The automotive world is rife with examples of automakers hitting it big with a particular model, only to falter with subsequent iterations. The pressure to maintain, let alone surpass, initial success is immense. This brings us to the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, a vehicle with a formidable legacy to uphold. Having been thoroughly impressed by the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT a few years prior, the question loomed: Could Jeep recapture the magic, or would this 2017 SRT feel like a diluted version of its predecessor? Let’s delve into the details and explore what makes this performance SUV tick.
Front view of a red 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT
Let’s cut to the chase: the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Srt is visually stunning. Even for those who aren’t typically drawn to SUVs, the SRT variant of the Grand Cherokee possesses an undeniable allure that rivals some sports cars. Its design language is assertive, almost menacing, yet avoids being ostentatious. There’s a purposeful aggression to its aesthetics, a refreshing departure from mere stylistic flourishes. Personal preference dictates color choices, but the Velvet Red Pearl coat on this model is particularly captivating, enhancing its already striking presence.
Side view of the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT interior showcasing caramel leather seats
Stepping inside the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT reveals an interior that largely delivers on the promise of luxury and performance hinted at by the exterior. While personal preference leaned slightly towards the all-black interior of the 2015 model previously tested, the caramel-colored leather in this iteration, though aiming for a classic Italian sports car vibe, doesn’t quite resonate as strongly. However, subjective style points aside, the interior craftsmanship is undeniably top-tier, reminiscent of FCA’s finest work, even drawing parallels to Maserati. The seats are a standout feature, offering exceptional support for spirited driving while maintaining remarkable comfort for everyday use. The blend of leather and suede is tastefully executed, and the tactile quality of materials throughout the cabin reinforces the vehicle’s premium price point of $78,355.
For tech and entertainment, the rear-seat dual-screen Blu-Ray/DVD player with wireless headphones is a thoughtful addition, priced at a reasonable $2,000. The dual-pane panoramic sunroof, also a $2,000 option, is undoubtedly impressive and appeals to those who enjoy open-air driving and a contrasting black roofline. However, for performance enthusiasts, that sum might be better allocated to upgrades under the hood. Conversely, the 19-speaker, 825-Watt Harmon Kardon sound system is a genuine auditory treat, delivering crystal-clear audio reproduction even at high volumes, making every drive an immersive experience.
Close up of the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT engine bay showcasing the 6.4L HEMI V8 engine
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: the performance of the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT. Just like its predecessor, this SUV is an absolute rocket on wheels. Packing a robust 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, the 6.4L HEMI V8 engine propels this 5,291 lb behemoth from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds, and on to a quarter-mile time of 13 seconds at 106 mph. These figures aren’t just “quick for an SUV”; they’re unequivocally fast, period. Accompanying these impressive numbers is the visceral roar of the 6.4L HEMI V8, a soundtrack that amplifies the thrill of driving. Furthermore, the launch control feature is not just a gimmick; it’s a genuinely exhilarating experience that unleashes the full potential of the powertrain with each activation. The performance is consistently thrilling, offering a repeatable adrenaline rush every time you engage it.
Unleashing More Power: SRT Modifications
While the 2017 Grand Cherokee SRT boasts impressive performance straight from the factory, the aftermarket offers avenues to elevate it even further. Typically, with vehicles this potent, suspension enhancements would be a primary focus. However, with the optional factory-available $1,295 Brembo big brake kit being a highly recommended box to tick, attention can be shifted towards extracting even more power from the 6.4L V8.
For those with a more expansive budget, turbocharger and supercharger kits are available that can transform the Grand Cherokee SRT into a genuine supercar slayer. Even conservative setups can push output beyond 600 horsepower, dropping the 0-60 mph time into the sub-four-second range, placing it firmly in elite performance territory.
For enthusiasts mindful of budget and warranty considerations, a more aggressive exhaust system is an excellent upgrade. The HEMI V8 is inherently sonorous, and a free-flowing exhaust system, combined with a performance air intake, can liberate its voice, giving the SRT the auditory presence it deserves to match its blistering performance.
Rear three quarter view of a red 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT showcasing its sporty stance
Final Verdict: The 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Still Reigns Supreme
Finding fault with the 2017 Grand Cherokee SRT is a challenging task. Personal preferences might lead to different interior color choices or the omission of the sunroof, but fundamentally, it represents a near-perfect blend of practicality and raw performance. At a starting price in the mid $60,000s (base price of $66,795), climbing to the $78,000 range with options, it’s not an inexpensive vehicle. However, when juxtaposed with its German counterparts in the luxury performance SUV segment, the price differential becomes strikingly apparent, offering significant value for the performance and features on offer.
Concerns about whether the 2017 model would live up to the benchmark set by the 2015 Grand Cherokee SRT proved unfounded. Jeep has wisely maintained the core DNA that made the earlier model so compelling, with both iterations sharing virtually identical underpinnings and performance characteristics. This continuity is a testament to the original formula’s brilliance. What was exceptional two years prior remains exceptional today. In the realm of luxury performance SUVs, the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT continues to stand as a benchmark, arguably unmatched in its blend of attributes.
