Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

Part racing car and part SUV.. the awesomely powerful Jeep SRT 8 fits both bills .

With a growling V8 super car exhaust note from its six point four litre V 8 booming , (it is loud) the lowered and much modified Grand Cherokee will sprint to 100 kilometres an hour in about five seconds, accompanied by neck snapping g forces as you hurtle down the road.

It's something you will want to do time and time again just to listen to that sensational engine.

Some 25 mm lower than its more plebian siblings the SRT 8 Jeep is a performance powerhouse. 344  KW and 625  nm of torque.

While those who buy this car won't care too much about the fuel bill, they need to know it uses about 17 litres per 100 kays with regular driving around town. That's a significant thirst and if pushed to full throttle occasionally, that figure will rise to over 20 litres per 100 k.

You will certainly be noticed in this beast.. aggressive bonnet scoops and scalloped front bumper with daytime running lights leave no doubt to those in front what's about to overtake them.

The interior is a very pleasant place to be, with a panoramic glass roof , the front opens as a normal sunroof, and there's a roller blind to shield you on hot days.

Front seats are leather with  suede inserts and are heated and chilled and  quite comfortable., but with a stiffer than normal suspension you will still feel every crack in the road. 

The 20 " wheels and 45 series flat tyres don't assist in ride comfort.

It's unlikely they will ever be put to the test off road, although with the Jeep heritage, that's yet another capability you might be encouraged to use. 

The sound system has more than a dozen speakers provide excellent clarity and volume! 

A reversing camera and park alert beepers are standard. As is  the power tailgate which rises and closes at a touch of the keyfob button. 

Gigantic Brembo brakes help slow the car in an instant.

The heavy SRT 8 is almost nimble through corners on the open road .. there's very little body roll, thanks to its lower ride height... and can be punted enthusiastically.

However you will also see the fuel gauge begin to plummet if you do.

There's only one stalk on the left of the steering column for wipers and indicators,as per other Chrysler models such as the 300 sedan. It's easy to get used to.

Why would you buy it? Well if you want stunning performance and in your face styling from your vehicle with the bonus of the odd off road trip this hot rod is made for you.
Peter Sellen

Peter Sellen