Posted on: Jan 14, 2013 | 25,397 reads

Jeep Releases New Cherokee SRT

Jeep replaces the Grand Cherokee SRT8 with the new SRT model, coupling the latest eight-speed automatic transmission to its 6.4-liter Hemi V8.

Jeep just released the newly updated Grand Cherokee in Detroit, bearing a number of enhancements over the model it replaces. It can be specified with a V6, a V8 or - for the first time - a diesel. But what enthusiasts will be more excited about is the SRT model. The changes made to the entire Grand Cherokee line are admittedly minor, but with 470 horsepower on tap, it's still one beast of a truck. As you might have noticed, Jeep has shortened the SRT8 badge from the previous model, but the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 carries over unchanged.

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Like the rest of the GC line, the SRT's Hemi is now mated to an eight-speed automatic (replacing the old five-speed), now fitted with redesigned paddles on the steering wheel. Performance is said to be slightly improved over the SRT8, which ran to 60 in about five seconds flat, while the new transmission allows for a greatly improved towing capacity of 7200 lbs instead of 5000 in the outgoing model. It's also got a new Eco mode that deactivates half the cylinders when they're not needed. Visually, the SRT model has a blacked-out version of the 2014 Grand Cherokee's new seven-slot grille, narrower headlamps and lower fascia.

There's also new 20-inch wheels and a new rear spoiler. Inside, the dashboard swallows up the larger 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment interface available on the base GC, but also displays performance telemetry should drivers feel the urge to take their muscle-truck to the track. Pricing hasn't been announced, but we wouldn't expect it to change significantly over the $60,000 SRT8 it succeeds.