Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, the fastest from Jeep yet

If looks could kill, then this Cherokee would probably end up being a serial killer. Mean low and sporty this SUV means business right from the word go. In line with its sporty character, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT features a 3 cm lowered, aggressive profile that reveals the unmistakable and unique DNA of the vehicles with SRT badge. The exterior boasts functional design features that enhance the sporty and muscular look of the car, including a liftgate spoiler, 5-spoke, 20-inch alloy wheels, new wheel flares, functional dual black heat extractors on the front hood and dual-sport exhaust system.

Jeep is also coming to India, with the company likely to launch other models of the Grand Cherokee soon

On the inside, roomy the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT’s refined cabin features race-inspired technology and exclusive appointments. Standard equipment offers an all-new, leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel with mounted paddle-shifters and a power tilt and telescoping steering column.

Powering this monster is an all-new 6.4-litre HEMI V8 engine fitted with Fuel Saver Technology. Fuel Saver alternates a four-cylinder mode of the HEMI engine when less power is needed and a V8 mode when more power is in demand in order to optimise fuel economy and decrease overall emissions. The new engine delivers 461 PS  and 624 Nm of torque, an improvement of 43 PS and 55 Nm torque over the 6.1-litre HEMI V8 that powered the former Grand Cherokee SRT. An active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft with cam phasing produces maximum low-end torque while optimizing high-end power across a wider and improved rpm band. Specifically, 90-percent of peak torque is available between 2,800 and 6,000 rpm, allowing for inspired standing starts and improved straight-line performance.

Handling is taken care of by the SRT-tuned, Active Adaptive damping suspension managed by the new Jeep Selec-Track system. This system interacts with several different systems (stability control, active damping, transmission shift strategy, transfer case torque proportioning, Electronic Limited Slip Differential performance, throttle control and cylinder de-activation) to automatically tune the dynamics of the vehicle according to customers’ habits and driving condition.

Its not just on road performance, for the off beaten path, the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT features standard Quadra Trac active on-demand four-wheel-drive transfer case. This 4x4 system uses input from a variety of sensors in order to determine tyre slip at the earliest possible moment and take corrective action. The system uses Throttle Anticipate to sense quick movement in the throttle from a stop and maximises traction before slippage occurs. When tyre slippage is detected, the system can transfer up to 100 per cent of available torque to one rear wheel with better grip.

The fastest Jeep ever then? With the kind of performance, handling and grip on offer this is without doubt the quickest SUV from Chrysler’s stables. But is it faster than the competition? A performance SUV battle should certainly answer that question.