There’s a competition going on between the Detroit’s big three, GM – Ford – Chrysler, to see who makes a better Police Patrol Vehicle for the US law enforcement. And as it turns out, the Chevrolet Caprice from General Motors currently has the edge. In driving tests, the experts found the Caprice better than Ford Crown Victoria and Dodge Charger as it is faster from zero to 60 and zero to 100 miles per hour and stops in a shorter distance.

The Caprice PPV is powered by a 6.0-liter V-8 developing an estimated 355 horsepower (265 kW) with 384 lb-ft of torque (521 Nm). It comes with a performance-calibrated six-speed automatic gearbox, and standard Stabilitrak electronic stability control.  A unique Performance Algorithm Liftfoot (PAL) calibration, within Sport shift mode, allows the transmission to “understand” the driving conditions and select the appropriate gear – even through tight turns – and provides the required engine torque.

“Police departments around the country told us they needed a modern, high-performance rear-drive pursuit car,” said Joyce Mattman, GM Fleet and Commercial Operations product director.  “These results are proof that the Caprice PPV delivers the performance officers want, without compromising safety or comfort.”

Results from the tests from the Michigan State Police Evaluation Program are considered preliminary. Final results will be published later this year.

“I’m tickled to death to see all of the manufacturers back into (police cars) in a big way after a period of stagnation,” said Jerry Newberry, Fleet Manager for the Texas Department of Public Safety, which purchases 900-1,000 vehicles annually.  “It’s still a work in progress for all manufacturers, but that’s been the nice thing in the development of this Caprice – GM is doing what it takes to bring the best car to the market.”