And we do mean "high security." The big sedans provide ballistic protection levels VR7 and VR9 and are certified to BRV 2009 — which means the armored 7s can virtually withstand an assault from a small army.
The cars are fitted with reinforced protective steel armor in the doors, roof, pillars, front footwell and the wall separating the passenger and luggage compartments. The undercarriage gets special armor plating designed to provide extra protection from explosions.
The new bullet-resistant safety glazing — a full 2.4 inches thick — is not to be believed. It's a multilayer laminated glass "sandwich" with a polycarbonate layer inside to prevent glass shards from penetrating the cabin.
Of course, this being BMW, the armored 7s also receive reinforced shocks and suspension bits to help compensate for the extra weight. BMW claims the vehicle dynamics haven't changed that much. And thanks to the strapping 536-horsepower V12 engine under the hood of the 760Li High Security, mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox, performance hasn't suffered dramatically either. BMW claims 0-60-mph acceleration takes less than 6.2 seconds, while top speed on both V8 and 12-cylinder variants is limited to 130 mph.
But, wait, there's more: Depending on the buyer's special requirements, BMW offers a wide range of security-minded options and accessories, including an intercom system with concealed microphones and speakers, a roof beacon, LED flashers, an assault alarm, an onboard fire extinguisher, irritant-gas sensors and an internal fresh-air supply.
Embassies may also want to order a couple of those nifty fender-mounted flag holders, while special agents can opt for a gun case in the center console that can accommodate two machine guns.
And don't worry if you're too darn busy to drive the thing yourself. Just pack your chauffeur off to the special BMW security driver training program.
Inside Line says: In a world of IEDs and lingering uncertainties, isn't it comforting to know that BMW still cares? — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
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