Dodge Unveils Prototype of Its New Charger Police Cruiser

Dodge has shown off a prototype of its upcoming Charger Police Pursuit Vehicle, signaling the return of the Mopar patrol car after the previous generation retired. The new cop car, expected to reach fleets by around 2027, was recently displayed to law-enforcement fleet professionals in Daytona.

0-liter inline-six engine, though specific output details haven't been released. Unlike older police sedans, this model features a hatchback layout, offering more flexibility for carrying communication gear, first-aid supplies, and other equipment. The standard all-wheel drive is expected to be useful in areas with harsh weather.

The article notes that modern police cars no longer include cigarette lighters, a nod to a famous complaint from The Blues Brothers. While some may wish for a V-8, the fleet-friendly choice likely means a more fuel-efficient engine running on regular octane, possibly not the high-output version of the Hurricane six-cylinder.

The Charger PPV will need to meet various enforcement requirements, including equipment racking and seat ergonomics, police seats typically have minimal bolstering to accommodate utility belts. When it arrives, it will be the only police-specification sedan available, facing competition from crossovers that have become popular with many departments since the Ford Taurus was discontinued.

Fleet managers tend to be budget-conscious, but the appeal of a true Mopar patrol car may be hard to resist.