The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk stormed onto the scene as the most powerful and quickest SUV ever produced. This groundbreaking vehicle redefined performance expectations within the SUV category, injecting a staggering 707 horsepower into the capable and luxurious Grand Cherokee platform. Engineered by the renowned SRT team, the Trackhawk delivers supercar-level acceleration and braking, combined with Jeep’s legendary on and off-road heritage.
The Heart of the Beast: Supercharged 6.2L V8 Engine
At the core of the Cherokee Trackhawk’s breathtaking performance lies a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine. This powerplant, shared with legendary Dodge SRT Hellcat models, unleashes an astonishing 707 horsepower and 645 lb.-ft. of torque. To handle such immense power, this engine is constructed with premium, high-strength materials. The cast iron block features strategic water jackets for optimal cooling, while the forged-steel crankshaft is built to withstand extreme pressures. Forged-alloy pistons and sodium-cooled exhaust valves further enhance durability and performance under demanding conditions.
The 2.4-liter supercharger itself is a marvel of engineering, incorporating integral charge-air coolers and an electronic bypass valve to precisely manage boost pressure, reaching a maximum of 11.6 psi. A unique coating on the twin-screw rotors minimizes internal leakage and improves efficiency. The Trackhawk’s intake system is designed for maximum airflow, featuring a cold-air scoop in the front fascia that replaces the driver’s-side fog lamp, feeding a 92mm throttle body. A high-flow oil pump and a low-temperature cooling system ensure optimal engine temperature management, even under extreme performance driving.
Unprecedented Performance Metrics
The sheer power of the supercharged V8 translates into unparalleled performance figures for an SUV. The Jeep Cherokee Trackhawk accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, achieving a quarter mile time of 11.6 seconds at 116 mph. Its top speed reaches an incredible 180 mph, cementing its status as the quickest SUV on the planet. Beyond straight-line speed, the Trackhawk also boasts exceptional braking capabilities, stopping from 60 mph in just 114 feet thanks to its advanced Brembo braking system.
Driveline and Dynamics Engineered for Performance
To effectively manage and translate the Trackhawk’s immense power to the road, significant upgrades were made to the driveline and chassis. An upgraded TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission provides rapid and refined gear changes, optimized for performance driving. The Jeep Quadra-Trac four-wheel-drive system is standard, featuring an electronic limited-slip rear differential and a robust single-speed active transfer case with forged steel components. A strengthened rear drive shaft and axle, along with ultra-high-strength steel half-shafts, ensure durability under extreme torque loads.
The Cherokee Trackhawk also features Launch Control and Torque Reserve systems to maximize acceleration from a standstill. The Selec-Track system offers five dynamic modes – Auto, Sport, Track, Snow, and Tow – allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance characteristics to various conditions. Each mode adjusts the four-wheel-drive system, transmission, suspension, and steering for optimized handling. The suspension itself is a performance-tuned Bilstein adaptive damping system, providing both exceptional road holding and a surprising degree of ride comfort for daily driving.
Benchmark Braking Power with Brembo
Bringing the high-performance Cherokee Trackhawk to a halt requires exceptional braking power. Jeep equipped the Trackhawk with a state-of-the-art Brembo braking system, featuring the largest front brakes ever fitted to a Jeep vehicle. Massive 15.75-inch (400 mm) two-piece vented front rotors with six-piston calipers, and 13.78-inch (350 mm) vented rear rotors with four-piston calipers, all finished in distinctive yellow, provide immense stopping force, heat management, and durability. The ABS, electronic stability control, and traction control systems are uniquely calibrated to work in harmony with the Brembo brakes, ensuring confident and controlled stopping performance.
Aggressive and Functional Exterior Design
The Jeep Cherokee Trackhawk’s exterior design reflects its high-performance nature. Riding an inch lower than standard Grand Cherokee models, it features body-colored wheel flares, side sill cladding, and a sculpted hood with functional dual heat extractors. The signature seven-slot grille is flanked by adaptive bi-xenon headlamps with unique Gloss Black backgrounds. Quad exhaust tips finished in Black Chrome and “Supercharged” badges on the front doors further distinguish the Trackhawk. Standard 20 x 10-inch Titanium-finish wheels, or optional lightweight forged aluminum wheels, complete the aggressive stance and showcase the yellow Brembo calipers.
Driver-Focused and Luxurious Interior
Inside, the Cherokee Trackhawk’s cabin is designed to cater to both performance driving and everyday comfort. Premium soft-touch materials, Light Black Chrome accents, and carbon fiber trim create a sporty yet luxurious atmosphere. The driver-centric instrument cluster features a 7-inch digital display with a centrally located tachometer and a 200-mph speedometer. The 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen infotainment system includes Trackhawk-exclusive Performance Pages, providing real-time performance data and timers. Standard Nappa leather and suede seats with embroidered Trackhawk logos, along with available heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system, enhance the driving experience.
Advanced Technology and Safety Features
The 2018 Jeep Cherokee Trackhawk is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and technology features. It includes over 70 safety and security features, such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, Full-speed Forward Collision Warning with Crash Mitigation, and Lane Departure Warning-Plus. The Uconnect system offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, providing seamless smartphone connectivity. A Valet mode allows drivers to limit the vehicle’s performance and access for security.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Performance SUV
The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk stands as a testament to the fusion of SUV versatility and supercar performance. Its potent supercharged V8 engine, advanced driveline, and track-tuned dynamics deliver an unparalleled driving experience. Combining blistering speed, exceptional handling, and luxurious features, the Cherokee Trackhawk rightfully earned its title as the most powerful and quickest SUV ever, setting a new benchmark in the performance SUV segment.
