Michigan outlaws beware: State Police is getting ready to add another weapon in its armory, or rather two: the Ford Taurus Police Interceptor Sedan and the Explorer Police Interceptor Utility, which today passed the two-day State Police tests and are ready to enter service.

Although the Taurus Interceptor was tested just as thoroughly, it was the Explorer SUV Utility version that received most of the attention.

According to Ford, not only did it outperform its direct rival, the Chevrolet Tahoe, but it also stood its ground among other saloon models in 0-60mph acceleration, handling and braking tests.

“We are pleased that the performance of the Police Interceptor Utility was validated because it provides more choice for law enforcement agencies,” said Police Interceptors’ marketing manager Lisa Teed. “They can be assured that whether in slippery conditions like snow or in pursuit situations the purpose-built Utility will deliver.”

Both vehicles come equipped with four-wheel drive as standard. The Explorer is powered by a 3.5-liter flex-fuel V6 with 300HP and the Crown Victoria-replacing Taurus sedan with either a flex-fuel 3.5-liter V6 or a 365HP twin-turbocharged V6.

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