The first high-performance SUV from Jeep is the Grand Cherokee SRT8, powered by a 6.1-liter Hemi that provides 415 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. Its 0-to-60 times are said to be under five seconds, beating the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and BMW X5. SRT engineers designed a lighter-weight four-wheel-drive system for this Jeep, and also modified the suspension, upgraded the brakes and exhaust, and gave the sport/utility unique front and rear fascia and 20-inch wheels. The 6.1-liter Hemi uses exhaust headers, a 2.75-inch exhaust system with four-inch tips, and a fresh-air induction system that allows for a fording depth of up to 19 inches.
This Hemi has 85 more horsepower than the 5.7-liter version, and is backed by the W5A580 five-speed automatic with the AutoStick feature. Ride height has been lowered one inch from stock Grand Cherokee levels. Other suspension modifications include unique anti-roll bars, SRT-tuned dampers, and new front suspension knuckles. With the optional Mopar hitch package, towing capacity is 3500 pounds. Expect to see the SRT8 in dealerships in fall of this year.