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New for 2012

• 3.6L V-6 engine (LFX) with an estimated 302 horsepower (225 kW) and E85 capability
• 170-amp alternator
• Six-speed automatic transmission
• Seventeen-inch wheels
• 2.44 axle ratio
• StabiliTrak stability control includes performance mode and traction control

Highlights

The Chevrolet Impala PPV (police patrol vehicle) receives a performance upgrade for 2012, with a new, more-powerful 3.6L V-6, six-speed automatic transmission and 17-inch wheels. StabiliTrak stability control is new for 2012 and includes performance mode and traction control.

The 3.6L “LFX” engine is rated at 302 horsepower (225 kW) – a 31-percent increase over the previous 3.9L V-6. Its features include direct injection, continuously variable valve timing and E85 capability. Although the new engine packs more than 70 more horsepower, its efficiency-enhancing features and its pairing with the fuel-saving six-speed automatic mean it retains good fuel economy.

For 2012, the Impala PPV is available in police patrol or undercover police packages, offering large-car utility with midsize agility, along with power, roominess and style.  Police-specific equipment includes speed-rated tires; battery run-down protection; plug and play electrical wiring harnesses; and lockout protection, which prevents the power door locks from locking the driver's door when the keys are in the ignition.

Impala exterior features

• Daytime running lamps and automatic headlamps are standard.
• Daytime running lamps and automatic headlamps can be deleted.
• Flashing light system for headlamps and taillamps is available.
• Spotlamps and spotlamp provisions are available.
• Exterior color choices include: Black, Summit White, Silver Ice Metallic, Gold Mist Metallic and Victory Red.

Impala interior details and features

• Bucket seats with high-density foam, six-way power adjustment and seatback security panel.
• Air conditioning is standard.
• AM/FM stereo with CD player is standard.
• Inoperable inside rear door handles, door locks and windows are available.
• Cruise control is standard.
• Common fleet key system is available.
• “Certified” speedometer is standard.
• Flashing trunk lid warning lamps are available.
• Auxiliary dome light is available.
• Dome light and courtesy light made inoperative are available.
• Remote keyless entry is standard.
• Remote vehicle starting system is available.
• Lamp, horn and siren wiring packages are available.
• Jet Black is the standard interior color.

Impala Police performance

The new LFX3.6L V-6 becomes the standard engine in the 2012 Impala Police, replacing the previous 3.9L engine and delivering 31-percent more horsepower.

The 302-horsepower (225 kW) LFX is a 60-degree design, with the cylinder block and cylinder heads cast in aluminum for low weight. A forged steel crankshaft provides optimal strength in the bottom end, while the cylinder heads include four valves per cylinder, with a dual overhead camshaft design incorporating infinitely variable cam phasing.

Additionally, optimized-flow fuel injectors and the integrated exhaust manifolds/cylinder heads promote lower emissions. The LFX’s composite intake manifold also has a comparatively small radiated surface area to help it maintain excellent noise and vibration characteristics that are comparable to an aluminum manifold.

The 3.6L engine is backed by a new six-speed automatic transmission that is performance-calibrated for police duty.

Additional powertrain and vehicle system features include:

• 2.44 axle ratio.
• 170-amp high-output alternator.
• Engine oil, transmission and power steering coolers.
• Seventeen-inch wheels replace the 2011 models’ 16-inch wheels.
• Goodyear P235/55R17 W rated tires

Optimal vehicle handling is assured by Impala's four-wheel independent suspension. It features reinforced front struts, a reinforced aluminum engine cradle and heavy-duty front and rear stabilizer bars. The Impala Police car is equipped with anti-lock disc brakes with police calibration and heavy-duty front brake pads.

StabiliTrak electronic stability control is new for 2012 and includes performance mode and traction control.