Click to see the contenders: Audi RS Q3 | Audi SQ5 | BMW X5 M | Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT | Lexus NX200t F-Sport | Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG | Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG |
Check out the test summary here (click). Find the drag results here (click). The final verdict is here (click).
Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT
The Jeep SRT is the rebel of this lot. As the only naturally aspirated performance SUV in the line-up, it essentially offers a middle finger to the turbocharged clan, relying on good old cubic capacity to muster some impressive horsepower numbers.
The 6,4-litre HEMI V8 engine has 344 kW and 624 Nm of torque, and revs in a most satisfying manner to 7000r/min. In fact, this engine thrives on high revs, and in that range it sounds like a Nascar, racing at the sharp end of the field.
All in all, the SRT8 is a bit of a ruffian. Compared to its highly efficient and mostly Teutonic competition, kitted out in efficient white lab jackets, the Jeep is like a burly mechanic with chest hair poking through the too-open jacket, rounded off with ham-fisted boxing stance and a bit of a foul mouth.
And we love it! One can’t fault the Teutonic brilliance of the other vehicles, but there is something special about man-handling this brute around a gymkhana course.
In the SRT application, Jeep removed the low-range option and instead features a choice between various driving modes including Auto, Sport and Track. The latter setting, combined with no traction control, sends more power to the rear wheels, so you can actually powerslide this beast around a gymkhana track.
The Grand Cherokee SRT – the most powerful Jeep ever produced – handles and stops quite brilliantly. It’s a surprisingly accomplished all-rounder.
All we can say is… long live the beast!
Vital stats – Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT
Engine: 6417cc, V8 Hemi
Power: 344 kW @ 6250r/min
Torque: 624 Nm @ 4100r/min
Gearbox: Eight-speed auto
Tare weight: 2340kg
Power to weight ratio: 0,14 kW/kg
Drivetrain: Permanent
Electronic aids: Traction/stability, track mode, launch control
Price: R1 099 990
Monthly instalments (approx): R22 582