Switching from a beloved Charger Hellcat to a Jeep Hellcat Trackhawk without even a test drive might sound daunting, but for an enthusiast seeking more practicality without sacrificing raw power, it proved to be a calculated risk worth taking. After the anticipation of a two-week wait due to weather and logistics, the Trackhawk finally arrived, and the initial 100 miles, driven mostly in rainy conditions, have revealed some distinct differences compared to its sedan counterpart. Here’s a breakdown of the key observations for anyone considering the jump to the high-performance SUV.
- Distinct Vehicle Dynamics: Truck vs. Car Feel
The most immediate difference lies in the overall vehicle feel. The Jeep Hellcat Trackhawk, unsurprisingly, carries a more pronounced truck-like demeanor in its gear shifts compared to the Charger Hellcat. This isn’t necessarily a negative aspect; in fact, for someone accustomed to driving trucks, like myself with an F250, it’s a familiar and easily adaptable characteristic. It doesn’t feel cumbersome or overly truck-like, but it’s a noticeable shift from the car-like agility of the Charger. Potential buyers shouldn’t be deterred by this; it’s a matter of adjusting to a different kind of performance vehicle.
- Refined Sound Profile: Subtler Exhaust and Supercharger Notes
Enthusiasts often crave the roar of a high-performance engine, and while the Trackhawk delivers power in spades, its auditory experience is slightly more subdued. Both the exhaust note and the supercharger whine are quieter in the Trackhawk compared to the Charger Hellcat. For some, this might be a drawback, but for others, it might be perceived as a touch more refined. While the exhaust is likely to remain stock, the allure of a louder supercharger induction is already on the horizon, hinting at future modifications to amplify the aural thrill.
- Elevated Interior Ambiance: Comfort and Modern Tech
Stepping inside the Jeep Hellcat Trackhawk reveals a clear upgrade in interior quality. The carbon fiber-style trim immediately catches the eye, lending a sporty yet sophisticated touch to the cabin. Beyond aesthetics, the comfort level is significantly enhanced. Once the seats are adjusted to the ideal position, the Trackhawk’s interior becomes a truly pleasant space to spend time in, whether on long drives or short commutes. The updated UConnect system is another welcome improvement, offering a more intuitive and user-friendly infotainment experience.
- Surprisingly Agile Handling: Defying SUV Stereotypes
One of the most impressive aspects of the Jeep Hellcat Trackhawk is how it defies typical SUV handling expectations. Despite its size and higher center of gravity, it doesn’t feel like driving a traditional SUV. The handling and cornering capabilities are remarkably car-like, instilling confidence even during spirited driving. With the initial break-in period still underway, the true test of hard launches is yet to come, but the initial impressions of its agility are overwhelmingly positive.
- Fuel Consumption Reality: Embracing the Thirst
Let’s address the elephant in the room: fuel economy. The Jeep Hellcat Trackhawk is not designed for frugality. Fuel mileage is, in a word, abysmal. The best advice is to simply avoid fixating on the MPG display. This is an inherent characteristic of high-performance vehicles, and it comes with the territory. A mix of city and highway driving has yielded an average of 13.9 MPG in the Trackhawk, compared to a slightly better 16.5 MPG in the Charger Hellcat under similar conditions. Individual driving habits will influence these figures, but expect to visit the gas station frequently.
- Enhanced Wet Weather Confidence: The Advantage of All-Wheel Drive
The switch to all-wheel drive (AWD) in the Trackhawk brings a significant boost in confidence, particularly in wet conditions. In the rear-wheel-drive Charger Hellcat, even moderate throttle input could easily induce wheelspin in the rain. The Trackhawk, with its AWD system, eliminates this issue. While not a primary concern for daily driving in dry conditions, the AWD is a valuable asset in wet or icy environments, providing enhanced traction and control. Living in central Texas might limit exposure to icy conditions, but the wet weather grip is undeniably reassuring.
- Driver Assistance Features: Appreciating the Tech, Disabling the Nags
Modern vehicles are often equipped with driver assistance technologies, and the Trackhawk is no exception. The lane departure warning system, however, proves to be somewhat intrusive and annoying, frequently leading to it being disabled. On the other hand, the collision warning system, especially when cruise control is engaged, is a genuinely useful feature. While not essential, these technologies are part of the package, with the collision warning offering a tangible benefit.
- Unlocking Practicality: The Utilitarian Side of a High-Performance SUV
Beyond sheer performance, the Jeep Hellcat Trackhawk offers a significant increase in practicality. The ability to fold down the rear seats and utilize the expanded cargo space is a major advantage. Whether it’s transporting a dog or hauling gear, the Trackhawk’s utilitarian nature makes it a more versatile daily driver. While vehicle care is a priority, the Trackhawk was purchased to be used and enjoyed in all aspects of daily life, making its practicality a key selling point.
- Torque Converter Feel: Adapting to the Launch Characteristics
From a standstill, the Jeep Hellcat Trackhawk exhibits a sensation of a higher stall speed torque converter compared to the Charger Hellcat. This is likely attributable to the Trackhawk’s increased weight. It’s not a negative characteristic, simply a different feel during initial acceleration. It’s a subtle nuance noticed upon the first drive, but not something that detracts from the overall driving experience.
- Aggressive Gearing: Performance-Oriented Ratios
The Trackhawk’s gearing is noticeably more aggressive than the Charger Hellcat. Cruising at 70 MPH in the Trackhawk results in approximately 2,000 RPM, whereas the Charger Hellcat, based on memory, hovered around 1,600 RPM at the same speed. This shorter gearing contributes to the Trackhawk’s quicker acceleration and responsiveness, aligning with its performance SUV designation.
- Panoramic Sunroof: An Open and Airy Cabin
The dual panoramic sunroof is a welcome feature, adding to the overall sense of spaciousness and luxury within the Trackhawk. Having become accustomed to this feature in an F250, its presence in the Trackhawk is a definite plus. The panoramic sunroof enhances the cabin ambiance, creating a more open and airy environment.
In conclusion, the decision to trade the Charger Hellcat for a Jeep Hellcat Trackhawk has proven to be a satisfying one. The Trackhawk offers a unique blend of exhilarating performance and everyday usability. The utilitarian aspect, combined with the confidence-inspiring AWD, makes it a compelling choice, especially for those seeking a fast and practical four-door vehicle. While subtle differences exist in driving feel and sound profile, the Trackhawk delivers on its promise of high-performance SUV thrills. For anyone considering a high-horsepower machine that can handle both track days and daily duties, the Jeep Hellcat Trackhawk is definitely worth experiencing firsthand. Test driving a Trackhawk is highly recommended to fully appreciate the unique driving dynamics and capabilities it offers compared to other Hellcat models.
