2006 Dodge Charger Police Cruiser

For almost as long as police officers have patrolled American highways, police cruisers have traditionally been big V8 powered, rear-wheel drive sedans. But since 1989, Chrysler group hasn’t had a suitable recruit, leaving the small but attention getting business to its Detroit rivals. Well now there’s a new sheriff in town. It’s the Dodge Charger Police Package, and it puts “protect and serve” back in the Mopar vocabulary. 

After years of Ford and Chevrolet dominating the police car ranks there’s a new law on the road.  Like a classic symbol of American muscle, the 2006 Dodge Charger Police Package is ready to be the next great crime fighting machine. The rear drive Police Charger has inducted two different civilian engines for two different patrol landscapes. 

The city-dwelling police units will likely opt for the 3.5 liter V-6, with 250 horses and 250 pound-feet of torque.

But it’s the expressway units that have the true need for speed.  For them, it’s the Charger R/T’s 5.7 liter Hemi V8, pumping out a chase-worthy 340 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque.

A high-output alternator and external oil coolers set this Charger apart even further.  No need for taxpayers to fret though - this Hemi handcuffs 4 of 8 cylinders while cruising to save fuel.

But when it’s time to shoot out of the hole, it’s all systems go.  Our Hemi cruiser fired from 0-60 in 6.1 seconds and smoked the quarter mile in 14.8 seconds at 97 miles per hour. This pursuit power is governed by traction control and a five-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. It shifts with authority, ready to endure the daily abuses of police driving.

And abuse it we did.  On the closed track of the Maryland Driver Training Facility for law enforcement, we pushed this police cruiser to its high performance limits. Feeling clearly large, the Charger aptly took command of the road. Attacking corners with precision, it stayed very flat with little body roll. Chassis feedback was excellent and the Charger’s ability to pursue became more evident.

Back at our home track, the Charger’s performance suspension continued to impress us with its agility and balance, while steering was quick with a solid weight behind it.

Like the SRT-8, the standard Electronic Stability Program has a higher threshold than the standard Charger, allowing more latitude during aggressive maneuvering. And heavy-duty brakes with ABS oversee the Charger’s 18-inch wheels and super sticky all-season tires.  Still, they averaged a slightly long 130 feet from 60 to 0.

Aesthetically, the Dodge Charger Police Package emits a definite intimidation factor. Its muscular physique gives it the look of a true enforcer.  But nothing evokes more anxiety than the popping strobes above its near fastback roofline.

Beyond its flesh, the police Charger’s low-style cabin is mindful that lawmen spend most of their days inside their vehicles.  So interior spaciousness, comfort, and fine ergonomics are also demanded.

Police add-ons such as a column mounted shifter and a spotlight make this Charger cop-friendly. Easy to reach light switches, an equipment mounting plate, and new electronic tie-in module will be welcomed inclusions. Amenities such as an optional 8-way Power Driver’s seat and standard CD stereo help to offset a police officer’s fatigue. Tire Pressure Monitoring and optional curtain airbags round out the safety systems.

While a “perp” will bend low to enter, the large rear seat can accommodate bad guys of almost any size.  And a smart vinyl floor covering makes for easy clean-up. A roomy trunk was designed to handle an arsenal of emergency equipment, and even includes a battery power feed.

So what’s the cost for this well-mobilized police unit?  Departments face a base sticker of $22,995. Our heavily-equipped tester rang in at $29,990, but that’s before any government discounts.

Drivers are accustomed to the familiar Ford and Chevy cop cars hiding around corners.  But don’t be surprised if you see a whole new silhouette in your rear-view mirror the next time you’re doing 40 in a 25.  The 2006 Dodge Charger Police Package is out to clean up the streets. (pause) And believe me, I know what I’m talking about.