Jeep has launched the most powerful series production SUV to go on sale yet at the New York Motor Show. Called the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, it’s a 707bhp brute that can out accelerate a Range Rover SVR, Bentley Bentayga and a Porsche Cayenne Turbo S.

Using a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 that’s shared with the Dodge challenger SRT Hellcat, the Trackhawk also delivers 645lb ft of torque. The thick-chinned SUV can sprint from 0-100kph in 3.5sec – identical to a Jaguar F-Type SVR – and tops out at 180mph (288kph).

By comparison, the quickest of the aforementioned SUVs, the W12- engined Bentayga, is down on power by 107bhp and needs an extra half a second to hit 100kph. Although admittedly the luxury British SUV can make it to 187mph…

“Long recognized as the full-size SUV capability leader, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is now the most powerful and quickest SUV as well, with the introduction of our new 707-horsepower Trackhawk,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global. “The new Grand Cherokee Trackhawk delivers astounding performance numbers, backed by renowned SRT engineering that combines world-class on-road driving dynamics with luxury, refinement and an array of innovative advanced technology.”  

The Trackhawk uses an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends drive to all four wheels. An electronic limited-slip differential and beefed up rear axle work with the car’s launch control to enable its sports car-aping acceleration.

Braking is handled by Brembo 400mm front and 350mm rear discs that work with six and four-piston calipers respectively. The car sits on Bilstein adaptive dampers that can be adjusted through five drive modes, and 20-inch alloy wheels with 295-width Pirelli tyres.

To signify its muscle, the Trackhawk wears thick bumpers and a roof spoiler, and it sports quad-exit exhausts. Inside, deeply bolstered leather seats are accompanied by a 7in digital instrument cluster and 8.4-inch touchscreen, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto included.

The Trackhawk will sit above the 462bhp Grand Cherokee SRT, the current most potent Jeep, in the range.

Also read: Made-in-India Jeep Compass looks to ride SUV sales boom