The Arsenal won't win any beauty contests, but it might save your life.
June 19, 2024 at 20:22
Michael Gauthier
- Rezvani has truly outdone itself with the Arsenal, a beastly armored SUV based on the Cadillac Escalade.
- Sporting a 6.2-liter V8 with up to 700 horsepower, this isn't your run-of-the-mill luxury ride.
- Its Military Edition Package features bulletproof glass, body armor, and even a smoke screen for evading danger.
The Cadillac Escalade is undoubtedly a definitive figure in American luxury vehicles. Known for its grand presence and opulent features, it’s an SUV that commands attention. Enter Rezvani, a name synonymous with creating some of the most extreme and militarized vehicles available to the public. Their latest creation, the Arsenal, is nothing short of extraordinary, transforming the traditionally suave Escalade into a rolling fortress.
The Rezvani Arsenal retains the Cadillac Escalade’s core, but its exterior undergoes a radical redesign. According to Rezvani, the goal was to adopt a “more minimalist style than the usual extreme designs” seen in their other vehicles. Despite these claims, the front end, which draws inspiration from the Ram 1500 TRX, gives the Arsenal an unmistakable aggressive stance. The sides and rear feature angular, edgy bodywork that’s paired with 22-inch wheels wrapped in beefy 35-inch tires, completing its tough new look.
An Invincible Interior
While the exterior screams ruggedness, the interior continues to offer the luxury associated with the Escalade. Rezvani ensures that while you're encased in this armored behemoth, you don’t sacrifice comfort. The Arsenal is available in both seven- and eight-seat configurations, making it as versatile as it is secure. Heated front and second-row seats keep everyone comfortable, and the heated steering wheel ensures warm hands on chilly days.
The signature Cadillac technology remains, with a curved OLED display that integrates a 7.2-inch driver information center, a 14.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 16.9-inch infotainment system. Your journeys will be accompanied by a remarkable sound system courtesy of 19 speakers provided by AKG, and a wireless smartphone charger ensures your devices are always ready for use. All of these luxuries sit beneath a panoramic roof that brings in an abundance of natural light.
Armor Up: Military Edition Package
Of course, the most significant modification is the Military Edition Package. This package transforms the Arsenal from a luxurious SUV into a veritable tank on wheels. Bulletproof glass and body armor come standard, and for those requiring even more protection, Rezvani offers optional composite armor rated to B6 levels. This advanced armor is significantly lighter than traditional ballistic steel but still provides formidable protection against high-powered rifles like the AR15 and AK47.
However, the Military Edition Package doesn’t stop at armoring. The reinforced suspension ensures the vehicle can handle rough terrains, while electromagnetic pulse protection safeguards the vehicle’s electronics from digital threats. Additional security features include run-flat tires, a smoke screen for making quick getaways, a pepper spray dispenser, and electrified door handles that deliver a shock to anyone daring enough to touch them uninvited. Adding cherry on top are the thermal night vision system, a full intercom set, and blinding lights designed to disorient potential threats.
Performance and Production
Under the hood, the options are just as impressive. Standard models come with a 6.2-liter V8 delivering 420 horsepower. For those hungry for more power, a 3.0-liter turbodiesel inline-six offers an alternative, but the real kicker is the optional supercharged 6.2-liter V8, pumping out a staggering 700 horsepower. With such an engine, the Arsenal isn't just about surviving; it's about dominating whatever dares to challenge it.
Given the extensive modifications and the high levels of security features, the production of the Arsenal is understandably limited. Only 100 units will be made, with prices starting at a hefty $225,000. Interested buyers can secure their piece of this armored luxury with a refundable $500 deposit. With Rezvani's reputation for creating formidable, high-performance machines, the Arsenal is likely to join their lineup of legends.