How Dodge Made its Durango Pursuit-Ready

The police fleet market has seen noticeable changes over the past few years. The traditional police car is going out of style as many agencies move into larger, more powerful vehicles. Two pursuit-rated sedan models have been discontinued in the past two years, as police fleets install more and more equipment in vehicles and SUVs grow in popularity.

In May, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. (FCA) followed the trend with a police version of its Dodge Durango. The 2019 Dodge Durango Pursuit is powered by a standard 3.6L Pentastar engine or by an available 5.7L Hemi V-8 engine with Fuel Saver Technology. It is also fitted with a full-time active all-wheel drive system.

Durango PPV vs. SSV

The Durango Pursuit is a new model, but it is not the only police SUV in FCA’s arsenal. The company has offered the Durango Special Service vehicle (SSV) since 2012. Although the Durango SSV was popular among police fleets, David Callery, program manager for police and emergency response vehicles, noted that the special service designation held the vehicle back.

“For many agencies, even though they like using the special service vehicle, they won’t really put it on the front lines until we, the manufacturer, deem it as a pursuit [model],” Callery explained.

So FCA went back to the drawing board to make the Durango Pursuit ready for patrol. For the Durango Pursuit, the top speed has been raised to 118 mph. It will feature a performance-tuned suspension, load-leveling NIVOMAT shocks, and front and rear stabilizer bars. The 2019 model will also feature a redesigned front fascia with integrated brake-cooling air ducts to accommodate the more aggressive driving commonly associated with pursuit vehicles.

Moving forward, the SSV will offer rear-wheel drive, and the Pursuit will offer all-wheel drive. Both models will feature new heavy-duty brakes. 

Despite the move into SUVs, FCA has made it clear: The Charger Pursuit isn’t going anywhere for the foreseeable future. It remains a leader in the police sedan market.

Durango Pursuit Key Features

➔     Available with a spot lamp wiring prep package, red/white auxiliary dome lamp, and an 800 cold cranking amp (CCA) battery on the V-8 model
➔     7,200-lb. towing capacity and available trailer tow
➔     Off-road capable, with 8.1 inches of ground clearance
➔     K-9 friendly tri-zone interior temperature control
➔     The longest wheelbase in the industry, 120 inches, for added stability and better handling.