The Hellcat engine is famous for its incredible power and deep roar. Many car lovers dream of having this engine in their vehicle. But which Jeep actually comes with the Hellcat engine? Let’s explore the facts, models, and everything you need to know about the Jeep Hellcat connection.
What Is The Hellcat Engine?
The Hellcat engine is a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 made by Dodge, part of Stellantis (which also owns Jeep). This engine is well-known for producing massive horsepower—over 700 hp in most cars. It first appeared in Dodge’s Charger and Challenger models, quickly becoming a legend among muscle car fans.
Key Hellcat engine specs:
- 6.2-liter displacement
- Supercharged
- Over 700 horsepower
- 650 lb-ft of torque
This engine is not just about speed; it’s about bringing race-level excitement to everyday driving.
Which Jeep Has The Hellcat Engine?
The only Jeep that comes with the factory Hellcat engine is the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. Jeep launched this special SUV in 2018, making it one of the fastest and most powerful SUVs ever built.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Overview
The Trackhawk is a high-performance version of the Grand Cherokee. It uses the same 6.2L supercharged V8 found in the Dodge Hellcat models. Here’s how it stands out:
- 707 horsepower
- 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds
- Top speed of 180 mph
This SUV combines Jeep’s classic 4×4 abilities with extreme speed.
Trackhawk Vs. Other Grand Cherokee Models
To see how the Trackhawk compares, look at this quick chart:
| Model | Engine | Horsepower | 0-60 mph | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trackhawk | 6.2L Supercharged V8 | 707 hp | 3.5 sec | 180 mph |
| SRT | 6.4L V8 | 475 hp | 4.3 sec | 160 mph |
| Laredo | 3.6L V6 | 293 hp | 7.1 sec | 117 mph |
As shown, the Trackhawk is in a different league.
What Makes The Trackhawk Special?
Most SUVs focus on off-road skills or family comfort. The Trackhawk is unique because it offers:
- Supercar performance in an SUV body
- Jeep’s all-wheel drive system for better traction
- Luxury features: Leather seats, high-end sound system, advanced safety tech
It’s rare for a vehicle to combine daily comfort with so much raw power. The Trackhawk is also known for its loud exhaust, aggressive looks, and attention-grabbing speed.
Can You Get A Hellcat Engine In Other Jeeps?
Jeep does not offer the Hellcat engine in other models from the factory. There is no Wrangler Hellcat or Gladiator Hellcat as standard options. However, some specialty shops and custom builders offer Hellcat engine swaps for these vehicles. This means they take a Hellcat motor and install it into a Wrangler or Gladiator. These custom builds can be extremely powerful, but they are not official Jeep products. They often cost much more and may not have a warranty.
Factory Vs. Aftermarket Hellcat Jeeps
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Type | Model | Hellcat Engine? | Warranty | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Factory | Grand Cherokee Trackhawk | Yes | Yes | $90,000 (approx.) |
| Aftermarket | Wrangler/Gladiator (custom swap) | Yes (custom) | No (usually) | $100,000+ |
Most buyers choose the Trackhawk for reliability and peace of mind.
Trackhawk Production Years And Availability
Jeep produced the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk from 2018 to 2021. After 2021, the model was discontinued due to stricter emissions rules and changes in Jeep’s engine lineup. If you want a Trackhawk, you’ll need to buy a used one.
Some key facts:
- Fewer than 10,000 Trackhawks were made in the US.
- It is already becoming a collector’s item.
- Prices for used models remain high due to demand.
Performance And Everyday Use
The Trackhawk is practical for daily use. It has five seats, good cargo space, and advanced safety systems. Still, its powerful engine means higher fuel costs and more expensive maintenance. Insurance is also usually higher.
Fuel economy:
- 11 mpg city / 17 mpg highway (EPA estimates)
Towing capacity:
- Up to 7,200 lbs, which is impressive for a performance SUV.
Two Insights Most Miss About The Jeep Hellcat
- All-wheel drive advantage: Many muscle cars with the Hellcat engine are rear-wheel drive. The Trackhawk’s all-wheel drive lets it launch harder and handle better in bad weather, making it faster off the line than many sports cars.
- Limited production: Because of its short production run and high cost, the Trackhawk is rare. Values may stay high, especially as stricter emissions rules make V8 engines less common.
Should You Buy A Trackhawk?
If you want the most powerful Jeep ever made with the Hellcat engine, the Trackhawk is the clear choice. It’s not cheap, but it offers an experience that no other SUV can match. Before buying, consider:
- High running and repair costs
- Expensive insurance
- Not as good off-road as other Jeeps (it’s built for speed)
Still, for those who want a combination of Jeep comfort and muscle car power, it’s a one-of-a-kind option.
For more details on the Hellcat engine and other Jeep models, the official Jeep website is a great resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Jeep Models Have The Hellcat Engine?
Only the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk comes with the Hellcat engine from the factory. Other Jeep models do not have this engine as a standard or optional feature.
How Fast Is The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk?
The Trackhawk can go 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph. This makes it one of the fastest SUVs ever made.
Is The Trackhawk Good For Off-roading?
While it has all-wheel drive, the Trackhawk is built for speed on roads, not off-road trails. Other Jeeps like the Wrangler are better for serious off-roading.
Can I Put A Hellcat Engine In A Jeep Wrangler?
You can, but only through custom shops. Jeep does not offer this as a factory option. Custom Hellcat swaps are expensive and may affect reliability.
Will Jeep Make More Hellcat-powered Suvs?
As of now, Jeep has no plans to make more Hellcat-powered SUVs. Emissions rules and changing markets make it unlikely in the near future.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk remains the ultimate choice for those who want a Hellcat engine in a Jeep. Its speed, rarity, and power make it a legend in the SUV world.
