Police cars have plenty of tech, but what happens when the going gets rough?

While most departments favor big American sedans, the Greenfield, Wisconsin Police Department wanted something that could chase suspects through snow, mud, and the occasional shallow river crossing. What did they choose? The Subaru WRX STI, which can easily accomplish all law enforcement needs and, with a set of flashing lights, look pretty cool doing it.

According to Police Magazine (via Jalopnik) the 2012 STI is used for speed enforcement, cruising enforcement, and community service duties. It’s on a courtesy lease from Schlossmann’s Subaru City of Milwaukee.

“It’s a great way to connect with the community and sparks dialog with the officers,” Greenfield Police chief Brad Wentlandt said.

Underneath the rally-inspired full vinyl wrap, the car appears to be mechanically stock, down to its 305 horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer-four and six-speed manual transmission.

It would be interesting to pit the WRX against the Dodge Charger Pursuit- currently America’s fastest cop car – in a drag race. We already know which one is fastest in the rain.

The Subaru may seem like an unorthodox choice compared to the tradition Crown Victoria Police Interceptor and other big sedans, but it’s definitely not the most exotic car to wear a police badge.

Green cars like the Vauxhall Ampera and Nissan Leaf have been pressed into service, and the Finnish Police recently took delivery of a Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake.

Then there’s the Dubai Police, which has a stable of cars that would make any collector proud. Its fleet includes a Lamborghini Aventador, Ferrari FF, and a Chevrolet Camaro SS.

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