2015 Dodge Charger Pursuit V8 Review – Power, Precision, and Police-Grade Performance
Introduction
The 2015 Dodge Charger Pursuit V8 isn’t your typical sedan—it’s a purpose-built, police-grade machine designed for law enforcement but increasingly popular among civilian drivers seeking a powerful, durable, and commanding vehicle. Based on the seventh-generation Charger, the Pursuit trim offers robust engineering, high-speed capability, and heavy-duty components built to withstand the rigors of duty use.
This review covers the 2015 Charger Pursuit V8 in detail, focusing on its performance, durability, design, features, and real-world use—whether you're a collector, an enthusiast, or someone seeking a performance sedan with serious backbone.
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Exterior Design – Muscular and Mission-Ready
With its aggressive stance, wide body, and no-nonsense styling, the 2015 Dodge Charger Pursuit V8 makes a bold statement. The model year brought a significant front-end redesign, including slimmer projector-beam headlights and the signature crosshair grille for a more streamlined, modern look.
Exterior Features:
18-inch steel wheels with performance tires
LED daytime running lights
Projector headlamps
Pursuit-specific underbody aerodynamic enhancements
Heavy-duty brake cooling ducts
Optional spotlight (common on decommissioned models)
While function over form dictates most of the design choices, the 2015 Charger Pursuit still looks sharp and assertive on public roads.
Engine and Performance
The 2015 Charger Pursuit V8 is equipped with the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine, shared with the civilian Charger R/T. Designed for high-speed pursuits, this powertrain emphasizes quick acceleration, top-end power, and extended durability under stress.
Powertrain Specs:
Engine: 5.7L HEMI V8
Horsepower: 370 hp @ 5,250 rpm
Torque: 395 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed automatic with column shifter
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (AWD optional for V6 models)
Top Speed: Approx. 149 mph
The V8 Charger Pursuit delivers thrilling acceleration and authoritative torque, getting from 0–60 mph in under 6 seconds. The V8 roar is unmistakable, and the response is immediate when pressing the throttle.
Pursuit Engineering – Built for the Job
Unlike regular Dodge Charger trims, the Pursuit version is engineered to handle continuous high-speed driving and demanding duty cycles.
Pursuit-Specific Upgrades:
Heavy-duty suspension tuning
Performance brake package with larger rotors
Heavy-duty alternator (220-amp)
Engine oil cooler, transmission cooler, and power steering cooler
Steel wheels for durability
Enhanced cooling system
These upgrades make the Pursuit V8 resilient in the face of heat, stress, and repeated hard driving. It’s not just powerful—it’s designed to run at peak performance under harsh conditions.
Ride and Handling
Despite its heavy-duty tuning, the Charger Pursuit V8 rides with surprising refinement. The steering is precise and well-weighted, and the vehicle feels balanced even when cornering at higher speeds.
The suspension system soaks up uneven pavement while maintaining body control, though ride quality can be stiffer than the civilian R/T due to its police-specific tuning.
Handling is enhanced by:
Whether navigating city streets or sweeping highways, the Charger Pursuit V8 feels responsive, controlled, and confident.
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Interior Design and Functionality
The cabin of the 2015 Charger Pursuit V8 is all about function. Most examples will come with a no-frills layout designed to accommodate police equipment. However, many decommissioned units have been cleaned up or upgraded for civilian use.
Interior Features:
Cloth front seats with vinyl rear bench (configurations may vary)
Uconnect 3.0 or 5.0 infotainment systems (no large touchscreen standard)
Column-mounted shifter
Basic HVAC and audio controls
Front seat-mounted airbags, side-curtain airbags
Rearview camera optional (many units include it post-duty)
Space is generous, with roomy front and rear seating, making it a suitable sedan for taller drivers or backseat passengers. Most civilian drivers will find the interior spartan but usable, and some may opt to customize it for comfort or infotainment upgrades.
Technology and Utility
The 2015 Charger Pursuit V8 was not built with luxury tech in mind, but it offers a few essentials and leaves room for aftermarket customization.
Available Technology:
AM/FM radio with auxiliary input
Basic Uconnect interface (upgradable post-purchase)
Hands-free calling with optional Bluetooth
Rear camera wiring harness (camera not always installed)
Upfitter wiring for emergency equipment
If you're buying a decommissioned unit, many of these features may have been upgraded, or there may be opportunities to install higher-end infotainment and comfort systems post-purchase.
Safety and Durability
The Charger Pursuit was engineered with law enforcement safety in mind. It features reinforced crash structures and advanced restraint systems.
Safety Features:
Advanced multistage front airbags
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
ParkView rear back-up camera (optional)
Rain Brake Support and Ready Alert Braking
Side-impact and side-curtain airbags
The structure is crash-tested for 75-mph rear impacts, and it’s engineered to meet rigorous federal and police crash durability standards. These features also make it a strong safety performer for civilian use.
Fuel Economy and Cost of Ownership
With a V8 under the hood, the 2015 Charger Pursuit isn’t built for efficiency—but it holds its own compared to other performance sedans in its class.
EPA Fuel Economy Estimates (RWD V8):
City: 15 mpg
Highway: 23 mpg
Combined: 18 mpg
Ownership Considerations:
Durability: Designed for extended idle time and hard use
Maintenance: Parts are widely available and reasonably priced
Insurance: Varies depending on how it’s registered (police vs. civilian use)
With its simplified design and shared components with other Charger trims, long-term maintenance is relatively affordable—especially considering its robust drivetrain.
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Real-World Use and Versatility
While built for patrol duty, the 2015 Charger Pursuit V8 makes a compelling used performance sedan. Its solid construction, V8 power, and aggressive styling give it street presence and practicality.
Enthusiasts value it for:
Commuters may enjoy:
Whether you’re customizing it for fun, using it as a daily driver, or collecting it as a piece of muscle car history, the Pursuit V8 is a versatile platform.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Powerful 5.7L HEMI V8 engine
Heavy-duty components built for endurance
Distinctive styling and law enforcement credibility
Excellent road presence and comfort
High-speed capability with police-grade cooling and suspension
Cons:
Spartan interior (especially base models)
Lower fuel economy
Can require decommissioning updates for civilian use
Limited luxury features without upgrades
Who Should Consider the 2015 Charger Pursuit V8?
This vehicle is ideal for:
Muscle car enthusiasts seeking a budget-friendly V8 sedan
Buyers looking for a durable and powerful daily driver
Customization fans who enjoy performance mods
Collectors interested in ex-police models
If you’re willing to upgrade or personalize the interior and tech, the Charger Pursuit V8 offers unbeatable power and road presence for the price.
Conclusion
The 2015 Dodge Charger Pursuit V8 is more than just a retired police cruiser—it’s a bold, muscular sedan built to withstand the toughest driving conditions while delivering a thrilling V8 experience. With its proven HEMI engine, heavy-duty upgrades, and aggressive design, it appeals to anyone seeking performance and durability in a sedan.
Whether you're driving it as-is or customizing it for personal style, the Charger Pursuit V8 offers an unbeatable combination of price, power, and pedigree.
Looking for a 2015 Dodge Charger Pursuit V8 for sale near Norfolk or Virginia Beach? Visit Your Kar Company at 7912 Becket Street, Norfolk, VA 23518 to explore inventory and financing options today.
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Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Interested parties should confirm all data before relying on it to make a purchase decision. All prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Prices may not include additional fees such as government fees and taxes, title and registration fees, finance charges, dealer document preparation fees, $599 processing fee, and emission testing and compliance charges. VADLR5929-7574800100.
