Hennessey’s 1200 HP Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Claims To Be The Fastest Accelerating SUV In The World

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is one of the craziest SUVs on the market as the model has a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine that produces 707 hp (527 kW / 716 PS) and 645 lb-ft (873 Nm) of torque. It enables the model to rocket from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 3.5 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 180 mph (289 km/h).

While most consumers are happy with performance that can shame a Porsche Cayenne Turbo, John Hennessey isn’t one of them. Instead, his company has introduced an upgraded Trackhawk which produces an estimated 1,200 hp (894 kW / 1216 PS) and 1,000 lb-ft (1,354 Nm) of torque.

Thanks to the extra power, the Grand Cherokee hits 60 mph (96 km/h) in 2.3 seconds and can eventually top out at speeds in excess of 200 mph (321 km/h). The model can also run the quarter mile in 9.6 seconds at 145 mph (233 km/h). It’s so fast that Hennessey claims the Trackhawk is the “quickest accelerating SUV in the world.”

In order to achieve these insane numbers, the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk has been equipped with the HPE1200 engine upgrade package which includes a massive 4.5-liter supercharger. The package also adds forged aluminum pistons and connecting rods as well as ported cylinder heads and a new camshaft. The company also installs an upgraded throttle body, a high-flow air induction system and long tube stainless steel headers – among other things.

Thanks to these upgrades, the engine develops 1,003 hp (748 kW / 1016 PS) and 892 lb-ft (1,208 Nm) of torque at the wheels when running on 109 octane fuel. Hennessey says the resulting driveline loss means the motor actually produces more than its quoted output of 1,200 hp (894 kW / 1216 PS) and 1,000 lb-ft (1,354 Nm) of torque.

Regardless of the final numbers, pricing starts at $179,000 (£136,057 / €154,575) and includes a new 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. Production will be limited to 24 units and all will come equipped with Nitto 555R 275/40-20 drag radial tires. The model also has a unique feature which enables the Trackhawk to switch between rear- and all-wheel drive on demand.