- Durban Metro Police has received 50 brand-new VW Golf GTIs for law enforcement.
- Authorities say they have plans to introduce advanced driver training for its officers.
- The GTI packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged four delivering 241 hp.
Criminals in the South African city of Durban had better watch their backs as local authorities have just taken delivery of no less than 50 brand-new VW Golf GTIs to serve and protect.
The squad of hot hatches was recently delivered to the Durban Metro Police Service and each has been outfitted with a special blue and white livery. They also have the obligatory flashing lights, and even though the Golf GTI isn’t the fastest vehicle on the planet, it’s more than enough to outpace most vehicles on South African roads.
Read: Today’s ICE-Powered VW Golf Might Have 10 Years Left In The Tank
Packing a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, the current Mk8 Golf GTI produces 241 hp and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque. As VW recently dropped the manual transmission option for the Golf GTI, all of the Durban police force’s cars presumably rock the standard seven-speed dual-clutch transmission operating alongside an electronic locking front differential.
Writing on Facebook, the Durban Metro Police Service said it has plans to introduce new advanced driving training to ensure officers drive the new vehicles safely.
“Equipping officers with the skills to handle high-performance vehicles responsibly is crucial not only for their safety but also for maintaining respect on the roads,” it wrote. “Proper training will ensure that these vehicles are used effectively for law enforcement rather than creating additional issues. As part of the plans for the new police college, we’re looking to introduce advanced driver training to address exactly this concern. The goal is to have well-trained officers who can navigate complex situations on the roads while ensuring that the public is treated with respect and that vehicles are maintained properly to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.”
Other police forces in South Africa use VW hot hatches. For example, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department previously employed Mk7 Golf GTIs and now uses the Polo GTI.
