Chevrolet Caprice Police Car Review – A Patrol Icon

For years, the Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle (PPV) served as a key player in law enforcement fleets across the country. Known for its fairly impressive power, spacious interior, and purpose-built design, the Caprice PPV became a favorite among officers and departments alike.

Built for a Tough Important Job

The Caprice PPV wasn’t just a civilian sedan with a flashy paint job. It was a specialized vehicle engineered to meet the rigorous demands of today’s police work. Chevrolet reintroduced the Caprice as a law enforcement-only model in 2011, borrowing the underpinnings from its Australian cousin, the Holden Caprice. This meant officers were getting a high-performance vehicle with plenty of room and durability to handle the toughest assignments.

• Powertrain: The Caprice PPV came with two engine options: a 3.6L V6 producing 301 horsepower and a 6.0L V8 delivering 355 horsepower. Both offered the speed and acceleration needed in high-pressure situations.
• Transmission: A smooth 6-speed automatic transmission made for some pretty seamless shifting, even during pursuit driving.
• Heavy-Duty Components: Reinforced suspension, upgraded brakes, and durable cooling systems ensured the Caprice could handle the extreme and contestant wear and tear of police duty.

A Comfortable Command Center

Police officers spend countless hours in their vehicles, so comfort and functionality are crucial. The Caprice PPV excelled in this area by offering a spacious interior designed with law enforcement needs in mind.

• Roomy Interior: The backseat provided ample space for transporting detainees, while the front had plenty of legroom for officers and space for a dozen donuts.
• Tech-Ready Cabin: The dashboard was configured to accommodate police-specific equipment like laptops, radios, and sirens.
• Ergonomics: Seats were built for all-day use, with materials that could withstand heavy wear.

Performance That Delivered

The Caprice PPV wasn’t just about utility; it was also a strong performer for a vehicle of this size. With the thirsty V8 engine option, it could go from 0 to 60 mph in merely 5.5 seconds.  This level of performance made it ideal for pursuits and rapid response scenarios. The rear-wheel-drive layout and sport-tuned suspension gave it admirable handling, allowing officers to navigate tight corners and challenging road conditions with confidence. Today’s police cruisers though often come with an AWD setup to ensure superior traction in all weather conditions.

Why It’s Remembered Fondly

Although the Caprice PPV was discontinued way back in 2017, it left a lasting impression. Its blend of decent power, space, and durability made it a favorite in law enforcement circles. Many retired Caprice PPVs have found second lives as civilian vehicles, prized for their performance capabilities and unique history.

Whether you’re admiring it for its engineering or its role in keeping communities safe, the Chevrolet Caprice PPV remains a fascinating chapter in the story of law enforcement vehicles. What do you think of it?  Should Chevrolet have discontinued the Caprice PPV or should it still be produced? Let us know your thoughts!