2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV Powered by 707-Horsepower Hellcat Engine
Jeep has introduced the 2018 Grand Cherokee Trackhawk — powered by the 707-horsepower engine of the Dodge Hellcat, making it the fastest and most powerful sport utility vehicle (SUV) in the market.
"The new Grand Cherokee Trackhawk delivers astounding performance numbers ... with luxury, refinement and an array of innovative advanced technology," said Mike Manley, head of Jeep Brand — FCA Global.
The newest model for the Grand Cherokee range is powered by the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 powertrain, which was first introduced in the Dodge Charger and Challenger in 2014. Apart from producing immense horsepower, the engine yields 645 pound-feet of torque. It is mated to an upgraded TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel drive system.
In terms of performance, the 2018 Grand Cherokee Trackhawk goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour (mph) in just 3.5 seconds and reaches a quarter mile in 11.6 seconds. It attains a top speed of 180 mph.
Jeep has also included software that allows drivers to utilize five driving modes — Automatic, Sport, Track, Tow and Snow. Furthermore, Custom mode enables owners to choose their preferred settings for a more personalized driving experience.
Notable features include a new Brembo braking system with large 15.75-inch front brakes, two-piece vented rotors and six-piston calipers. This gives the midsize SUV braking performance of 60 mph to 0 in 114 feet. The vehicle also comes with a strengthened rear drive shaft and a beefier front suspension with coil springs and control arms.
Design-wise, the Trackhawk is similar to the standard Grand Cherokee but with a few unique accents such as side sill cladding, wheel flares, a sculpted hood and 4-inch quad exhaust pipes in black chrome. The driver-centric interior will come with premium materials, a black chrome finish and an 8.4-inch infotainment system.
Available driver-assistance features include adaptive cruise control, brake assist, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, park assist and lane departure warning.
More details will be announced during the vehicle's official debut at the New York International Show (NYIAS) on Wednesday, April 12.
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk will arrive at dealerships at the end of 2017. Pricing has yet to be announced.