For years, the Dodge Charger Pursuit was the default choice for law enforcement agencies that wanted something faster than an SUV.
Now that the Charger is gone, police departments are scrambling for replacements.
New York State Police just made its choice, and it’s surprisingly cool.
The agency is adding 19 new Ford Mustang GT patrol cars to its fleet, giving troopers a new weapon against aggressive drivers and highway speeders.
One Is Already On Patrol
According to reports, one Mustang is already active in Troop G in New York’s Capital Region.
The remaining 18 cars are currently being outfitted with:
- Emergency lighting
- Police radios
- Patrol hardware
- Department-specific equipment
Once completed, they’ll be deployed across the state.
No, These Aren’t Shelby GT500s
Some early reports claimed New York was buying Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 models. That’s not true.
These are standard S650-generation Ford Mustang GT coupes, which honestly makes far more sense.
They still pack serious performance:
- 5.0-liter Coyote V8
- 486 horsepower
- 415 lb-ft of torque
- Rear-wheel drive
- Top speed of roughly 155 mph
That’s more than enough to chase down reckless drivers.
Why Not Just Use SUVs?
Because SUVs are heavier, slower, and more expensive. According to the department, these Mustangs cost roughly 30% less than fully equipped patrol SUVs.
They’re also better suited for highway enforcement, where acceleration and top-end speed matter more.
That doesn’t mean Ford Explorer Police Interceptor models are disappearing, they’ll still handle most day-to-day duties.
The Charger Left A Big Hole
The death of the Dodge Charger Pursuit created a major problem for police departments.
There simply aren’t many affordable rear-wheel-drive V8 sedans left.
That’s why agencies in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Virginia, and Indiana have also started adding Ford Mustang GT patrol cars to their fleets.
Seeing A Mustang In Your Mirror Would Be Terrifying
Let’s be honest. A marked Mustang sitting behind you at 90 mph is significantly more intimidating than spotting a bulky SUV two lanes over, and that’s exactly why New York bought them.
The Charger may be gone, but police pursuit cars just got interesting again.