The Dodge Charger Pursuit is used by agencies around the country, including California Highway Patrol. Photo courtesy of FCA
Law enforcement vehicles have a lot of expectations. Officers need something that can accommodate police equipment, last through long patrol shifts, and move quickly in a pursuit. The newest round of police vehicles from Chevrolet, Dodge, and Ford add power, stealth, and comfort to patrol, with a variety of unique features designed specifically for police officers.
It has been five years since the Ford Crown Victoria was discontinued, and the patrol vehicles on the market today offer a wide array of options to meet law enforcement’s needs, whether agencies are looking for a low-profile sedan, durable SUV, or powerful pursuit vehicle.
Dodge Charger Pursuit
The Charger Pursuit comes in three models for 2017: the Charger Pursuit V-6, V-8, and V-8 all-wheel-drive (AWD).
The V-6 offers 292 hp, 260 lb.-ft. of torque, and E-85 flex-fuel capacity as well as an EPA-estimated 26 mpg highway. The V-8 and V-8 AWD deliver 370 hp, 395 lb.-ft. of torque, and an estimated 25 mpg highway for the V-8 and 23 mpg highway for the V-8 AWD. The V-8 AWD system also includes an active-transfer case and front-axle disconnect system to improve real-world fuel economy.
One of the newest features for 2017 is the Uconnect 12.1 system, which integrates law enforcement needs with Uconnect touchscreen technology for improved safety and comfort. The 12.1-inch screen is built into the Charger Pursuit’s instrument panel, offering less bulk and more interior space than a console-mounted third-party solution. It has been tested to withstand extreme conditions as low as -40°F and as high as 185°F. It also allows for quick toggling between vehicle controls and nearly every plug-and-play police-designed computer system that can be stowed in the trunk.
The integrated Uconnect touchscreen in the Dodge Charger Pursuit saves space inside of the vehicle. Photo courtesy of FCA
The steering wheel includes remappable auxiliary buttons that can be programmed to operate aftermarket police equipment. Dodge also offers a number of factory-installed Mopar upfit equipment items, including National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Level III+ ballistic door panels for driver and passenger doors.
Additional features include performance-tuned suspension, load-leveling NIVOMAT shocks, 14.5-inch front and 13.8-inch rear pursuit-rated brake package, front- and rear-stabilizer bars, 18-inch performance tires on steel wheels, and two-mode electronic stability control.
Key Features for 2017:
New Uconnect 12.1 touchscreen built into instrument panel
Black cloth or black vinyl interior options
Factory-installed Mopar upfit packages
Three-year, 36,000-mile warranty
The Chevrolet Caprice PPV V-8 delivers a top speed of 155 mph. Photo courtesy of GM
Chevrolet Caprice PPV
Editor's Note: Chevrolet has ceased production of the Caprice PPV. Orders for the 2017 model closed in February.
The Chevrolet Caprice Police Pursuit Vehicle (PPV) is equipped with a standard 3.6L V-6 and available 6.0L V-8. The Caprice PPV features a six-speed automatic transmission; heavy-duty, four-wheel disc brakes with a police-calibrated antilock system; and fuel-efficient power steering.
New standard features include full-size spare tire, vinyl rear seats (with cloth seats no longer available), and limited-slip differential with the V-6 model.
The center console offers a platform for mounting computers and other equipment, and special surveillance mode offers a light cut-off feature for undercover work. The vehicle comes with the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system, including a 7-inch color touchscreen. The touchscreen also offers a number of customizable features.
The Chevrolet Caprice PPV features a standard V-6 or available V-8 engine. Photo courtesy of GM
Additional features include Bluetooth connectivity, standard remote vehicle starter and remote keyless entry, and a spacious interior. Both the V-6 and V-8 models are E-85 compatible.
Key Features for 2017:
Full-size spare tire and vinyl rear seat standard
Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system
Limited-slip differential standard with V-6
The 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe PPV comes in a variety of colors including slate gray, which was introduced last year. Photo courtesy of GM
Chevrolet Tahoe PPV
The Chevrolet Tahoe Police Pursuit Vehicle (PPV) features a 5.3L V-8 engine and optional 4WD capability and a pursuit-capable suspension that works on paved roads and rough terrain.
The fully integrated electrical system makes the aftermarket installation of light bars and police radios simple. Black assist steps and auxiliary battery come standard for police. Additional police options include a headlamp/tail lamp flash system, and left- and right-hand spot lamps. It is the only police vehicle with body on frame.
Front seats on the Chevrolet Tahoe PPV offer enhanced ergonomics for a more comfortable ride for officers. Photo courtesy of GM
A 4.2-inch driver information display offers infotainment and other data. Additional standard features include rear-vision cameras, backup sensors, cruise control, rubberized vinyl floor, and remote keyless entry. Carpeted floor covering, wiring for grille lights and siren, and inoperative inside rear door handles, locks, and windows are also available.
Key Features for 2017:
4WD capability
Fully integrated electrical system
Body on frame for durability and ease of repair
New silent mode in the Ford Police Interceptor sedan turns off courtesy lights, cluster and center stack lighting, and daytime running lights. Photo courtesy of Ford
Ford Police Interceptor Sedan
The 2017 Police Interceptor Sedan and Utility will be the first pursuit-rated police vehicles to offer NIJ Level IV ballistic protection against armor-piercing rifle ammunition.
Ford’s new engine idle feature allows officers to keep the car running and ready to go, even when the key is removed from the ignition.
The new police silent mode is similar to Ford’s dark car feature introduced with the 2016 model. In addition to turning off courtesy lights, welcome/farewell, and cluster/center stack lighting, the new silent mode also turns off daytime running lights, allowing officers to keep a low profile.
The front seats of the Ford Police Interceptor sedan are upholstered with heavy-duty cloth and designed to provide lumbar support for officers on long shifts. Photo courtesy of Ford
Introduced in late 2016 models, the red/white overhead dome lamp is now LED. The sedan uses new special police service tires and is E-85 compatible. It is also available in a variety of colors.
Key Features for 2017
NIJ Level IV ballistic protection
Engine idle feature
Silent mode
The 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility is equipped with police-calibrated intelligent AWD, standard for all Police Interceptor models. Photo courtesy of Ford
Ford Police Interceptor Utility
Like the PI Sedan, Ford’s PI Utility offers ballistic protection, police silent mode, and engine idle.
For agencies seeking a more low-profile appearance than a traditional light bar, the optional front interior visor light bar is integrated into the top of the windshield. When activated, the light flashes alternating red and blue bars or can be programmed for red/red or blue/blue operation. It also offers white “take down” and “scene” lights.
New rear spoiler traffic warning lights feature red, blue, and amber LEDs encased within smoked lenses. Inside the vehicle, the overhead red/white dome lamp now uses LED lights.
The new optional front interior visor light bar on the Ford Police Interceptor Utility flashes bright, alternating red and blue bars on top of the windshield. Photo courtesy of Ford
The PI Utility has been redesigned for efficiency. Door panel switches can lock and unlock all doors and rear lift gate, eliminating the overhead console lift gate unlock. The Power Distribution Lug has also been repositioned to allow easier access for upfitting.
Key Features for 2017:
NIJ Level IV ballistic protection
Silent and engine idle features
Low-profile lighting options
