2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 at the 2011 New York Auto Show Review and News
- Competes with: Infiniti FX50, Porsche Cayenne
- Looks like: A sleeper that's anything but sleepy
- Drivetrain: 465-hp, 6.4-liter V-8 with five-speed automatic transmission; all-wheel drive
- Hits dealerships: Third quarter 2011
More 2011 New York Auto Show Coverage
Using cylinder deactivation that wasn't previously available on SRT8 versions of the Hemi V-8, the 2012 model is claimed to improve highway mileage by 13 percent despite the increased power. The previous generation achieved an uninspiring 12/16 mpg city/highway. The transmission is a five-speed automatic with AutoStick gear selector plus steering-wheel shift paddles.
The SRT8 is distinguished by LED running lights, a body-colored grille, a gloss-black lower bumper segment and exclusive 20-inch wheels. Around back, 4-inch-diameter dual chrome tailpipes emerge from a gloss-black diffuser. A liftgate spoiler improves aerodynamics.
Interior upgrades include SRT-branded Nappa leather sport seats and steering wheel, carbon-fiber trim and racing-style pedals. The 2012 SRT8 monitors and displays acceleration times, braking distance and g-force.