Cars You Don’t Want to See (behind you): Ford Police Interceptor Utility

As fans of C.O.P.S. and the Die Hard series very well know (cue “Bad Boys” theme), Ford supplies most of the vehicles for the US police departments. As the venerable Crown Victoria nears the end of its production (cue “Amazing Grace”), the replacements are already being announced.

Following the new police sedan based on the Taurus, now comes the Police Interceptor Utility based on the 2011 Ford Explorer.

The interior will feature space for various police equipment, including firearms, computers, and perhaps an axe or two. A column shift will be standard, to free up console space. Ford’s voice-control Sync will be available, including activation for lights and sirens. Another essential feature: an easy-to-clean vinyl rear bench.

The new Interceptor Utility will have a complete set of safety features, from stability control to blind-spot monitor to curtain airbags. Like the outgoing Crown Victoria, the new vehicle will meet the 120 km/h rear-end crash test.

Power will be provided by a 3.5-liter V6 with “at least 280 horsepower”. A retuned six-speed automatic with lower initial gears gives better acceleration. It will reportedly deliver 20% better fuel economy than the Crown Vic’s V8. A water-cooled all-wheel drive system, larger brakes and radiator, heavy-duty alternator, and 18-inch wheels, make it suitable for non-stop police use.

Ford says the vehicle will be light, precise and easy to handle, requiring no special training to drive. Perfect for Philippine SWAT teams, then.