Jeep Swinging For The Fences With 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8
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The 2006 Grand Cherokee 4x4, setting the stage for the new model we expect to see very soon in New York.
These can be confusing times for auto fans. Some hybrids are fast as stink, some SUVs aren’t really intended to tow anything and some sports coupes weight more than 4,000 lbs. In many ways, we’ve had to recalibrate our expectations for what our cars can do for us.
Early reports are indicating that the same will be true of the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. But the warped expectations about this car’s abilities are more eye-popping than heartbreaking.
Expected to officially debut at the New York Auto Show in a few weeks, the SRT8 could feature a 6.4-liter HEMI engine with up to 470 horsepower, and enough torque to trailer a couple of elephants. No one ever accused Chrysler of being understated. Even in a fuel crisis and green-obsessed industry, the minds in Detroit are still thinking unadulterated power at all costs, bless their hearts.
The earth-shattering part is that the upcoming Cherokee SRT8 seems it will handle itself quite adeptly as a performance car, as well. Estimated figures put the massive SUV’s 0-60mph time around an astonishing four seconds. A five-speed paddle-shift gearbox may seem a bit out of place, but when you’re starting with a boat-sized car that can hit those speeds, every expectation goes pretty much out the window.
Like Car And Driver notes in this article:
Why it matters: It doesn’t really matter, actually. But if it’s half as bodacious as the first Grand Cherokee SRT8, it’ll be the most charmingly absurd (and least fuel efficient) of the all SRT8s.
The Cherokee has always been Jeep’s best combination of utility and civilization, but this edition may take the game to a whole new level. You can expect impressive looks based on current Chrysler design, and a cushy interior considering the company’s improved cabins. All that luxury, plus the pavement-churning performance, in the range just a hair over $45,000 equals a new standard for how an American utility vehicle can look and drive. Especially when you consider that it's only true competitors have names like Audi, Mercedes, BMW and Maserati. Stay tuned for more information as the New York show draws closer.
You can follow Ryan ZumMallen on Twitter at ryanzummallen">@ryanzummallen.
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