AUBURN, CA - The Placer County (Calif.) Sheriff’s Department has started to phase in the Chevrolet Tahoe two-wheel drive SUV, replacing its Ford Crown Victoria fleet, according to a release from the Sheriff.

Deputies have had a chance to drive the Tahoes on a test track, and their reactions were overwhelmingly positive, the release stated. The Sheriff’s release also commented on the Tahoe’s superior handling, large cargo area, more power, and better fuel economy.

The Sheriff’s Department chose the Tahoe after testing other vehicles for the price, larger cargo area, and its suitability for Placer County’s varied terrain.

The department was able to purchase the vehicles at a lower price than they had been paying in the past. The Tahoes were purchased for $26,209, the Fords for $28,348.

Phasing the Chevy Tahoe into the fleet to replace both the Crown Victorias and the Expeditions will standardize the department’s entire fleet. The patrol vehicles and equipment will be the same from Tahoe to South Placer.