No, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk and various Dodge Hellcat models are generally considered to be equally matched in terms of raw speed and acceleration, or have negligible differences that depend on specific conditions.
The performance distinction between these high-horsepower vehicles is often marginal and highly dependent on the specific Hellcat variant being compared, as well as the driving conditions.
Understanding the Power Behind the Beasts
Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk and Dodge Hellcat models, including the Challenger, Charger, and Durango Hellcat, share the heart of their performance: the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® V8 engine. This common powerplant is the primary reason for their similar capabilities.
For instance, when comparing the Trackhawk to the Durango Hellcat, they are essentially twins in terms of power delivery. Both offer identical horsepower and similar acceleration times, which makes them equally matched in terms of raw performance.
Key Performance Comparisons
While the core engine is the same, subtle differences in vehicle type, weight, and drivetrain can lead to variations in real-world performance metrics.
| Feature | Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk | Dodge Challenger/Charger Hellcat | Dodge Durango Hellcat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | SUV | Performance Coupe/Sedan | SUV |
| Engine | Supercharged 6.2L HEMI® V8 | Supercharged 6.2L HEMI® V8 | Supercharged 6.2L HEMI® V8 |
| Horsepower | 707 HP | 717 – 807 HP (depending on model/year/trim) | 710 HP |
| Torque | 645 lb-ft | 650 – 707 lb-ft (depending on model/year/trim) | 645 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| 0-60 mph (approx.) | 3.5 seconds | 3.4 – 3.7 seconds | 3.5 seconds |
| Top Speed (approx.) | 180 mph | 196 – 203 mph | 180 mph |
| Weight | Heavier (SUV) | Lighter (Car) | Heavier (SUV) |
(Note: Performance figures are approximate and can vary based on specific model year, trim, and conditions.)
Factors Influencing Performance
Several factors contribute to the subtle differences in speed and acceleration:
- Weight: SUVs like the Trackhawk and Durango Hellcat are inherently heavier than the Charger or Challenger Hellcats. This increased weight can impact straight-line acceleration and top speed, requiring more power to achieve the same performance as a lighter vehicle.
- Drivetrain: The Trackhawk and Durango Hellcat benefit from All-Wheel Drive (AWD), which allows for superior traction off the line. This often translates to quicker 0-60 mph times, especially in less-than-ideal conditions, compared to the Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Challenger and Charger Hellcats. However, RWD cars can sometimes achieve higher top speeds due to less parasitic drivetrain loss and potentially better aerodynamics.
- Aerodynamics: Performance coupes and sedans (Challenger, Charger) are typically more aerodynamic than SUVs (Trackhawk, Durango Hellcat), which can give them an advantage in top-end speed.
- Power Output Variations: While sharing the same base engine, specific tuning and model variations mean that some Hellcat cars (especially higher trims like Redeye or Super Stock) can have a higher horsepower output than the Trackhawk.
In conclusion, while the Trackhawk boasts impressive SUV performance, it does not definitively outperform all Hellcat models. Against the Durango Hellcat, they are virtually identical in speed. Against the RWD Hellcat cars, the Trackhawk might launch quicker due to AWD, but those cars may have a higher top speed.
