We’ve seen bullet-proof sedans and SUVs, but how about a bullet-proof estate? Yep, Skoda has developed an armored Superb Estate, which meets the PAS 300 requirements for ballistic and blast protection. Skoda collaborated with a U.K.-based company to build this unusual estate, and it costs a bomb! (Pun intended). Is there anything else different, apart from the new, stronger body?
Costlier Than The Polestar 1 And The Porsche Panamera
To start off, the car costs more than $150,000. Despite the steep price, it looks like a regular Superb. The reason for the exorbitant price is that the car offers bullet and blast protection for its occupants. The protection is provided by a combination of bullet-resistant glass, high strength steel, and composite materials. Regardless, the car is just as spacious as the standard production version and does not compromise practicality in any way.
What is PAS?
PAS describes test methods for assessing the ballistic and blast performance of civilian armored vehicles. In order for the Superb Estate to meet PAS 300 requirements, the car had to undergo an independent test that involved firing different types of ammunition, while also being exposed to various “blast and fragmentation threats.” According to Skoda, the bullet-resistant glass offers 360-degree protection.
Few Tweaks Mechanically
The stronger Superb gets the same 2.0-liter, TDI diesel engine that produces around 187 horses. The car tops out at 120 mph, which is slightly lesser than the regular Superb, but very impressive for a car this heavy. Apart from this, the Superb also features upgraded suspension and braking systems, run-flat tires, and an emergency lighting and siren system. The suspension and brakes had to be modified in order for the car to still handle well despite all the added weight. On the inside, there’s an 8-inch infotainment system with GPS, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity.
Our Take
Generally, armored cars look pretty different from the regular cars, and don’t perform utilitarian functions that well. These cars have just one purpose to serve – keep the occupants safe. However, with this estate, Skoda has provided us with a mix of both the worlds. It’s more like a niche of niche cars! Despite the heavy weight and super-strong build, the car provides the same cargo volume and almost the same engine performance.
On the flipside, the car is priced at a huge premium. To put things into perspective, the armored Superb is much more expensive than the tough-looking SUV - the Mercedes AMG E63 S Wagon; however, in case of an attack, the Mercedes won’t be as safe as the Superb Estate. This armored car is a wolf in sheep’s clothing, in a righteous way. Will we be seeing many of these on the roads, or will it turn out to be like any other ‘research project’ from an automaker? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.
References
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