Jeep Trackhawk: A Comprehensive Introduction to the High-Performance SUV

History and Development of the Jeep Trackhawk

The Jeep Trackhawk debuted in the 2018 model year as the ultimate performance variant of the Grand Cherokee. Created in response to rising demand for high-powered SUVs, it was designed to compete with sports cars in acceleration and speed. Jeep’s engineering team partnered with SRT (Street & Racing Technology), Stellantis’ performance division, to ensure that the Trackhawk delivered thrilling performance without compromising the comfort and rugged capability associated with the Grand Cherokee. At its core is a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine—borrowed from the Dodge Challenger and Charger Hellcat—that cranks out an impressive 707 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse, paired with a specially tuned all-wheel-drive system and a performance-calibrated suspension, gave the Trackhawk incredible straight-line speed and handling, making it one of the fastest and most powerful production SUVs ever released while still offering the practicality expected from a Jeep.

Performance and Engineering

At the core of the Jeep Trackhawk lies a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine mated to a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. This powerful duo rockets the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.5 seconds, with a top speed nearing 180 mph. Built for durability under high stress, the engine includes forged internals, high-flow fuel injectors, and a heavy-duty cooling system. To handle all that power, the Trackhawk employs Jeep’s Quadra-Trac on-demand all-wheel-drive system, delivering superior grip in diverse conditions. Its adaptive suspension provides a smooth, composed ride for daily use while firming up for more aggressive driving or track sessions. Braking performance is equally impressive, thanks to Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers up front, ensuring strong stopping power. Performance tires and recalibrated steering further enhance the Trackhawk’s agile handling, offering a driving experience that balances raw speed with precision and control.

Design and Interior Features

Exterior Styling: The Jeep Trackhawk commands attention with aggressive design elements like bold front and rear fascias, functional hood vents, and signature Trackhawk badging. Quad exhaust tips and a low, wide stance add to its performance persona, while available lightweight alloy wheels and optional high-performance tires enhance both style and capability.

Interior Comfort: Inside, the cabin combines high-performance character with luxury. Premium materials such as leather and suede are used throughout, and features like heated and ventilated front seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and a customizable digital gauge cluster add to the driver-focused experience. The Uconnect infotainment system includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium sound system for an immersive audio experience.

Cargo and Practicality: True to its Grand Cherokee roots, the Trackhawk doesn’t sacrifice practicality. It seats five comfortably and offers ample cargo space, making it suitable for daily use, road trips, or family outings—even with its supercar-like performance.

Technology and Safety

Advanced Driver Assistance: The Jeep Trackhawk comes equipped with a robust suite of safety and driver-assist technologies designed to enhance security and confidence on the road. Key features include adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set distance from vehicles ahead; blind-spot monitoring, which alerts drivers to unseen vehicles when changing lanes; forward collision warning with active braking to help avoid or mitigate frontal impacts; and lane departure warning, which assists in keeping the vehicle centered in its lane. These systems work in tandem to provide a safer driving experience, both in urban traffic and on the highway.

Performance Pages: Exclusive to performance-focused Jeep models like the Trackhawk, the Performance Pages application offers drivers a detailed, real-time view of their vehicle’s performance metrics. Drivers can track 0-60 mph times, braking distances, G-force levels, engine performance, and transmission behavior directly from the infotainment screen. This interactive feature allows enthusiasts to better understand how their vehicle is performing under various driving conditions, adding an immersive layer to the high-powered driving experience the Trackhawk delivers.

Comparison Table: Jeep Trackhawk vs. Other High-Performance SUVs

Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

-Engine: 6.2L Supercharged V8

-Horsepower: 707 hp

-0–60 mph: 3.5 seconds

-Top Speed: 180 mph

-MSRP: ~$90,000

-Drivetrain: AWD

The Trackhawk delivers extreme performance at a significantly lower price than most rivals, offering incredible horsepower and acceleration with all-wheel-drive capability.

Lamborghini Urus

-Engine: 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

-Horsepower: 657 hp

-0–60 mph: 3.3 seconds

-Top Speed: 190 mph

-MSRP: ~$230,000

-Drivetrain: AWD

The Urus blends supercar performance with exotic styling and luxury, but comes at more than double the price of the Trackhawk.

Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT

-Engine: 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

-Horsepower: 631 hp

-0–60 mph: 3.1 seconds

-Top Speed: 189 mph

-MSRP: ~$197,000

-Drivetrain: AWD

This Porsche SUV prioritizes precision handling and track-capable speed, catering to performance purists who also want luxury.

BMW X5 M Competition

-Engine: 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8

-Horsepower: 617 hp

-0–60 mph: 3.7 seconds

-Top Speed: 177 mph

-MSRP: ~$123,000

-Drivetrain: AWD

BMW’s X5 M Competition offers a refined balance of luxury and power with slightly more practicality and understated design.

Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S

-Engine: 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8

-Horsepower: 603 hp

-0–60 mph: 3.7 seconds

-Top Speed: 174 mph

-MSRP: ~$120,000

-Drivetrain: AWD

Combining comfort, tech, and speed, the GLE 63 S provides an upscale experience with high-performance pedigree.

Summary:

The Trackhawk stands out by offering supercar-like performance at a much lower price point. While it may not match the badge prestige or ultra-luxury interiors of its European rivals, its raw power, aggressive styling, and affordability make it a compelling choice for buyers seeking maximum performance without the exotic markup.

Future of the Trackhawk

As the auto industry embraces electrification and tighter emissions regulations, the future of high-horsepower, gas-powered SUVs like the Jeep Trackhawk faces uncertainty. Still, the Trackhawk's legacy as one of the most powerful and exhilarating SUVs remains firmly intact. Jeep’s commitment to performance suggests that future models could evolve with hybrid or electric powertrains—delivering the same thrill and capability in a more sustainable package.