Ford discontinued the civilian version of the Explorer last year, but you can still get one. You just have to show your badge.
Deliveries of the Explorer-based 2025 Ford Police Interceptor are underway and it is being offered in hybrid and non-hybrid versions.
The updated model can be ordered with either a 3.3-liter V6-based hybrid powertrain rated at 318 hp, a 3.3-liter V6 rated at 285 hp or a 400 hp 3.0-liter turbocharged V6.
Ford said it stopped selling the retail version of the Explorer hybrid in order to help meet the strong demand from law enforcement customers.
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One advantage the hybrid has is that it can power onboard systems without the engine running for a period of time. There’s even a feature that lets officers take the keys with them and lock the vehicle, but leave the power for the accessories on.
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All Police Interceptor Utilities are pursuit-rated and have a pursuit mode that switches the drivetrain into a high performance configuration. Ballistic panels are available with protection for up to .30-caliber armor-piercing rifle rounds. The interior electronics and switches are set up for integrating police equipment.
High-tech safety gear includes a perimeter alert that uses the vehicle’s 360-degree sensors and cameras to alert occupants of approaching people and vehicles. The tailgate lock is also on a timer that’s started by pressing a button in the front seat and automatically relocks if a second button on the tailgate isn’t pressed within 45 seconds.
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Available ballistic panels can be added to the front door panels that provide level III+ or IV+ protection. Level III+ can help resist many handgun and non-armor-piercing bullets up to .30 caliber, while level IV+ panels provide protection against up to .30-caliber armor-piercing rifle ammunition.
Pricing for the Police Interceptor Utility varies, but the retail 2025 Explorer starts at $41,220.