Armoured vehicle specialist SVI Engineering has released a list of its ten most frequently armoured vehicles, based on customer demand over the past several years. The ranking, drawn from the company’s internal data, reflects trends in both personal security and commercial protection, with most models based on high-selling vehicles in South Africa.
Nine of the ten vehicles feature ladder-frame construction, a design typically preferred for armouring due to its structural strength. Only one unibody model made the list.
According to Nicol Louw, SVI’s Business Development Director, the company fields daily enquiries about armouring options. “While we occasionally accommodate niche models – such as a Maserati Levante – we typically recommend proven platforms. This streamlines development and reduces build time,” Louw said.
1. Toyota Hilux
South Africa’s top-selling vehicle also leads in armouring popularity. The locally built Hilux is widely armoured across civilian and commercial sectors. SVI offers B2 partial, B4 discreet, and B6 discreet armour, along with its Stopgun V2.0 package, a semi-discreet system used extensively in the security and mining industries. SVI is an authorised converter under Toyota’s commercial vehicle programme.
2. Ford Ranger
Also produced in South Africa, the Ranger is a core product for SVI. Armouring options include B2 partial, B4, and B6 discreet packages, along with the Stopgun V3.0 kit. SVI’s Ford Pro Converter approval ensures full warranty and maintenance coverage for converted vehicles.
3. Toyota Fortuner
Built alongside the Hilux, the Fortuner remains a consistent choice for clients seeking an armoured SUV. It is available with B2, B4, and B6 solutions, and is expected to see continued demand with newer derivatives like the GR-Sport.
4. Toyota Land Cruiser 300 / Lexus LX
The Land Cruiser 300, which replaced the LC200, is a frequent subject of SVI conversions. Clients can choose from B2, B4, and B6 armour levels, with an optional luxury rear-seat configuration. The Lexus LX, sharing the same platform, offers a more premium alternative.
5. Volkswagen Amarok
Built by Ford at its Silverton plant, the second-generation Amarok shares architecture with the Ranger. SVI quickly adapted its systems to this model, offering full B4 and B6 discreet packages and B2 partial armour.
6. Ford Everest
The body-on-frame Everest SUV is armoured with the same range of packages as the Ranger. Warranty and service plan coverage is retained due to SVI’s approval in Ford’s converter programme.
7. Toyota Land Cruiser 79
A long-time favourite for heavy-duty applications, the Land Cruiser 79 has grown in popularity due to recent drivetrain upgrades. SVI offers B2, B4, and B6 packages, plus a Stopgun V2.0 Plus variant with enhanced protection features.
8. Mercedes-Benz V-Class
The only unibody and people-mover on the list, the V-Class is available with B2 and B4 discreet armour. As an approved Mercedes-Benz VanPartner, SVI ensures the converted vehicle retains factory support.
9. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
The recently launched J250-series Prado quickly earned a spot on the list. It supports B2, B4, and B6 discreet armouring. SVI expects interest to extend to the related Lexus GX in the near future.
10. Nissan Patrol
Despite being discontinued in South Africa, the Y62 Patrol remains popular among SVI’s clients. The SUV’s ladder-frame chassis and 5.6-litre V8 make it well-suited for armouring. Available kits include B2, B4, and B6, with an optional SVI-designed bullbar.
SVI’s list reflects a clear preference for robust, ladder-frame vehicles capable of accommodating a variety of ballistic protection levels. The company expects ongoing demand as security concerns continue to shape vehicle purchasing decisions across multiple sectors.
