Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trailhawk recognized with esteemed award from leading off-road enthusiast publication

• Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trailhawk recognized with esteemed award from leading off-road enthusiast publication
• Grand Cherokee Trailhawk models are equipped with an array of off-road features that make it the most capable factory-produced Jeep Grand Cherokee ever
• Jeep Grand Cherokee is the most awarded SUV ever

The 2017 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trailhawk – the most capable Grand Cherokee ever – has been named FOUR WHEELER “2017 SUV of the Year.” The award is given annually by the editors of the opinion-leading off-road enthusiast publication.

“The addition of the Trailhawk to the Grand Cherokee model lineup is yet another example of Jeep’s commitment to producing vehicles that are just as nimble and capable in the dirt as they are on the paved road,” said FOUR WHEELER Editor Ken Brubaker.

“The Trailhawk model, which includes a unique version of Grand Cherokee’s Quadra-Lift air suspension to improve articulation and suspension travel, takes a capable vehicle and makes it even better. In addition to the great functional upgrades, the Trailhawk package adds a number of visual tweaks to create a handsome and rugged appearance.”  

Over the course of a week, FOUR WHEELER’s judges conducted a variety of tests spanning more than 1,000 miles of terrain that included pavement, gravel, dirt, sand, rocks, mud and snow at elevations ranging from sea level to more than 9,000 feet. 

During the off-road portion of testing, judges evaluated visibility from the driver seat, four-wheel-drive system selection and performance, tire performance and durability, engine power and cooling, transmission function and cooling, suspension tuning and performance and traction control system function. 

Judges spent time on-road evaluating driving characteristics, such as handling, ride quality, interior comfort and steering feel. Other factors also taken into consideration include price, fuel efficiency, tire size and ramp travel index (RTI), which tests suspension articulation.

“Our new Trailhawk model is the most capable Grand Cherokee ever produced, and we’re delighted the FOUR WHEELER editors have recognized its outstanding combination of off-road features,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global. 

“Trailhawk instantly provided Grand Cherokee customers even more legendary Jeep 4x4 capability, quickly becoming one of the fastest-selling and most sought-after models in our lineup.”

Jeep Grand Cherokee sales increased 8 percent in 2016.