The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, often called the Jeep Hellcat, isn’t your typical SUV. It offers a 6.2-liter powers it supercharged V8 Hellcat engine, the same monster found in Dodge’s Charger and Challenger.
With 707 horsepower and all-wheel drive, this Jeep seamlessly blends high-performance muscle with the practicality of a family SUV.
The “Hellcat” nickname comes from Dodge’s performance lineup, known for outrageous speed and raw power.
Jeep borrowed that DNA to create a beast that can launch from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds – faster than many sports cars.
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about the Trackhawk: its engine, performance stats, handling, tech, reviews, and how it compares to rivals.
No matter if you’re a horsepower junkie or just curious how wild a Jeep can get, you’re in for a thrilling ride.
What Is the Jeep Hellcat?
The Jeep Hellcat or Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is a high-performance version of the Grand Cherokee SUV, first launched for the 2018 model year.
It was Jeep’s boldest move by taking a practical midsize SUV and turning it into a supercharged powerhouse by borrowing one of the most aggressive engines in the automotive world.
What makes it a “Jeep Hellcat” is its 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 engine, straight from Dodge’s Hellcat lineup.
This engine delivers a jaw-dropping 707 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the fastest and most powerful SUVs ever made.
Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and full-time all-wheel drive, it’s capable of 0–60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
The Trackhawk appeals to a very specific crowd – drivers who want SUV space and comfort but crave the performance of a muscle car.
It’s ideal for enthusiasts who want to stand out, enjoy track-level speed, and don’t mind visiting the gas station often.
This is not your average family hauler; it’s a super SUV that turns heads and delivers an adrenaline rush with every press of the pedal.
Jeep Hellcat Engine: Power Under the Hood
At the heart of the Trackhawk is a supercharged 6.2L V8 pushing 707 horsepower.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8 |
| Horsepower / Torque | 707 hp / 645 lb-ft |
| Shared Engine | Same as Dodge Hellcat models |
| Supercharger Type | Twin-screw delivers 11.6 psi boost instantly |
| Acceleration Performance | Instant power delivery, smooth and aggressive |
| Durability Features | Forged pistons, sodium-cooled exhaust valves, reinforced crankshaft |
| Cooling System | After-run chiller and liquid-cooled supercharger |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive (AWD) |
| Power Delivery | Controlled, repeatable, and safe in all conditions |
Built for brutal acceleration and durability, this Hellcat engine combines race-ready components with smart cooling and all-wheel drive, delivering unmatched power in a street-legal SUV.
Performance & Speed: How Fast Is the Jeep Hellcat?
The Trackhawk accelerates from 0–60 mph in 3.5 seconds and hits 180 mph, blending supercar speed with SUV practicality.
- 0 to 60 MPH in 3.5 Seconds: The Trackhawk rockets from 0–60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, thanks to its AWD system and supercharged engine. This acceleration rivals high-end sports cars, delivering an intense launch.
- Quarter-Mile in 11.6 Seconds: The Trackhawk runs the quarter-mile in about 11.6 seconds, combining muscle car power with SUV practicality, proving it’s both fast and family-friendly.
- 180 MPH Top Speed: With a top speed of 180 mph, the Trackhawk maintains high-speed stability thanks to its low center of gravity and refined suspension, which is an impressive feat for any SUV.
- Brembo Brakes: Launch control and Brembo brakes (15.75-inch rotors with 6-piston calipers) provide strong, confident takeoffs and fade-free stopping power, whether you’re hitting the track or cruising the highway.
With launch control, quick shifting, and Brembo brakes, it delivers thrilling, controlled performance whether on the road or at the track.
Jeep Hellcat: Handling and Driving Experience
The Trackhawk isn’t just built for speed; it’s built to handle it. Its smart all-wheel-drive system automatically shifts torque between the front and rear wheels for better grip in corners, during hard acceleration, or in poor weather.
The adaptive suspension with Bilstein dampers adjusts based on drive mode, delivering a firm but composed ride whether you’re on a spirited drive or a daily commute.
Brembo performance brakes, featuring 15.75-inch rotors and six-piston calipers, offer exceptional stopping power and fade resistance, making them ideal for high-speed driving.
On the track, the Trackhawk corners flat and feels balanced. On the street, it stays planted and confident.
While it’s not off-road focused, it dominates pavement with a mix of traction, control, and muscle car aggression.
Design & Styling of the Jeep Hellcat
The Trackhawk combines the muscle car attitude with the refinement of an upscale SUV.
1. Bold Exterior Features
The Trackhawk stands out with a vented hood, gloss-black grille, functional air intakes, and quad exhaust tips.
Wide 20-inch wheels, subtle badging, and aggressive lines give it a muscular look without relying on over-the-top styling cues or gimmicks.
Every design element serves a purpose, blending performance with a clean, confident presence.
2. Upscale, Sporty Interior
Inside, you’ll find leather-trimmed sport seats, contrast stitching, and optional suede or carbon fiber accents.
The cabin combines high-performance design with luxury, offering ventilated seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and premium touches that make it feel refined yet driver-focused.
3. Luxury Meets Muscle
Though built for speed, the Trackhawk doesn’t skip comfort. Heated and ventilated seating, brushed metal details, and soft-touch surfaces elevate the experience.
It’s a space that feels just as suited to long drives as it does high-performance sprints.
4. Distinct from Standard Models
Compared to the base Grand Cherokee, the Trackhawk has a wider stance, unique badging, performance-focused detailing, and aggressive bodywork.
It looks noticeably meaner, more planted, and more purpose-built, clearly a high-performance machine, even before you hear the engine roar.’
5. Quad Exhaust and Rear Spoiler
The rear features four polished exhaust tips that deliver an aggressive sound and visual punch.
A subtle roof-mounted spoiler enhances high-speed stability and adds a sporty touch, completing the Trackhawk’s bold, performance-focused rear design with functional aerodynamic benefits.
Hellcat: Technology and Infotainment Features
From intuitive controls to real-time performance tools and premium entertainment, every feature enhances the driving experience without distracting from the SUV’s thrilling speed.
- Uconnect 4C NAV System: An 8.4-inch touchscreen anchors the dashboard, offering a fast and responsive interface. With easy menus, voice commands, and performance customization, it keeps all key functions within reach.
- Smartphone Integration: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, letting you mirror apps, take calls, and navigate hands-free. The system runs smoothly and feels naturally integrated.
- Built-In Navigation & Performance Pages: Built-in GPS offers crisp, reliable guidance. Meanwhile, Jeep’s Performance Pages display real-time stats, turning your dash into a performance hub.
- Harman Kardon Premium Sound: A 19-speaker system with a 10-inch subwoofer fills the cabin with rich, deep sound. Whether you’re cruising or tearing up the track, it delivers premium audio clarity.
- Digital Driver Display: The customizable gauge cluster is modern and intuitive. It shows speed, tach, and drive modes clearly, updating in real time as you switch from street to sport.
- Extra Cabin Tech: Remote start, keyless entry, USB ports, Bluetooth, and voice controls round out a smart, driver-friendly tech suite that supports both daily use and high-performance fun.
Jeep Hellcat: Safety Features and Ratings
The Trackhawk may be built for speed, but it doesn’t skip on safety.
It includes essential systems like front, side, curtain, and knee airbags, ABS, traction control, and electronic stability control to keep the SUV grounded during high-speed driving or tough conditions.
Optional driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane departure alert, and blind-spot monitoring help prevent accidents before they happen.
For easier low-speed maneuvering, the Trackhawk offers rear parking sensors, a backup camera, and an optional 360° surround-view system.
While it hasn’t been crash-tested as a standalone model, it shares the strong NHTSA and IIHS ratings of the Grand Cherokee.
Backed by Brembo brakes, a rigid frame, and smart AWD, the Trackhawk is engineered to stay safe – even when driven hard.
Price, Availability, and Buying Tips for the Jeep Hellcat
When it launched in 2018, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk initially started at around $86,000; however, many well-equipped models quickly surpassed $100,000.
Production ended in 2021, and with limited availability, it has become a sought-after SUV in the used performance market.
Today, used Trackhawks typically sell for $60,000 to $90,000, depending on mileage, condition, and whether the vehicle has been modified. Low-mileage, unmodified examples hold their value well and often command premium pricing.
- Check for modifications: Aftermarket tuning can affect reliability and may void factory warranties.
- Review maintenance records: Look for a solid service history, especially on brakes and tires, which wear faster due to the Trackhawk’s power.
- Consider extended warranties: Repairs can be expensive, and many buyers opt for additional protection.
- Be prepared for financing challenges: Because of its price and performance classification, lenders may require a larger down payment.
The Trackhawk isn’t a budget buy, but for those wanting Hellcat performance with SUV practicality, it offers standout value in a very exclusive class.
Conclusion
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is one of the boldest SUVs ever built. It delivers supercharged Hellcat power, high-end comfort, and real-world practicality all in one aggressive package.
From its 707-horsepower engine and track-ready speed to its refined interior and advanced tech, the Trackhawk proves you don’t have to choose between performance and utility.
This SUV is for those who crave adrenaline and attention – drivers who want to hear the supercharger whine on the freeway and still have room for family or cargo.
It’s not the most fuel-efficient, and it’s far from subtle, but it’s undeniably exciting.
If you’re ready to experience supercar speed with everyday usability, the Trackhawk could be the perfect ride.
Check out a used listing, schedule a test drive, and see for yourself why the Jeep Hellcat continues to turn heads and drop jaws. It’s not just fast – it’s unforgettable.
