The Golan MRAP provides protection against mines, improved explosive devices, RPGs, small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. Rafael claims, that Golan's design accounts approximately 50% of weight for protection. This MRAP vehicle has a V-shaped hull and floating floor. Suspension is linked directly to the armored structure to absorb the deformations generated by mines and IEDs. The Golan is fitted with passive and explosive reactive armor, depending on protection level. The same modular ERA armor is used on the Bradley vehicles. An interesting feature of the Golan is that it has an external rather than internal spall liner. It is used to prevent penetration rather than to minimize damage, once a penetration has accrued. An additional internal liner is optional. Windows are covered with slat armor. Vehicle is fitted with automatic fire suppression system. An NBC protection system is offered as an option.

There are three protection levels of the Golan. Base protection level provides mine resistance and protection against 7.62-mm armor-piercing rounds. It is claimed that the Golan MRAP can withstand 7 km mine blasts under belly and 14 kg under any wheel. Intermediate level has heavier tiles and protects from 14.5-mm armor piercing rounds and 20-mm projectiles. Maximum protection level includes explosive reactive armor and can withstand RPG rounds. These three protection levels can be configured in the field conditions. Furthermore vehicle with different protection levels has the same silhouette, because armor tiles have identical outer shape. Because of this feature it is hard to selectively target vehicles with weaker protection.

Vehicle is armed with remotely controlled weapon station, armed with machine guns, cannons or even missiles. Occupants enter and leave the vehicle through the rear ramp or roof hatches. There are a number of firing ports and observation windows provided for the troops.

Vehicle is powered by a Cummins diesel engine, developing 315 hp. All automotive components are American, including the engine. The Golan is fitted with a central tyre inflation system and run flat tyres.