With the phasing out of the long-lived and beloved police cruiser in the form of the Ford Crown Victoria, 2012 brought a new car into town via the Caprice PPV (Police Patrol Vehicle). This new incarnation of an old classic closely resembles a Pontiac G8 that went through a growth spurt. Longer, stronger, and dripping with adrenaline-pumping responsiveness, this new bad-guy chasing machine should have the boys in blue quickly drying their tears of mourning over the Crown Vic’s passing.
Key Features
The rear suspension and front struts are both beefed up, leading to a solid but zippy road feel that’s sure to put some pep in the step of the cops who get to cruise the highways in these cars. Two very respectable engines are available in the PPV – V6 and V8. The V8 can be intentionally hampered to prevent drifting displays. The shifter in this beauty is on the driver’s side of the center console, an improvement over some cruisers with awkward steering column placement.
Law enforcement level upgrades include auxiliary oil, transmission, and power-steering fluid coolers, bloated brake pads, 18” steel wheels, and specially calibrated stability control. The center console sports a large-screen touch interface.
What We Like
The manual transmission in the detective package – engineered for stealthier police work – would be a thrill to see in action. Two batteries, separated by an isolator, allow for powering of the bevy of electronic activity on the interior, while allowing for sure-fire starting power when it comes time for the chase. The 43” of rear legroom makes for comfortable stakeouts, although it’s severely impeded by the installation of the perp divider.
What Concerns Us
There’s not much to criticize about this PPV, except the possibility that some police departments may opt against it, and the sad news that there are no plans for a civilian version.
Available Models
There are two available engines in the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice PPV – a 3.6L V6 6-speed automatic (or automatic with manual shift mode) with 265 lb.-ft. of torque and 301 HP, and a 6.0L V8 with 384 lb.-ft. of torque and 355 HP.
Major Recalls
There is no available information on recalls for the 2012 Chevrolet Caprice PPV.
Common Issues
There are no reported complaints for this model.
