2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility arrives in Chicago [Images]

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2016 Ford Explorer – Police Interceptor Utility

Take a look at the 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility (the PIU?). This latest police utility vehicle from Ford will make its official debut at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show on Feb 12th, 2015. Either watch out for this in your rear-view mirrors, or be thankful that it’s here.

It’s based on the face-lifted 2016 Ford Explorer that was unveiled at the 2014 LA Auto Show. The police version is appropriately beefed up and comes with a choice of two engines: the 3.7L naturally aspirated V6 with 304 horsepower and 279 lb-ft of torque, or the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with 365 horses and 350 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with all-wheel-drive and the 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2.3L EcoBoost from the Explorer did not make the cut.

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The steering and suspension components are reinforced for more extreme usage. The transmission has an automatic “Pursuit Mode”. When it senses aggressive throttle application, the transmission changes character to a performance mapping and firmer gear changes. The gear shifter is column mounted to allow more space for the additional controls on the center console.

It also has an interesting “Surveillance Mode”, which assists the officers in a stake-out situation. If the system senses someone approaching from behind, all windows will roll all the way up and doors will automatically lock.

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Watch this insider TFLcar video of the 2016 Ford Explorer reveal from Los Angeles.  And stay tuned for LIVE coverage of the 2015 Chicago Auto Show from TFLcar.com.