Issue link: http://pfmmag.epubxp.com/i/113376
...First Impressions (Ed. Note: Tis is Part 1 of our hands-on coverage of the new Ford Police Interceptor Sedan. In this issue, we cover the advanced technology, interior ergonomics, and safety features of the base 3.5L PI Sedan. In the March/April issue, we will cover the new 3.7L V6 and All Wheel Drive.) F ront-line police ofcers will notice some diferences as they transition from the current Ford CVPI to the NextGen Police Interceptor Sedan. We already know the new PI Sedan with the base 3.5L V6 is as fast as the V8-powered CVPI, and that it is even faster when powered by the optional 3.7L V6. We already know the new PI Sedan handles like it is on rails, and the standard AWD can cope with any weather. However, what will the ofcers see and feel when they get inside it? What will those frst impressions from patrol ofcers be? drill holes and install the lights later. Big Differences Tree impressions stand out as the most prominent initial diferences between the CVPI and PI Sedan: smaller interior dimensions, reduced rear visibility, and less trunk space. All these diferences can be mitigated by the use of technology, driver training, or just seat time. Tey are simply diferences offcers who have been using a CVPI for years will immediately key on and talk about. None vides the driver with a wraparound feeling of a cockpit. Everything is within arms��� reach of the driver with HVAC and multimedia controls up higher than the CVPI. Yes, the larger ofcers will feel a little tight, but the actual interior room on the new PI Sedan is closer to the old CVPI than it frst appears. While the legroom is virtually identical, the foot box (foot well) is a bit tight, i.e., the wheel well-dead pedal does take up a bit of space. However, the headroom, shoulder room and hip room are actually very similar Offcer Safety Ford���s Police Advisory Board gave clear direction to the Ford Police Program Team that safety was the primary objective of these vehicles. Ford delivered. Te 75 mph rear crash rating from the body-on-frame CVPI was maintained by the new PI Sedan. Ford also integrated the latest technology in these new Interceptors with optional SYNC, BLISS, Reverse Sense and Rear View Camera. In terms of both safety and control, All Wheel Drive is standard on the PI Sedan. This AWD system integrates with EPAS (Electronic Power Assist Steering), Traction Control, ABS, and AdvanceTrac (electronic stability control). While some ofcers question the loss of the body-on-frame CVPI, the new unibody Dplatform shared by both the PI Sedan and PI Utility actually has improved safety. Te new sedan and crossover has been engineered for even better front impact, side impact, rollover and roof crush ratings. Boron steel is located in many key areas of these vehicles. By the way, it is this boron steel A-pillar that requires the pillar-mounted spotlights to be installed at the factory, instead of an aftermarket upftter. Drilling through boron steel on an angle requires a jig and a very expensive drill bit, never mind trying to miss the A-pillar mounted airbags. If you need the pillar-mounted spotlights, order them from the factory. For all practical purposes, you cannot p The wraparound cockpit is easy to get used to. The recessed universal top tray allows airbagcompatible mounting locations for aftermarket devices. The column-mounted shifter could be a bit shorter to prevent interference with IP features and upftted components. are show-stoppers. Te frst thing you will notice when you get inside the PI Sedan is the new cockpit design and the wraparound feel compared to the CVPI. Te beltline of the PI Sedan is higher, which makes the side glass smaller. Te perception may be the interior space is at a premium. Te reality is that the instrument panel (IP) is a newer design and therefore pro- to the CVPI. Te use of power adjustable pedals (standard), power six-way driver���s seat (standard), and the tilt-telescoping steering wheel (standard) will all assist in improving ofcer comfort. Keep in mind Ford builds the PI Sedan for the average ofcer, the majority of ofcers, but not all possible ofcer sizes. Of course, if more room is needed, the Police Interceptor www.pfmmag.com 49