2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Photos, engines & full specs

Jeep introduced the second generation of the SRT8 lineup in 2012 as the high-performance version of the WK Grand Cherokee.

The American automaker noticed that customers were more attracted to higher-powered SUVs, such as the Porsche Cayenne, BMW X5, or Mercedes-Benz ML with AMG engines, and so it considered offering something to please its customers. Thus, starting with the third generation of the Grand Cherokee, Jeep offered a special version that was more powerful and street-oriented than its stablemates. Things evolved quickly, though, and in 2012 introduced, the second generation of the SRT8. The name came from the Street and Racing Technology department that worked on the car. It was a sort of an AMG or M Power for Chrysler.

With its meaner look, the 2013 Grand Cherokee SRT looked like a street fighter compared to the rest of its siblings. Its ground clearance was lower, and the broad lower grille in the front bumper looked business. The five-spoke alloy wheels exposed the red brake calipers and large rotors from its profile. Finally, at the back, a roof spoiler adorned the top of the tailgate while a pair of big and round pipes peaked from under the bumper.

Inside, the high-powered version sported aluminum-looking trims on the center console and stack. At the same time, the steering wheel sported the SRT badge on the airbag's cover instead of the Jeep's. Moreover, the same three letters were embroidered on the high-bolstered front seats. As a clear statement of its performance, on the center console, Jeep installed a rotary knob that adjusted

the car's driving modes that also included a launch-control function.

Under the hood, the automaker installed a supercharged 6.4-liter V8 Hemi engine that provided 471 hp (477 PS) that sent into all corners via an eight-speed automatic transmission.