Rezvani Tank X
The Rezvani Tank X offers an optional 1,000-horsepower V-8 engine from the Dodge Challenger Demon. This armored vehicle, constructed with ballistic armor, is designed to withstand explosives, assault rifles, and other high-caliber weapons. It provides luxurious accommodations with ten interior styling options and exceptional defensive features.
Among the Tank X’s defense mechanisms are electrified shocking door handles, front and rear blinding lights, gas masks, smoke screens, thermal night vision, and electromagnetic pulse (EMP) protection technology.
Terradyne Gurkha LAPV
Built on the Ford F550 chassis, the Terradyne Gurkha LAPV (Light Armored Patrol Vehicle) resembles a military humvee. Featured prominently in action films, this vehicle has gained popularity among adventure seekers. Powered by a 6.7-liter turbodiesel V-8 engine combined with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Gurkha LAPV can accommodate up to 12 passengers and features a B7/Stanag 2 armoring level.
Though it may not excel in fuel efficiency, with its 40-gallon fuel tank, it ensures extended range, and its robust design can handle tough terrains, making it an excellent choice for remote escapades.
Range Rover Autobiography by Klassen
For one of its recent projects, luxury tuning company Klassen stretched a Range Rover Autobiography by 40 inches, adding VR7 ballistic protection. As the most luxurious armored vehicle on this list, the Klassen Range Rover combines standard features with high-end defense equipment, setting a benchmark for security and comfort.
The interior boasts sumptuous captain’s chairs, an advanced console, privacy curtains, and a unique glass partition that can transition from transparent to opaque, ensuring the utmost exclusivity and protection. Additional features include a sliding glass roof and a hidden inner rear door that provides further safety when opened.
