When we think about SUVs, the first things that usually come to mind are practicality, space, and family-friendly comfort. But Jeep Trackhawk decided to break that mold completely with the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. This beast of an SUV isn’t just another big vehicle for hauling kids and groceries—it’s a high-performance machine that can go head-to-head with some of the world’s fastest sports cars. With a Hellcat engine tucked under its hood, the Trackhawk is unlike anything else in the SUV market. Let’s dive deeper into what makes this SUV such an icon for enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
The Origins of the Jeep Trackhawk
The Jeep Trackhawk was first introduced as a way for Jeep to make a bold statement in the automotive world. For decades, Jeep Trackhawk was known for its off-road dominance with models like the Wrangler and Cherokee. However, the company wanted to prove that it could build something more versatile—an SUV that wasn’t just good on rugged trails but also capable of leaving sports cars in the dust on city streets.
Jeep achieved this by combining the practicality of the Grand Cherokee with the power of Dodge’s Hellcat engine. This partnership under the Stellantis umbrella gave Jeep the freedom to create something wild and unprecedented. Jeep Trackhawk When it launched in 2018, the Trackhawk instantly became one of the most talked-about SUVs in the world. Jeep Trackhawk Critics, enthusiasts, and even those who weren’t usually interested in SUVs couldn’t help but turn their heads.
The Trackhawk’s origins reflect a clear philosophy: why settle for “just enough power” when you can go completely over the top? Jeep leaned into that philosophy, and the Trackhawk quickly earned a reputation for being one of the most outrageous performance SUVs ever made.
Under the Hood: The Power That Makes the Trackhawk Legendary
What truly sets the Jeep Trackhawk apart is its engine. Jeep Trackhawk didn’t hold back when they decided to equip it with the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 from Dodge’s Hellcat lineup. This monster engine pumps out a jaw-dropping 707 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque. That’s not just fast for an SUV—it’s faster than most sports cars on the market.
With this engine, the Trackhawk can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Jeep Trackhawk That’s about the same time it takes for a Lamborghini Huracán or a Porsche 911 Carrera to hit the same mark. For an SUV that weighs over 5,300 pounds, that level of acceleration is nothing short of astonishing. The top speed is equally impressive, reaching around 180 mph. For a vehicle with the size and stature of a family SUV, those numbers are mind-blowing.
The Trackhawk also comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts quickly and smoothly, ensuring that all that power is delivered efficiently to the wheels. Add in all-wheel drive, and you’ve got an SUV that not only rockets forward but also grips the road with confidence. Jeep Trackhawk This combination of brute force and stability makes the Trackhawk one of the most thrilling rides in its category.
Performance Meets Everyday Usability
One of the most fascinating things about the Jeep Trackhawk is that, despite its supercar-level performance, it doesn’t sacrifice the everyday usability that people expect from an SUV. Jeep Trackhawk Unlike traditional sports cars, which often have cramped interiors and limited cargo space, the Trackhawk provides plenty of room for passengers and luggage. You can take it on a road trip, run errands, or drop the kids off at school—all while knowing you’ve got more power at your disposal than most Ferraris on the road.
The interior is just as impressive as the performance numbers. Jeep equipped the Trackhawk with premium materials, including leather seats, carbon-fiber accents, and a driver-focused cockpit that makes you feel like you’re in a true performance machine. The Uconnect infotainment system provides a modern and intuitive interface, offering features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. Even though it’s built for speed, the Trackhawk doesn’t skimp on tech or comfort.
And let’s not forget about towing capability. The Trackhawk can tow up to 7,200 pounds, which means you can haul boats, trailers, or whatever toys you’ve got lying around. Not many performance vehicles can offer that kind of utility. This blend of raw power, luxury, and practicality makes the Trackhawk appealing to drivers who want it all.
Design and Exterior Styling
From the outside, the Jeep Trackhawk doesn’t scream “supercar SUV,” but it does have subtle design cues that hint at its incredible performance. At first glance, it looks similar to the regular Grand Cherokee, but a closer inspection reveals unique touches that separate it from its siblings.
The Trackhawk features a more aggressive front fascia with larger air intakes to cool the supercharged V8. The hood has functional vents that not only add to its bold appearance but also help with heat management. Quad exhaust tips at the back and “Supercharged” badging give it a distinctive look that lets enthusiasts know this isn’t your average Jeep.
Sitting on 20-inch wheels wrapped in performance tires, the Trackhawk has a muscular stance that complements its powertrain. The available Brembo brakes—painted in a striking red—also add to its aggressive styling while ensuring it has the stopping power to match its speed. It’s an SUV that manages to balance understated class with enough visual cues to make people look twice.
Driving Experience: More Than Just Speed
Driving the Jeep Trackhawk isn’t just about mashing the gas pedal and enjoying the insane acceleration. It’s about the overall experience. The vehicle’s adaptive suspension system adjusts to different driving modes, allowing you to switch from a comfortable cruiser to a track-ready beast with the push of a button. Whether you’re navigating city streets, cruising on the highway, or hitting the drag strip, the Trackhawk adapts seamlessly.
The steering is sharp and responsive for an SUV of its size, and the all-wheel-drive system gives you confidence even in less-than-ideal road conditions. While it’s undeniably heavy, the engineering behind the Trackhawk ensures that it handles corners surprisingly well for such a large vehicle. It’s not a lightweight sports car, but it feels planted and stable in ways that defy its size.
What makes the driving experience even more memorable is the sound. The roar of the supercharged V8 is intoxicating, and the whine of the supercharger adds a unique soundtrack that’s instantly recognizable. Every time you step on the gas, it’s a reminder of just how special this SUV really is.
The Downside: Not for Everyone
As incredible as the Jeep Trackhawk is, it’s not without its drawbacks. The first and most obvious issue is fuel economy. With that 6.2-liter supercharged engine, you’re looking at an average of around 11 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway. It’s not exactly a budget-friendly daily driver if you’re worried about gas prices.
The price tag is another factor. While the Trackhawk is more affordable than many high-end performance SUVs from brands like Lamborghini or Porsche, it’s still a significant investment. On the used market, prices can vary, but when it was new, the Trackhawk started at around $90,000. For many buyers, that’s a hefty price to pay for a Jeep—even one as powerful as this.
Lastly, its sheer performance might be overkill for some drivers. Not everyone needs 707 horsepower in an SUV, and for those who just want a comfortable family car, the Trackhawk’s appeal may be limited. Still, for enthusiasts who crave the thrill, these downsides are often worth overlooking.
The Legacy of the Jeep Trackhawk
Even though Jeep discontinued the Trackhawk after the 2021 model year due to tightening emissions regulations, its legacy lives on. It proved that SUVs don’t have to be boring or limited to practicality—they can be just as exciting as the world’s most exotic sports cars. The Trackhawk set a new standard for performance SUVs and inspired other automakers to push the boundaries of what’s possible in this segment.
For collectors and enthusiasts, the Trackhawk is likely to become a sought-after model in the future. Its combination of rarity, performance, and practicality makes it a unique vehicle that stands out in automotive history. Whether or not Jeep decides to bring it back in an electrified form remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Trackhawk has already cemented its place as a legend.
Final Thoughts
The Jeep Trackhawk is proof that Jeep wasn’t afraid to think outside the box. By merging the rugged practicality of an SUV with the raw power of a Hellcat engine, they created something truly extraordinary. It’s a vehicle that blurs the lines between family car, luxury cruiser, and track monster. While it may not be the most economical or practical choice for everyone, it represents a bold vision of what an SUV can be when limits are pushed.
For anyone who loves performance, speed, and the idea of having a supercar disguised as an SUV, the Trackhawk remains one of the most unforgettable creations in modern automotive history.
