Jeep has announced the first details of the fastest, most powerful production SUV ever built – the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk.
Powered by the same engine fitted to the Dodge Challenger Hellcat, a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 producing 527kW and 874Nm of torque, Jeep say the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk will be capable of 0-100km/h in 3.6 seconds, complete a standing quarter mile in 11.6 seconds (at 186km/h), and reach a top speed of 290km/h.
To achieve these figures, Jeep had to use the strongest materials available. A cast iron engine block features water jackets between the cylinders for cooling. A forged-steel crankshaft is used, able of withstanding pressures up to 1,600psi.
Pistons are constructed using forged-alloy, coupled to power-forged connecting rods with high-load-capacity carbon-coated piston pins.
“Long recognised as the full-size SUV capability leader, Jeep Grand Cherokee is now the most powerful and quickest SUV as well, with the introduction of our new 527kW Trackhawk,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global.
“The new Grand Cherokee Trackhawk delivers astounding performance numbers, backed by renowned SRT engineering that combines world-class on-road driving dynamics with luxury, refinement and an array of innovative advanced technology.”
Jeep has been able to carry over the same TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic from the SRT model with a few software changes to account for the extra performance; but the driveshaft, rear axle and differential have all been strengthened.
The Trackhawk will also feature largest front brakes ever fitted to a Jeep with 400mm Brembo vented rotors and six-piston callipers finished in yellow paint. The rear will have 350mm rotors with four-piston callipers.
The new Brembo brake package will bring the Trackhawk SUV to a stop from 100km/h in 36m.
Bilstein adaptive damping suspension with aluminimum upper and lower control arms keep the SUV in check through the corners.
The new model will be visually identified with body-coloured wheel flares, side sill cladding new bonnet with dual heat extractors. The Trackhawk sits on 20-inch wheels with all-new Pirelli 295/45ZR20 Scorpion Verde All-Season tyres, with a ride-height 25mm lower than non-SRT Grand Cherokee models.
Inside you’ll find an 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen with performance and gauge readouts, as well as smart phone connectivity.
Heated seats in the front and rear are wrapped in Nappa leather, and there is a choice of two audio systems.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk will go on sale in America at the end of 2017, before arriving in New Zealand in 2018.
