The Jeep Grand Cherokee has a reputation for being rugged, reliable, and powerful. Over the years, Jeep has built many versions of this popular SUV—some focused on comfort, others on off-road strength.
But speed? Yes, Jeep has made Grand Cherokees that can compete with sports cars.
If you want to know which Grand Cherokee holds the title of fastest, and what makes it so special, this article will guide you through the facts, numbers, and unique details.
Which Is The Fastest Jeep Grand Cherokee?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is the fastest Grand Cherokee ever made. Launched in 2018, it stunned the SUV world with its muscle car heart. The Trackhawk uses a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine, the same one found in the Dodge Hellcat models. This engine produces a massive 707 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque.
The Trackhawk’s numbers are impressive:
- 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds
- Top speed of 180 mph
- Quarter-mile time of around 11.6 seconds
These figures place it among the fastest SUVs ever, not just for Jeep. Even some sports cars struggle to match these speeds.
How Does The Trackhawk Achieve This Speed?
The secret is in the engine and drivetrain. The supercharged V8 is not just powerful, but also built for fast response. An 8-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels. This all-wheel-drive system helps the Trackhawk launch quickly without losing grip.
Key features that help the Trackhawk go fast:
- Supercharger: Adds extra power by forcing more air into the engine.
- Launch Control: Optimizes acceleration from a stop.
- High-Performance Brakes: Brembo brakes make sure the SUV can stop as quickly as it accelerates.
- Sport-Tuned Suspension: Keeps the Trackhawk stable at high speeds.
Comparing Fastest Grand Cherokee Models
Not every Grand Cherokee is a Trackhawk, but several models are quick. Here is a comparison of the three fastest versions:
| Model | Engine | 0-60 mph (seconds) | Top Speed (mph) | Horsepower |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trackhawk | 6.2L Supercharged V8 | 3.5 | 180 | 707 |
| SRT | 6.4L Naturally Aspirated V8 | 4.4 | 160 | 475 |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | 5.7L Naturally Aspirated V8 | 6.2 | 130 | 360 |
As you can see, the Trackhawk is in a league of its own. The SRT is quick, but not nearly as fast as its supercharged sibling.
Real-world Driving: Is The Trackhawk Practical?
Many people wonder if such a fast SUV is practical for daily use. Surprisingly, the Trackhawk keeps much of the comfort and space you expect from a Grand Cherokee. It has:
- Room for five adults
- Plenty of cargo space
- Advanced safety features
But there are trade-offs. The fuel economy is low—about 11 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway. Insurance costs are also higher than average. Still, for drivers who want both speed and SUV practicality, the Trackhawk is a rare combination.
Trackhawk Vs. Other Fast Suvs
How does the fastest Grand Cherokee compare to other high-performance SUVs? Take a look at this data:
| SUV | 0-60 mph (seconds) | Top Speed (mph) | Horsepower |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk | 3.5 | 180 | 707 |
| Lamborghini Urus | 3.2 | 190 | 641 |
| Porsche Cayenne Turbo | 3.7 | 177 | 541 |
| BMW X5 M Competition | 3.7 | 177 | 617 |
The Trackhawk is only slightly slower to 60 mph than the Urus, but it costs much less. This makes the Trackhawk a strong value in the world of fast SUVs.
- Tuning Potential: The Trackhawk’s engine is famous for being easy to tune. Many owners modify their SUVs to make over 900 horsepower. This is more than most supercars.
- Resale Value: Because the Trackhawk is no longer produced after 2021, well-kept models are holding value better than some expected. Collectors are starting to pay attention.
Why Jeep Stopped Making The Trackhawk
Jeep ended Trackhawk production mainly due to stricter emission regulations and a shift toward hybrid and electric models. The high-powered V8 engine does not meet the newest standards in many countries. Still, the Trackhawk remains a symbol of Jeep’s engineering power.
For those seeking the fastest Grand Cherokee today, the 2023 Grand Cherokee SRT is the closest option, but nothing matches the Trackhawk’s speed.
Should You Buy A Used Trackhawk?
Buying a used Trackhawk can be tempting if you want the fastest Grand Cherokee. Here’s what to consider:
- Maintenance costs are higher due to the complex engine and performance parts.
- Check for signs of modifications or past racing, which can affect reliability.
- Make sure the vehicle has a full service record.
If you find a well-kept Trackhawk, it’s a unique SUV that will likely remain special for years to come.
