Meet the Jeep Trackhawk
In the automotive world, common sense doesn’t always win, and the Jeep Trackhawk is a prime example of this. But you know what? That’s partly why people love it. It’s an outrageous family SUV, powered by a supercharged V8 that produces a staggering 707 horsepower. That makes it very nearly the quickest production SUV in the world, with only the Lamborghini Urus narrowly beating its vital statistics.
A red Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk on a test track
Photo: Stellantis Media
At a glance, it looks like a Grand Cherokee with a few performance upgrades, but under the bonnet, you’ll quickly discover what gives this beast its reputation. Within sits an engine borrowed from the legendary Hellcat family. An engine that transforms this spacious SUV into a machine that rivals dedicated sports cars for speed.
It still has that usable cargo space, all-wheel drive confidence and the everyday comfort expected from a modern SUV, so whether you’re a long-time performance enthusiast, an off-road adventurer curious about Jeep’s wild side, or simply someone who appreciates unusual vehicles, the Trackhawk remains one of the most memorable SUVs ever produced.
From the Simpson to the High Country
We cover anywhere you can legally go in Australia
The Engine: Supercharged 6.2L V8
The supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine is the heart of the Trackhawk, and it remains one of the most powerful ever fitted to a production SUV. The 707hp (527kW) and 875Nm of torque make the Jeep Trackhawk’s engine genuinely extraordinary.
707hp and What It Means on the Move
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk's supercharged engine
Photo: Stellantis Media
Until rubber meets road, big horsepower numbers can seem abstract. In the Trackhawk, 707hp translates into immediate acceleration, effortless overtaking and a level of responsiveness rarely found in vehicles of this size.
To put it into perspective, the Trackhawk can sprint from 0-100km/h in around 3.5 seconds. So while it may weigh significantly more than most performance cars, it’s firmly in their territory.
The Jeep Trackhawk proves practicality and common sense aren't always the same thing. It's a family SUV with enough space for the weekly shop and enough horsepower to embarrass sports cars at the traffic lights.
How the Supercharger Delivers
Unlike a naturally aspirated engine that builds power progressively through the rev range, the Trackhawk’s twin-screw supercharger helps deliver torque from low engine speeds. This means you can expect an immediate reaction when you need it.
The supercharged V8 works alongside an eight-speed automatic transmission and an advanced all-wheel-drive system. Due to the immense output to the road, the vehicle continuously manages traction, helping to maintain a somewhat predictable behaviour pattern in varying conditions.
Exhaust of a red Jeep Trackhawk
Photo: Stellantis Media
All this speed and power comes at a price, however. The Trackhawk consumes fuel at a noticeable rate and builds up some serious heat when pushed, but for some, that’s part of the appeal. There's a certain pride in filling up at the bowser.
On the Road: Performance and Handling
When most people think of a large SUV, they might think of the space and the utility of the vehicle, with its 0-100km/h time way down the line. But with the Jeep Trackhawk, its 3.5 second time makes it hard to ignore. Thanks to that supercharged V8, a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and launch control technology, the Trackhawk can accelerate with a level of intensity usually reserved for the Ferraris and Porsches of the world.
A red Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk
Photo: Stellantis Media
Using launch control is straightforward. The driver simply selects the feature, applies firm pressure to the brake pedal, floors the accelerator and allows the system to prepare the drivetrain. Once the brake is released, the Trackhawk distributes power across all four wheels, manages wheel slip and launches forward with impressive consistency. It may seem like a dramatic process, but thanks to the vehicle’s electronic systems, it’s surprisingly controlled.
Away from the exciting outright acceleration, the Trackhawk still manages to be a comfortable daily driver. Direct steering, composed body control and effortless highway cruising ensure a smooth drive.
This balance of personalities remains the key reason the Trackhawk continues to occupy such a unique place in the performance SUV world.
Is the Trackhawk a Real Off-Road Vehicle?
This is the question Club 4X4 wants answered. Because Jeep is known for its off-road heritage. The Trackhawk sits on the Grand Cherokee platform, albeit with a supercharged V8, so still benefits from a sophisticated AWD system and the all-weather capability expected from the brand.
The Trackhawk uses a full-time AWD system, designed to manage enormous amounts of torque while maintaining traction across changing surfaces, but lacks a low-range transfer case. But, being a Jeep, the Trackhawk has expanded its range beyond paved roads.
A silver grey Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk near the water at sunset
Photo: Stellantis Media
This means gravel roads, wet bitumen and light trails are easily handled, with the system constantly shifting power to where it’s needed most.
Now, the AWD tag obviously remains, so no, the Trackhawk is not a hardcore off-roader. Large 20-inch wheels, performance tyres and a suspension setup tuned for handling rather than articulation make it less suited to deep ruts or rock crawling. While it retains useful ground clearance and impressive traction management, it’s unlikely to be pointed down a difficult mountain trail too often, especially when that 707 horsepower could be used somewhere a little flatter and more predictable.
So, would we take it off-road? Yes, but not in the traditional sense. It’s best viewed as a performance SUV with some off-road capability in reserve.
Inside the Cabin: Comfort and Tech
The interior of a Jeep Trackhawk with the back seats folded down
Photo: Stellantis Media
As a generously sized SUV, expect room for five adults, supportive seating for long-distance touring and enough cargo room to handle any grocery run or school pickup you can throw at it. It strikes an impressive balance between performance and everyday practicality.
The cabin has an upscale feel, thanks to premium leather and suede-trimmed upholstery, and Trackhawk-specific badging and performance-inspired detail remind occupants that they’re in no Grand Cherokee. In the back, passengers benefit from good leg and headroom, so it can be a practical family SUV when needed.
The technology is equally well executed. Jeep’s Uconnect infotainment system is one of the easier interfaces to use, pairing a responsive touchscreen with straightforward menus and physical controls for key functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration help keep navigation and communication accessible on the move (and the tunes).
Infotainment system of a Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk
Photo: Stellantis Media
The feature list also includes dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and parking assistance technologies. Combined, this makes the Trackhawk a more than comfortable drive.
Specs, Pricing and What You Get
| Specification | Jeep Trackhawk |
|---|---|
| Engine | 6.2L Supercharged V8 |
| Power | 707hp (527kW) |
| Torque | 875Nm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| 0-100km/h | Approx. 3.5 seconds |
| Towing Capcity | 2,948kg |
| Top Speed | Approx. 290km/h |
As we’ve discussed, the Jeep Trackhawk engine delivers supercar-level performance in a practical SUV package. It also has a 2,948kg towing capacity, so it pulls its weight when it comes to towing. It’s more than capable of hauling a boat or camper trailer when adventure calls.
With production ending several years ago, you’ll be looking at the used market for one of these. Values vary significantly depending on mileage, condition, mods and local demand, but the Trackhawk typically occupies the upper end of the performance SUV category.
For an enthusiast who does get their hands on one of these, expect a vehicle that can serve as a daily driver, long-distance tourer, weekend tow vehicle and performance machine.
Covering a Trackhawk for the Adventure Ahead
A Grand Cherokee Supercharged badge on a red vehicle
Photo: Stellantis Media
The Jeep Trackhawk undoubtedly remains one of the most unique SUVs ever built. It combines family-friendly practicality and AWD capability with a supercharged V8. What’s not to love?
For those that want an SUV that can handle daily duties during the week and unforgettable drives on the weekend, few vehicles achieve that balance as effectively.
It's particularly well suited to enthusiasts who have invested in performance modifications, premium accessories, specialist wheels or touring equipment. These upgrades often represent a significant investment beyond the vehicle itself, making suitable insurance cover worth considering before the next adventure begins.
Whether your Trackhawk spends its time towing a boat, heading to remote campsites or simply turning heads on a weekend road trip, comprehensive protection can provide peace-of-mind cover when the unexpected happens.
Club 4X4 policies are designed for passionate vehicle owners and include standard off-road recovery cover, helping support adventures beyond sealed roads. To learn more about the protection available for modified and enthusiast vehicles, visit our specialist 4X4 insurance page and explore cover suited to your build and travel plans.
From the Simpson to the High Country
We cover anywhere you can legally go in Australia
