Ford Unveils Explorer-Based 2016 Police Interceptor Utility

Following the consistent makeover of the 2016 Explorer, Ford has also updated the Police Interceptor Utility, which is based on the popular SUV.

Set to debut officially at the Chicago Auto Show tomorrow, the 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility features the refreshed styling of the Explorer, as well as a new instrument panel, an enhanced electrical system, custom-developed brakes and a heavy-duty suspension. Obviously, police-specific features form the core of the vehicle.

Built at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant, the police SUV gets new features for 2016 such as the available Surveillance Mode technology, which warns the driver when someone approaches the rear of the vehicle. Upon detection, the driver’s window automatically raises and all doors lock.

Ford also added a liftgate release switch, accessible to occupants in the front, which allows the rear liftgate mechanism to remain unlocked for 45 seconds before timing out, allowing officers to access the cargo area.

A rear camera with washer combined with a 4-inch screen in the center stack are standard for the 2016 model. Optionally, the view from the camera can be seen in the rearview mirror.

Power comes from a standard 3.7-liter V6 engine producing 304hp and 279lb-ft (378Nm) of torque, but Ford also offers an available 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 that delivers 365hp and 350lb-ft (474Nm) of torque. All Police Interceptor Utilities are offered as standard with all-wheel drive.

Both engines on offer are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that features a unique Pursuit Mode specifically programmed for law enforcement use. The transmission automatically switches from normal, fuel-saving operation to Pursuit Mode when it detects aggressive driving situations, based on brake line pressure, deceleration and lateral acceleration rates.