2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8: Still a Jeep -- kind of
My recent drive in the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 confirmed that old axiom -- you can fix almost anything with more power. In this case the power almost makes me forget about the cramped rear seat, buzzy steering and trucky ride quality. That 6.1 Hemi provides a wide torque band with a peak of 420 lb-ft (and 420 hp), giving this vehicle Cayenne Turbo-trumping acceleration for half the price. Sure, the Turbo has got 100 horsepower on the Jeep, but the Jeep has 800 lbs on the Cayenne. Colin Chapman's philosophy still applies, even when you're talking two-plus ton SUVs...
I appreciate what the SRT8 version is trying to do, but for me it holds little appeal. Obviously, with a lowered ride height and 20-inch wheels, it can't go off-road, so it's basically a rapid station wagon -- and still heavy by station wagon standards. Bottom line, there are plenty of other rapid station wagons out there I'd rather drive, most of them with superior steering feel, handling, ride quality and interior space. This car is really meant for Jeep fanatics who would rather go fast than go off road (which immediately strikes me as contradictory...)
It seems to me that the SRT-8 Jeep is one of the more sought after vehicles in Chryslers line-up of SRT vehicles. This isn't scientific but I have seen te SRT-10 Trucks being discounted as well as the Magnum SRT-8 but have not really seen the Jeep discounted. My personal opinion is that the SRT-8 Magnum is the best buy if you want a high powered full size vehicle.
I, too, see little point for an SRT Cherokee especially when there's an SRT Magnum. Again, this goes along with the crossover/SUV safety compared to cars thing.
I think it is cool though. I always think it's neat to see companies produce unusual things like this. Kind of like the Roadrunner Superbird.
I'm not a big fan of the current grand Cherokee but some reason I really like the look of the SRT8. I agree it's not the most practical choice but it sure would be a fun toy (that would also do duty as a family wagon)
Karl, what are all those other rapid station wagons you're so keen on driving? Are they Volvos, Saabs, MBs, BMWs, or maybe something electrical?
First of all, who CARES what you think Karl?! You are right, the SRT8 Jeep IS meant for "Jeep" Fanatics...and speed fanatics who need extra space. Fact is, this "2 ton plus station wagon" as you call it, is faster, handles better, and offer more interior comfort than most sports cars. I understand you may not be a fan of a vehicle designed, tested, and driven by muscle car enthusiasts. So just hop back in your Toyota Camry and cruise on over to the Gap and buy a new sweater or two.
I'll give you ride quality, but handling, steering, & interior space? What are these magic rapid wagons that you speak of.
The point of the SRT8 is to go shockingly fast while being different and making the owners of these rapid wagons shake they're heads in disbelief.
The jeep isn't for pansies and if you don't get it, you never will.
Karl,
I have a Jeep SRT8 and I love it. I certainly knew what I was getting when I purchased it. As a writer, may I make a few suggestions?
"Bottom line, there are plenty of other rapid station wagons out there I'd rather drive, most of them with superior steering feel, handling, ride quality and interior space."
If you're going to make a statement like the one above, list a few of the rapid station wagons as examples.
"This car is really meant for Jeep fanatics who would rather go fast than go off road (which immediately strikes me as contradictory...)"
While I agree with you that making an AWD Jeep that can't go offroad is a little weird, the Jeep is not made for hardcore Jeep enthusiasts; it's made for anyone who wants a truly unique truck.
And since you slammed my truck, I need to slam your writing. "Contradictory" is the wrong word to have used in your article. You should have used paradoxical or ironic. Please get in your 2003 Saturn, drive to the mall, and purchase a dictionary.
"...This car is really meant for Jeep fanatics who would rather go fast than go off road..."
Uhhh, Duhhh!!!!!!!! Dohhh!!!!!!!!! Duhhh!!!!!!
Gee, do you think that MAYBE, just MAYBE, that was THE REASON it was built?????
Karl, I hope that reviewing cars/trucks is not your day job, or your night job for that matter.
Karl,
I'm sure you drove the GCSRT8, if so, you can't compare apples and oranges. The GCSRT8 is what it is but "still a Jeep" is not what it is. To go off road with a vehicle such as this would be a sin. Who would buy it for that reason? You should retest the 2008 GCSRT8 and evalueate it for what it is not for what it isn't. In the Automotive Industry there is not a vehicle to compare it to, so I say again look at it for what it is and I think you will have a different opinion. Hell I have trouble calling it a Jeep, the SRT People took a Jeep GC and put an SRT under it.
Wow, lots of flame on this one. I think Karl makes some valid points, I guess he underestimated how "fanatical" jeep fans are.
Mango... the reason we read the blog is because we care what Karl thinks...
I think the reason you are getting so much heat is because you are pinning the jeep as obsolete, and not giving it the opportunity as a competitor.
Karl,
I agree with the others. What are these other station wagons? I have a family and my wife doesnt drive. I also like performance cars so what are the options? I love station wagons but here in the US (unlike europe and Japan performance station wagons are non existent or too expensive). I had a AUDI A4...too slow. Then a Subaru Forester XT (no STI available in the US). Its suspension was too soft. So I upgraded the suspension but still did'nt like it. I wanted wagon (S4 or S6) but these were too expensive. Then I finally settled on a 2008 GC SRT8. I have had it for 6 months and have abosolutely no regrets. Just fantastic. So next time do your research....THERE ARE NO MAGICAL WAGONS IN THE USA FOR THAT PRICE POINT