Ford Debuts 2011 Explorer Based Police Interceptor Utility

Welcome to the next-generation Ford Explorer Pursuit, aka the Police Interceptor Utility. This, for lack of a better term, is the "wagon" version of the Taurus Interceptor. Got a 0.50-cal or a K-9? You're gonna be in this thing.

Designed to "complement the sedan", the Explorer Pursuit will be available for order next to the sedan when the Crown Vic finally passes away (so don't be shy about trying something new, 5-0!). It will also be 20% more efficient than the outgoing Panther-based cruiser.

Of Ford's first official police utility vehicle, Mark Fields says, "We understand today's police departments require adaptability. Ford is committed to remaining the nation's largest provider of police vehicles, and we're offering law enforcement officials a complete portfolio of options that are purpose-built, capable and delivered with the safety, technology and performance they need to excel at their jobs."

Much like its sedan counterpart (after all, the new Explorer is really more of a Taurus X), the Explorer Pursuit will come with Ford's 280-horsepower, E85-compatible 3.5-liter V6 and a 6-speed automatic. While not confirmed, we could possibly see an EcoBoost V6 down the line if departments request it.

Like current Ford police cars, as well as the upcoming Taurus Interceptor, it will be able to take a 75-mph hit to the rear and pack several airbags into that pending rollover. There's also curve control, which allows the car's computer to nanny drivers into a more practical turn by cutting vehicle speed by 10 mph.

According to Ford, the Utility incorporates a cop radiator and cop alternator, cop brakes, and 18-inch wheels as standard. Inside, seats are designed to handle utility belts while a column shifter provides plenty of space for computer/tech integration. Other than all the sedan's standard specs (including front- or all-wheel drive), the Explorer Pursuit also snags Roll Stability Control (RSC).

Is it a Chevy Tahoe SUV? No, but nowadays maybe it doesn't have to be.

By Phil Alex

Photo Gallery: Ford Police Interceptor Utility

NHTSA Opens Investigation on 2009 VW Jetta TDI Diesel Models

US government officials have launched an investigation into possible engine problems in the 2009 VW Jetta sedan and Sportwagen TDI diesel models. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said Tuesday it had received seven complaints on the aforementioned models alleging that while driving and without any warning, the engine limped and then stalled almost immediately.

NHTSA said on its website that "a Preliminary Evaluation has been opened to assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety consequences associated with the alleged defect."

According to the safety agency, approximately 37,889 diesel-powered VW Jetta sedan and estate cars might be involved. We'll update this story as soon as new information is available.