Chrysler is releasing a special version of it's Dodge Durango geared to police and fire forces.
Just like it's civilian counterpart, the new Durango sport utility vehicle comes standard with a paddle-shifted eight speed transmission, which promises a 15 percent improvement over the previous Durango model.
The 2014 Special Service Dodge Durango has been specifically designed for the extra demands and rigors placed on it in the line of duty. It features heavy duty components that can hold up under extreme use and high mileage usage. It comes with a pore powerful battery, a heavy duty brake package, load levelling suspension, higher-output 220 volt alternator, and a more robust water pump and engine oil cooler, which will help the vehicle to withstand high speed pursuits. The SUV is also built to handle the weight of very heavy gear and equipment that is often required on the job. A beefed up electrical system will handle all of the vehicle's computers, lights, sirens and cameras, something a typical 12-volt system simply isn't up to.
The Durango's third row of seating can be removed, making way for more equipment, police dog or suspects. Five and eight inch Uconnect touch screens will feature custom programming.
Engine options will include the impressive Pentastar V6 or the more powerful HEMI V8. While the HEMI delivers 360 hp, it's lack of fuel economy may be off-putting to municipalities.
Said Peter Grady, head of fleet operations for Chrysler: “The 2014 Dodge Durango Special Service model is a state-of-the-art resource for fleet customers.”
Other vehicles offered by Chrysler to government fleet customers are the Dodge Charger Pursuit sedan and the RAM 1500 Special Service truck. The Charger Pursuit is the fastest police car in the U.S. Chrysler is hoping that the Durango will be the most versatile.
The >2014 Special Service Dodge Durango does have a challenge ahead of it. For nearly 20 years the police car market has been dominated by Ford's Crown Victoria. Still, now that there is a greater variety in the segment, police services are enjoying the choices offered and may be eager to explore other choices.
This version of the Durango will be assembled in Detroit, with production set to begin during the fourth quarter of 2013.
By Linda Aylesworth - autoExpert.ca