Jeep has revived its off road-oriented Trailhawk badge for the brand’s updated 2017 Grand Cherokee, which debuts today at the 2016 New York Auto Show.
With a moniker last used on the 2014 Grand Cherokee (although also offered on the smaller Cherokee), the Trailhawk model appears to slot in somewhere between the Laredo and Limited trim grades. Its main purpose is to improve the SUV’s capability when the going gets rough.
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All Trailhawks will include the brand’s Quandra-Drive II transfer case and 4x4 system and an electronic limited slip rear differential. Building on those features, the Trailhawk gets its own version of the brand’s Quadra-Lift air suspension designed to improve wheel articulation off road.
At its highest setting, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk boasts a 29.8 degree approach angle. Remove the lower part of its front fascia and that figure skyrockets to 36.1 degrees. A departure angle of 22.8 degrees and a breakover angle of 27.1 degrees are also made possible by the air suspension.
Running ground clearance of the Trailhawk is an impressive 10.8 inches when outfitted with the standard 3.6-liter V-6 and the optional 20-in alloy wheels. Jeep hasn’t noted ground clearance for the available 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6 or the 5.7-liter V-8 engine options, however.
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Additionally, the Trailhawk also includes as standard Selec-Speed Control with Hill Ascent Control that works with the vehicle’s anti-lock braking system to keep the vehicle moving at a set speed up and down hills.
To keep the underbody protected from the elements, skid plates will be fitted to all Trailhawks.
Trailhawk will look the part thanks to its special red tow hooks and a black anti-glare hood decal. As you might expect, red-accented Trailhawk badging will be festooned all over the Jeep.
On the rubber front, 18-in wheels wrapped in Goodyear Adventure tires come as standard, while 20-in units are optional.
Inside, the changes are limited to model-specific leather and synthetic suede seat coverings, brushed piano black dash appliques, and red stitching.
Jeep says the 2017 Grand Cherokee Trailhawk will hit the market this summer. Pricing is likely to be announced shortly before Trailhawks hit dealer showrooms.
For more from the New York Auto Show, head to our dedicated hub.
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