Ultimate hoon car grows up and joins police force: 2024 Subaru WRX replaces Kia Stinger and Volkswagen Passat in Northern Territory

The original cop-magnet has found itself on the other side of the law up north, with Northern Territory Police announcing the addition of the Subaru WRX to their fleet. 

According to the NT Government, 13 WRXs will join the forces' high-performance vehicle repertoire to replace an ageing fleet of Kia Stingers and Volkswagen Passats.  

Operational police were involved in the vehicle fit-out adding unique features such as a dual-battery system, an advanced speed radar, number plate recognition cameras, a light bar and message board and even a rifle mount with an electronic quick-release. 

As standard, each WRX is powered by a 2.4-litre turbocharged ‘boxer’ flat-four that produces 202kW and 350Nm. Power is sent to all four wheels through a CVT automatic transmission, for a 0-100km/h time of around 6.0 seconds. 

The NT Government paid $70,000 for each vehicle, which they say is capable of hitting 250 km/h flat out.

It’s certainly a sign of the times for the cult-classic, with the WRX embracing a more grown-up assignment compared to its roots as a car-modder's dream.

But it might shock you to know that this isn’t the first time a WRX has found itself draped in white and blue. 

Subaru Impreza WRX police car

In the 1990s the Victorian Police employed first generation Impreza WRXs as highway patrol vehicles along the east coast – although we can’t confirm whether it came with a catback exhaust and a boost controller.

Police in WA also used a fourth-generation Impreza WRX sedan in 2014, though the NT's new cars will be put to work full-time on the force rather than as special 'trophy' vehicles.

Victoria Police were reportedly considering the addition of an Outback turbo to the fleet in 2023.