Engine and Transmission

From Car and Driver

Engine and Transmission Rating:

The Grand Cherokee SRT first won our hearts with its thunderous Hemi V-8 and impressive performance. But love is a fickle mistress, especially compared with the Trackhawk-the hottest thing ever to wear a Jeep badge. Its Hellcat engine has mind-blowing acceleration and a soundtrack that raises a metaphorical middle finger to local noise ordinances. Both versions use an eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system with launch control for perfect takeoffs.

Although the SRT’s naturally aspirated 6.4-liter V-8 is mild compared with the Trackhawk’s supercharged 6.2-liter V-8, it still has 475 horses and 470 lb-ft of torque. The SRT we tested ripped to 60 mph in only 4.4 seconds-just 0.2 second slower than a Dodge Challenger T/A 392. While the pony car was quicker in other acceleration tests, the SRT SUV matched the coupe’s hearty exhaust note and responsive throttle for powerful pulls around town.

The Trackhawk’s 707 horsepower is identical to its Hellcat Challenger and Charger siblings, but its more restrictive exhaust system decreases torque by 5 lb-ft (645 total). The difference is negligible, and the Trackhawk’s all-wheel-drive traction allowed the Jeep to virtually teleport from zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, quicker than the last Hellcat Challenger we tested (3.8 seconds). Even more impressive, the GC was quicker than all of its high-end SUV rivals, especially between 50 and 70 mph. At 2.5 seconds, it’s also quicker than supercars such as the McLaren 570S (2.7 seconds) and the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S (2.6 seconds). The ’Hawk’s throttle was so responsive that we didn’t dare mat the pedal around town. Its instantaneous nature was saved for long straightaways that quickly felt short.

Test Results: Acceleration

Manual Shifting Capability

Both models’ eight-speed automatics have a manual mode with steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles that responded quickly. The transmissions shifted readily and smoothly on their own, adapting to the driver’s right foot whether it was light or heavy.

Automatic Stop/Start

Tow Ratings Compared

These high-powered Jeeps can tow a substantial 7200 pounds (with the optional Trailer Tow package), making them more practical than any other Hellcat-powered vehicle.

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