Over the years, SUVs have gained massive relevance among motorists and car enthusiasts. It’s no wonder the market valuation was estimated to be worth 885.8 billion as of the end of 2022.
Interestingly, among the many SUVs in the market today, the Jeep Trailhawk and Trackhawk seem to have more patronage and favorable reviews. Both are famous for their durability and incredible performance. As a result of this, many SUV enthusiasts find it difficult to decide on which to buy.
If you are in this category, we will clear the air for you in this guide. Below, I will walk you through the top features of both SUVs and their implications on the overall performance of both SUV classes.
Let’s get started!
Jeep Trailhawk
The Jeep Trailhawk is a trim-level SUV available in several models. The Trailhawk is designed primarily for off-roading and would make an excellent consideration for any adventurous driver who loves to explore different terrains and trails.
Below, we consider some unique features of jeeps in the Trailhawk family:
Ground Clearance
Trailhawk jeeps have an impressive ground clearance that helps them to navigate easily over rocks, logs, and other obstacles without scraping the underbody. The 2022 Jeep Compass Trailhawk, for example, has a ground clearance of 225mm.
Skid Plates
Skid plates are another protective feature you will find in all Trailhawk SUVs. They are abrasion-resistant materials affixed to the undercarriage of vehicles to protect mechanical parts like the transfer box, fuel tank, differential, etc. while traversing challenging terrains.
For many cars, the vehicle underside is the most vulnerable area while offroading. But with the skid plates on Trailhawks, the undercarriage is perhaps one of the safest parts.
All-terrain Tires
Factory-installed all-terrain tires on Trailhawk wheels are designed to deliver maximum grip on various surfaces, including mud, gravel, and sand.
Specialized off-road driving modes
The Trailhawk comes with specialized off-road driving modes to further complement its rugged off-roading capabilities. The modes optimize the performance of the electrical, transmission and other systems for excellent performance on any off-road condition.
Jeep Trackhawk
Trackhawk jeeps are sports-oriented SUVs designed specifically for speed enthusiasts. Trackhawks are primarily designed for road trips but you can drive them on trails and rough terrains, Here are some of the top features of a Jeep Trackhawk:
High Top Speed
With a Jeep Trackhawk, you can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 4 seconds, a feat that only a few SUVs can match. And with every system functioning correctly, these sport SUVs can reach a top speed of 180 mph.
Appealing Interior Architecture
On the inside, the Trackhawk’s cabin exudes a luxurious and sporty atmosphere. The space comprises comfortable seats, premium materials, modern technology features, driver assistance systems, and infotainment options.
High-performance Engine
Trackhawks are high-performance SUVs capable of producing up to 700 horsepower while on the move.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk for example, comes with a 6.2 litre V8 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This 8-speed transmission allows drivers to switch between five drive modes (Sport, Snow, Auto, Track and Tow), depending on the driving condition.
With the 6.2 litre displacement, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk engine is able to supply 707 HP at 6,000rpm and a torque of 645lb/ft at 4,800rpm. The cooling, electrical, and other systems in Trackhawk SUVs all have a reputation for high performance and durability.
Upgraded Brembo Braking System
The Trackhawks are equipped with the high-performance Brembo braking system famous for its exceptional stopping power.
Jeep Trailhawk vs. Trackhawk
Although both Trailhawks and Trackhawks have a reputation for good performance, they have several things that set them apart. Below, we highlight six of these distinctive features between the two classes of SUVs:
Performance
A 6.2 liter V8 engine powers the Trackhawk. While on the road, Trackhawk SUVs can produce up to 707 HP and about 645 pounds-feet. Another performance advantage that the Trackhawk has is its high top speed. SUVs in this class are known for reaching as high as 180 mph. And in less than 4 seconds after accelerating, they can reach 60 mph. Trust me – this is no mean feat.
The Trailhawk also has an enormous amount of power to its credit. Its 3,6L V6 engine can drive to a top speed of 137 mph. However, if you are a speed enthusiast, you can upgrade the engine to the 6.2 liter V8 type found in Trackhawk SUVs. With this, you can reach a higher top speed and improve driveability.
Fuel Efficiency
The Trailhawk can achieve 18 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway. These efficiency levels are about 8 miles per gallon more than the Trackhawk can offer.
As for the Trackhawk, it can only deliver 11 miles per gallon in the city and 18 miles per gallon on the highway. Thus, it is safe to say that the Trailhawk offers greater fuel economy.
Towing Capacity
The Jeep Trackhawk has a considerably larger towing capacity of up to 7,200 pounds. On the other hand, the Trailhawk cannot tow as much, but it equally has an impressive towing capacity of up to 6,200 pounds.
Price
On average, Trailhawks have a starting price of about $47,000, while the price of the Trackhawk is almost double that amount. As of the time of writing this review, the starting price of a Jeep Trackhawk is about $88,000.
The significant price difference may seem like a ripoff since both machines have several similar features. However, Trackhawks are better in several aspects, including speed and design. So ‘double power equals double price.
Infotainment System
The Trackhawk offers advanced infotainment systems, premium audio options, and connectivity features that cater for the needs of tech-savvy drivers seeking a more luxurious driving experience. An 8.4-inch touchscreen is provided on the dashboard of most Trackhawk SUVs, which is big enough to view pictures, 3D maps and other graphics while driving.
Although the Trailhawk has advanced infotainment tools and sound systems as well, the Trackhawk wins with its easier connectivity and user-friendliness. With just a few swipes and tappings, you can connect your smartphone to the system. You only need either the Apple Car Play or Android Auto app to connect your device to the infotainment system and you’re good to go.
Wheels
The Trackhawk has a wheel dimension of 20 x 10 inches which is 2 inches higher than the dimensions of the Trailhawk; -it measures 18 x 8 inches. Aside from wider wheels, the Trackhawk tires are often also have higher quality than its counterpart, the Trailhawk.
Which is Better – Trailhawk or Trackhawk?
There are no direct answers to this question, as both SUV categories have excellent reviews from users to their credit. That said, you can decide which to buy by weighing the features in light of your needs and preferences.
Where will you drive the vehicle more – on the road or off-road? As discussed above, Trackhawk is ideal for road users, while Trailhawk is purpose-made for offroading.
Your passion for speed is another factor you need to consider. If the 137 mph top speed of Trailhawk isn’t good enough for you, then Trackhawk will make a better choice.
Finally, Trackhawk will make a better pick if you prioritize performance above other features.
Conclusion
Trackhawk and Trailhawk comparisons will likely be around for a long, mainly because each class appeals to different audiences. While jeep Trailhawks are designed for offroading, Trackhawks are mainly road sporting vehicles. Both are fantastic in terms of driveability, durability, and performance. However, they have several distinctive features.
As a recap, the main features that set them apart include fuel economy, performance, towing capacity, wheel design, infotainment system, and price. You will need to take cognizance of these features properly to choose the best Jeep model that will suit your needs.
