2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Top Speed

2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Top Speed jeeps.truckstrend.com

Introduction: Unleashing the Apex Predator

In the world of high-performance vehicles, certain names evoke immediate recognition and respect. Among them, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk stands as a testament to audacious engineering and a relentless pursuit of power. Far from being just another family SUV, the Trackhawk carved its niche as the fastest, most powerful SUV ever produced by Jeep, a feat largely attributed to its heart-pounding top speed. This article delves deep into the essence of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk’s top speed, exploring the formidable engineering that makes it possible, the experience of harnessing such power, and what it means for the driver and the automotive landscape.

2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Top Speed

The very concept of an SUV capable of challenging sports cars on the drag strip, let alone reaching speeds typically reserved for dedicated performance machines, was revolutionary. The Trackhawk wasn’t merely fast; it redefined what was possible for a utility vehicle. Its headline-grabbing 180 mph (290 km/h) top speed isn’t just a number; it’s a statement, a declaration of intent that cemented its legendary status almost instantly. This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to understanding every facet of this remarkable speed, from the engine that powers it to the systems that keep it stable, and the practical considerations for anyone who dares to explore its limits.

The Heart of the Beast: The Hellcat Engine

At the core of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk’s astounding performance, and thus its impressive top speed, lies one of the most iconic engines in modern automotive history: the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engine. This behemoth, famously borrowed from Dodge’s Hellcat models (Challenger and Charger), was re-engineered and adapted for SUV duty, but its raw power remained undiluted.

• Unrivaled Power Output: This monstrous engine generates an astonishing 707 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque. The sheer force produced by this supercharged V8 is what propels the 5,363-pound (2,433 kg) SUV with such ferocious acceleration and allows it to maintain incredible velocities. The supercharger, a twin-screw unit, spins at up to 14,600 rpm, forcing a tremendous amount of air into the cylinders, leading to the explosive power delivery.
• Engineering for Durability: To handle such immense power, the engine features a forged-steel crankshaft, high-strength forged-alloy pistons, and heat-treated aluminum cylinder heads. These components ensure the engine’s durability and reliability even under the extreme stresses of sustained high-speed driving.
• Fuel Delivery System: A high-flow fuel pump and injectors are crucial to feed the thirsty engine, especially when it’s operating at peak performance to achieve its top speed. The Trackhawk’s fuel system is specifically designed to meet these demanding requirements.

The synergy of these components allows the Trackhawk to achieve not only its 180 mph top speed but also an incredible 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 3.5 seconds and a quarter-mile sprint in 11.6 seconds.

Engineering for Speed: Beyond the Engine

While the Hellcat engine is undoubtedly the star, achieving and maintaining a 180 mph top speed in an SUV requires a symphony of other finely tuned components working in perfect harmony.

• Robust Drivetrain: The Trackhawk employs a TorqueFlite 8HP95 eight-speed automatic transmission, specifically calibrated for the supercharged engine. This robust gearbox ensures rapid, smooth shifts, optimizing power delivery through all gears up to its top speed. Its heavy-duty components are designed to withstand the immense torque.



• Quadra-Trac Active On-Demand 4×4 System: Unlike many performance vehicles that send power only to the rear wheels, the Trackhawk utilizes a sophisticated all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. This system, with a full-time active transfer case, sends torque to all four wheels, maximizing traction during acceleration and providing stability at high speeds. In Track mode, up to 70% of the torque can be sent to the rear wheels for a more performance-oriented feel.
• Aerodynamics: While the Grand Cherokee’s SUV shape isn’t inherently aerodynamic, Jeep engineers made subtle yet effective changes to improve its high-speed stability. These include a revised front fascia with larger air intakes for cooling, a unique hood with dual heat extractors, and a redesigned rear fascia. These elements help manage airflow and reduce lift at high speeds, crucial for maintaining control as the vehicle approaches its limit.
• High-Performance Braking System: Reaching 180 mph is impressive, but stopping safely from such speeds is paramount. The Trackhawk is equipped with massive Brembo high-performance brakes. It features 15.75-inch (400 mm) two-piece vented rotors with six-piston calipers at the front and 13.78-inch (350 mm) vented rotors with four-piston calipers at the rear. These brakes provide exceptional stopping power, fade resistance, and pedal feel, instilling confidence when pushing the vehicle to its limits.
• Adaptive Damping Suspension: The standard adaptive damping suspension system, tuned by Bilstein, automatically adjusts damping rates based on driving conditions and selected drive modes (Auto, Sport, Track, Snow, Tow). In Track mode, the suspension stiffens significantly, reducing body roll and improving stability for high-speed maneuvers and straight-line runs.
• Performance Tires: The Trackhawk comes standard with 295/45ZR20 Pirelli Scorpion Verde all-season tires, with optional 295/45ZR20 Pirelli P Zero three-season tires available for maximum grip and performance, especially beneficial for sustained high-speed driving.

The Numbers Game: Unpacking the 180 mph Top Speed

The 180 mph (290 km/h) top speed of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is not just a theoretical figure; it’s a validated performance metric that places it in an elite category.

• Beyond SUV Norms: For context, most performance SUVs are electronically limited to speeds around 155 mph (250 km/h). The Trackhawk shatters this barrier, demonstrating a commitment to raw, unrestricted performance. This top speed makes it faster than many dedicated sports cars and supercars of its era.
• Acceleration that Defies Physics: Complementing its top speed is its blistering acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint in just 3.5 seconds puts it on par with, or even ahead of, vehicles like the Porsche 911 Carrera S or the Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport. This immediate thrust is what truly defines the Trackhawk’s character.
• Quarter-Mile Dominance: Its 11.6-second quarter-mile time further underscores its drag-strip prowess, showcasing its ability to rapidly cover ground with immense force.

These figures illustrate that the Trackhawk isn’t just a straight-line missile; it’s a comprehensive performance package designed to deliver thrilling speeds and acceleration in a practical SUV body.

Driving Dynamics at High Speed

Experiencing the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk at its top speed is an extraordinary event. While few drivers will ever reach 180 mph on public roads, understanding the vehicle’s behavior at such velocities is crucial.

• Remarkable Stability: Despite its height and weight, the Trackhawk exhibits remarkable stability at high speeds. The refined suspension, AWD system, and aerodynamic tweaks work together to keep the vehicle planted and composed. There’s a surprising lack of float or nervousness often associated with SUVs at elevated speeds.
• Intense Sensory Experience: The cabin becomes a symphony of mechanical prowess – the supercharger’s whine crescendoes, the engine roars, and the wind noise, though well-managed, becomes a constant hum. The world outside blurs into streaks, and the sheer velocity becomes palpable.
• Precision and Control: The steering, though not sports-car precise, offers enough feedback and weighting to inspire confidence. The powerful brakes are always a reassuring presence, ready to scrub off speed with authority.
• Importance of Environment: It cannot be stressed enough that attempting to reach the Trackhawk’s top speed should only be done on a closed course, such as a dedicated high-speed test track or a professional racing circuit. Public roads are inherently unpredictable and illegal for such speeds, posing extreme danger to the driver and others.

Context and Competitors

The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk entered a competitive landscape, yet it carved out a unique identity.

• European Rivals: Its main competitors included the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, BMW X5 M, Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, and Land Rover Range Rover Sport SVR. While these European counterparts offered sophisticated dynamics and luxurious interiors, none could match the sheer brute force and raw power of the Trackhawk’s Hellcat engine.
• The American Muscle SUV: The Trackhawk’s appeal lay in its unapologetically American muscle car ethos fused with SUV practicality. It offered supercar-level acceleration and top speed at a significantly lower price point than many of its European rivals, making high-performance accessible to a broader audience. Its unique blend of utility and extreme power made it a segment disruptor.

Owning a Trackhawk: Considerations for High Performance

Owning a vehicle capable of 180 mph comes with certain practical considerations beyond the thrill.

• Fuel Economy: The supercharged V8 is incredibly thirsty, especially when driven enthusiastically. Expect single-digit MPG figures when pushing its limits. EPA ratings were around 11 mpg city / 17 mpg highway.
• Maintenance: High-performance components often require more frequent and specialized maintenance. This includes oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations.
• Tire Wear: The immense power and torque, combined with the vehicle’s weight, will lead to accelerated tire wear, especially if regularly subjected to hard acceleration or track driving. Performance tires are also more expensive to replace.
• Insurance Costs: Due to its high performance and high initial value, insurance premiums for a Trackhawk can be significantly higher than for a standard SUV.
• The Balance: The Trackhawk beautifully balances its insane performance with everyday usability. It retains the Grand Cherokee’s comfortable interior, ample cargo space, and capability for light off-roading or towing, making it a truly versatile super-SUV.

Practical Advice and Actionable Insights

For those captivated by the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk’s top speed and performance, here are some practical insights:

• Respect the Power: The Trackhawk is not a toy. Its immense power demands respect and responsible driving. Never disable electronic aids like traction control or stability control on public roads.
• Track Days are Your Friend: To truly experience the Trackhawk’s capabilities, including its top speed and acceleration, seek out organized track days or performance driving events. These provide a safe and legal environment to explore the vehicle’s limits.
• Invest in Driver Training: Consider enrolling in advanced driving courses. Learning proper high-speed driving techniques, braking points, and car control will enhance your enjoyment and safety.
• Regular Maintenance is Key: Adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. Given the stresses on the engine, transmission, and braking system, proactive maintenance is vital for longevity and continued performance.
• Tire Choice Matters: If you plan on performance driving, invest in the optional Pirelli P Zero tires or similar high-performance summer tires for optimal grip and handling.

2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Key Specifications & Original MSRP

To provide a clear overview of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk’s performance and initial market positioning, here is a summary of its key specifications and original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP).

Feature / Specification	Detail
Engine	Supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8
Horsepower	707 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque	645 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm
Transmission	8-speed automatic (TorqueFlite 8HP95)
Drivetrain	Quadra-Trac Active On-Demand 4×4
0-60 mph (0-97 km/h)	3.5 seconds
1/4 Mile Time	11.6 seconds
Top Speed	180 mph (290 km/h)
Brakes	Brembo high-performance (Front: 15.75-inch rotors; Rear: 13.78-inch rotors)
Suspension	Adaptive Damping (Bilstein)
Tires (Standard)	295/45ZR20 Pirelli Scorpion Verde All-Season
Tires (Optional)	295/45ZR20 Pirelli P Zero Three-Season
Curb Weight	~5,363 lbs (2,433 kg)
Original MSRP (Base)	Approximately $85,900 (before destination fees, options, and taxes)
Fuel Economy (EPA est.)	11 MPG City / 17 MPG Highway / 13 MPG Combined
Towing Capacity	Up to 7,200 lbs (3,266 kg)

Note: The original MSRP can vary based on optional features, packages, and regional pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Top Speed

Q1: What is the official top speed of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk?
A1: The official top speed of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is 180 mph (290 km/h).

Q2: How does an SUV achieve such a high top speed?
A2: It’s primarily due to its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engine, which produces 707 horsepower. This immense power is combined with a robust 8-speed automatic transmission, a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, optimized aerodynamics, and a performance-tuned suspension and braking system, all designed to handle and sustain high velocities.

Q3: Is the Trackhawk’s top speed electronically limited?
A3: No, unlike many performance vehicles that are electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h), the Trackhawk’s 180 mph top speed is its true maximum, unrestricted by electronic governors.

Q4: How does the Trackhawk’s top speed compare to other performance SUVs?
A4: At 180 mph, the Trackhawk was among the fastest SUVs in the world at its launch, often surpassing the top speeds of rivals like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, BMW X5 M, and Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, which typically hover around 155-175 mph.

Q5: Is it safe to drive the Trackhawk at its top speed?
A5: While the Trackhawk is engineered to be stable at high speeds, reaching its top speed is only safe and legal on a closed course, such as a professional race track or test facility, under controlled conditions. It is extremely dangerous and illegal to attempt such speeds on public roads.

Q6: What kind of tires does the Trackhawk use to handle its top speed?
A6: The Trackhawk comes standard with 295/45ZR20 Pirelli Scorpion Verde all-season tires, with an optional upgrade to 295/45ZR20 Pirelli P Zero three-season tires, which offer better grip and performance for high-speed driving.

Q7: Does reaching top speed affect fuel consumption significantly?
A7: Yes, operating any vehicle at its maximum speed will drastically increase fuel consumption. The Trackhawk, with its powerful supercharged engine, will consume fuel at a very high rate when driven at or near its top speed.

Q8: What modifications are needed to reach 180 mph?
A8: No modifications are needed. The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is capable of reaching 180 mph directly from the factory, provided it’s in proper working order and on suitable tires.

Conclusion: A Legend of Speed and Power

The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk’s 180 mph top speed is more than just a specification; it’s a defining characteristic that cemented its place in automotive history. It represents a bold statement from Jeep, pushing the boundaries of what an SUV could be. With its colossal 707-horsepower Hellcat engine, sophisticated drivetrain, advanced braking system, and a suite of performance-oriented features, the Trackhawk proved that practicality and blistering speed could coexist in a single, formidable package.

While the thrill of its top speed is largely reserved for the confines of a track, its mere existence transforms the perception of the Grand Cherokee and the entire SUV segment. The Trackhawk is a testament to American engineering prowess, offering an unfiltered, raw, and exhilarating driving experience. It remains a legendary vehicle, a super-SUV that continues to command respect and admiration for its audacious performance and, particularly, for its ability to defy expectations with its incredible top speed. The 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a monument to power, speed, and the sheer joy of pushing limits.