Jeep vehicles are synonymous with extreme off-road capabilities and toughness. While they have a strong cult following, with so many options, choosing the one that best suits you might be hard. This article will help you make an informed decision by presenting an in-depth comparison of the Jeep Trailhawk vs Trackhawk models.
Before delving any deeper, let’s first look at an overview of the cars.
Jeep Trailhawk Overview: What is it Exactly?
You might already know that the Jeep Trailhawk trim is tied to off-road performance, but what exactly does it bring to the table, and how did it come about? Let’s break it down.
Jeep started as a brand focused on off-roading in the 1980s and 1990s, so it’s easy to assume that anything bearing the Jeep emblem can conquer off-road trails effortlessly.
However, as time passed, it became clear that most brands didn’t want to be confined to a ‘niche’ and sought to appeal to a broader audience by using that very niche as their unique selling point—though the extent to which these off-road capabilities are preserved is up for debate.
As a result, aside from the core off-road lineup like the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator, other models, including the capable Grand Cherokee and Cherokee, have shifted towards a more mainstream ‘comfort and practicality’ focus—or what some might call a more ‘car-like’ feel. Jeep has become synonymous with blending on-road comfort with off-road capability. But the Trailhawk trim takes things up a notch with a range of off-road enhancements.
Which Jeep Vehicles Offer a Trailhawk Version?
Available in Jeep SUVs such as the Renegade, Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Compass, Jeep’s Trailhawk version is designed for the explorer in you.
However, starting in 2023, the Trailhawk trim on the Grand Cherokee is only available with the 4xe plug-in hybrid engine.
The Wrangler and Gladiator are excluded from the Trailhawk line since they offer their own specialized Rubicon trim for off-roading. The full-size Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are also not available in the Trailhawk trim, as they currently prioritize comfort over off-road capabilities.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk: What is Special about the Trailhawk?
Jeep’s Trailhawk models are loaded with off-road features that you won’t find on other trims.
The Grand Cherokee is the most recognized vehicle with the Trailhawk badge. The “Trailhawk” name was added to the Grand Cherokee lineup in 2017, making it the most off-road-capable Grand Cherokee, with the most ground clearance and the best approach, departure, and breakover angles in its class.
Since we’ll be comparing the Trailhawk with the Trackhawk, which was only available until 2021, we’ll focus on the 2021 Grand Cherokee Trailhawk.
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk enhances off-road capability with features like:
- Electronic limited-slip differential
- Specialized 18-inch wheels fitted with all-terrain tires
- Off-road-optimized air suspension
- Drive modes designed for various terrains
- Robust underbody skid plates
- Heavy-duty cooling system for the engine
- Improved 4WD capability and more
Jeep Trackhawk: A Hellcat Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Imagine 700 horsepower packed into a family SUV with supposed off-road credentials. It sounds almost too wild to be true, but Jeep made it happen with the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk.
You might wonder, did Jeep actually install the infamous Hellcat V-8 (707 horsepower) into the Grand Cherokee? The answer is a resounding yes. Launched in the 2018 model year and produced until 2021, this beast comes with upgraded drivetrain components and enhanced cooling systems compared to its less extreme SRT counterpart.
What’s special about the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk?
The Trackhawk stands as the ultimate expression of Jeep’s performance potential. Its 707-hp supercharged Hellcat V-8 delivers astonishing acceleration and a roar that defies local noise regulations.
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is an expletive-inducing thrill ride with a 707-hp supercharged Hellcat V-8 under the hood, it’s not only the most powerful Jeep ever built, it’s one of the most powerful SUVs in the world.
It’s not just the most powerful Jeep ever; it ranks among the most potent SUVs worldwide. While it may not rival sports cars on the racetrack, it certainly excels in straight-line speed. Although the Trackhawk’s price tag is roughly three times higher than a base Grand Cherokee Laredo, its nearly $90,000 cost seems like a bargain compared to competitors like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and Mercedes-AMG GLE63 S.
Beyond its bold exterior and thunderous exhaust, the 2021 Grand Cherokee Trackhawk offers a refined leather interior, cutting-edge technology, practical cargo space, and a towing capacity of 7,200 pounds.
Jeep Trailhawk vs Trackhawk: Head-On Comparison
It’s remarkable how versatile the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup is for a midsize SUV. From the standard family-friendly SUV to the robust off-road Trailhawk trim, and even the exhilarating Trackhawk with over 700 hp, Jeep offers something for every type of driver.
The Trackhawk was available exclusively for the 2021 model year, so our comparison will focus on the 2021 Trailhawk and Trackhawk. Although both models share some features, they cater to different needs.
Let’s dive into a detailed comparison between the Trailhawk and Trackhawk.
Performance and Engine
The Trailhawk’s 291bhp, 3.6-litre V6 engine pulls well and transfers very little vibration into the cockpit. It’s a good fit for the Grand Cherokee’s size, and it performs a good job of propelling this SUV around town and on the interstate.
However, the Trailhawk drivers with a flair for performance would prefer upgrading to the 5.7-litre V-8 engine, which produces 65 horsepower and 130 lb-ft more. The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk has a strong towing capacity—6200 pounds for the V6 and 7200 pounds for the V-8—which increases its utility.
The Trackhawk, on the other hand, is perhaps the coolest Jeep model ever. It’s 707 horsepower 6.2-liter V8 gasoline engine generates mind-blowing acceleration and a soundtrack that is a symphony to an enthusiast’s ears.
The throttle on the ‘Hawk is so sharp that you won’t dare to mat it about town. Its instantaneity should be reserved for long straights.
Even though the T-Hawk weighs more than either of the Dodge Hellcat twins, its enhanced all-wheel-drive system and unique launch control enable it to reach 60 mph in an astounding 3.5 seconds. At the same time, the outstanding 400mm six-piston front and 350mm four-piston rear brakes have your back.
Ride and Handling
The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk has a strong ride and handling, although newer competitors outperform it. It offers a smooth ride and comfortable seats, but the suspension is compromised in the process.
If driving athleticism is something you’re looking for, the Trackhawk is the way to go. It offers excellent, steady handling that can be leveraged on curvy back roads and freeway ramps, and it wouldn’t be out of place on a racetrack as well.
Size and Quality of Wheels
Wider wheels are standard on Grand Cherokee Trackhawaks. For both the front and the back, 20-inch wheels are the normal size. On the other hand, 18-inch wheels are standard on the Trailhawk.
Consequently, each version will have a 2-inch variation. The Trackhawk wins in both wheel quality and overall performance. Other than that, both trims have solid safety features to offer.
Fuel Efficiency
The Trailhawk is a superior option for individuals seeking the highest possible fuel efficiency. This is because the Trailhawk’s combined mileage of 21 MPG is 8 MPG greater than the Trackhawk’s 13 MPG mileage.
Additionally, the Trackhawk and Trailhawk both obtain 11 MPG for city running. The Trailhawk provides 25 MPG on highways, whereas the Trackhawk only manages 17 MPG. If you consider the Trailhawk as a whole, it offers better value.
Body Weight
When it comes to body weight, Trackhawks are heavier. This is the reason why they do better off-road. 5,004 pounds is the base curb weight of the Trailhawk. In contrast, the Trackhawk weighs more at 5356 pounds.
Pricing
The 2021 Grand Cherokee Trailhawk starts at $48,700. However, even though the Trailhawk costs almost twice as much ($91,665), its extraordinary performance makes its over $90K price tag seem high-value.
Jeep Trailhawk Vs. Trackhawk Comparison Summary
Advantages of the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Trim
- Mind-blowing speed
- Higher Towing Capacity
- Wider wheels
- Superior road presence
- A power-packed engine
Advantages of the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Trim
- Comparatively Affordable
- Greater off-road Prowess
- Better Fuel Economy
Now that you know the differences between the two models, here’s a quick recap.
| Key Feature | Jeep Trackhawk (2021) | Jeep Trailhawk (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 6.2L V8 Gas Engine | 3.6L V6 Gas Engine |
| Transmission Type | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | 7,200 | 2,000 |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | City: 11 Highway: 17 Combined: 13 | City: 18 Highway: 25 Combined: 21 |
| Tank Capacity (gallons) | 24.6 | 24.6 |
| Wheels | 20 x 10 inches | 18 x 8 inches |
| Pricing | $88,365 | $47,350 |
Which one is better for you?
Well, both models are decent choices. Therefore, the final decision depends on your personal requirements and preferences. However, here is a simpler answer. If you are a regular off-road rider, the Trailhawk is the one for you, thanks to its improved suspension, all-terrain tires, and greater mileage.
However, if performance, speed, and driving dynamics are more your style, get the Trackhawk. The Trackhawk is designed for the Tracks, and rightfully so, as it has the ultimate power and athleticism found in a Jeep ever.
