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2003 Chrysler Intrepid Police Cruiser Road Test

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Khatir Soltani
If my signature was going on the bottom line I'd order the Intrepid with the Special Police Pursuit Package - sales code AHB. This adds a further suspension and brake upgrade as well as a 100-amp lead to the rooftop light port, another 100-amp lead to the trunk, a dome light deactivator and a rear door latch deactivator. What else? An emergency rear door override, dual spot lamp pre-wire, bright hubcaps and a really cool stealth mode that turns off all the lights while the vehicle is on - just like the big domestic car of my youth that I often used to roll down my parents driveway undetected at 4AM. The Intrepid however also turns off the instrument panel, radio and indicators while leaving the brake lights functional.

How about safety issues? Chrysler uses a high-density polyethylene fuel tank positioned forward of the rear axle. That's not only safer from puncture than cars with rear tanks but also contributes to better weight distribution, and therefore improved handling. ABS brakes are optional as is a traction control system incorporating a defeat feature. Dual spot lamps and full wheel covers are also on the options list. As well fleet managers will appreciate an available all vehicle remote. They'll also appreciate the fuel economy. The Intrepid achieves a very commendable 10.9 L/100 km combined city/highway rating.

The only rub is that the majority of us won't be able to enjoy this hopped up Intrepid - the defeat features and stealth mode might give us an unfair advantage escaping a speeding ticket. Hopefully though, this article will help you to feel more comfortable knowing that the good guys will be much more capably equipped to catch the bad guys. Comfortable I suppose, unless you're one of the bad guys.
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 8 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada