Market Position:
The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 was positioned as a high-performance, luxury SUV, blending the rugged capability of the Grand Cherokee with the track-tuned prowess of Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) division.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other performance SUVs such as the BMW X5 M, BMW X6 M, Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG, and Porsche Cayenne Turbo. It offered a unique blend of American muscle car attitude within the SUV segment.
Key Features:
Exclusive SRT8 styling cues, enhanced suspension, powerful HEMI V8 engine, performance-oriented interior, advanced SRT driving modes, and premium features expected in a luxury SUV.
Systems Covered:
Powertrain (engine, transmission, drivetrain), Chassis (suspension, steering, brakes), Electrical System (lighting, power outlets, fuses), Climate Control, Infotainment, Safety Systems (airbags, seatbelts, ABS, ESC), Vehicle Operations, Security, Maintenance and Care.
Procedures Included:
Daily checks, fluid level checks, tire pressure monitoring, basic warning light interpretation, fuel information, proper operation of vehicle features, basic troubleshooting tips, emergency procedures, maintenance schedule overview.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive user-level operational and maintenance guidance. Focuses on understanding and utilizing vehicle features, performing owner-level maintenance, and recognizing potential issues. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures or repair instructions typical of a service manual.
Engine Displacement:
6.4 Liters (392 cubic inches)
Engine Configuration:
Naturally Aspirated V8 (HEMI)
Horsepower Hp:
470 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Lb Ft:
465 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Fuel Induction:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type Required:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Engine Management System:
Multi-Displacement System (MDS) for fuel economy under light load.
Length:
194.6 inches (4943 mm)
Width:
76.5 inches (1943 mm)
Height:
69.4 inches (1763 mm)
Wheelbase:
114.8 inches (2916 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:
35.1 cu ft (994 L)
Cargo Volume Maximum:
70.9 cu ft (2008 L)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 5,171 lbs (2346 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 6,500 lbs (2948 kg)
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:
4-Star (for 2012 models generally, specific SRT8 ratings may vary)
Active Safety Features:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Roll Mitigation, Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Brake Assist, Trailer Sway Control, Hill Start Assist.
Passive Safety Features:
Advanced Multi-Stage Front Airbags, Supplemental Side-Curtain Airbags (front and rear), Supplemental Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags, Driver's Knee Airbag, Active Head Restraints, Crumple Zones.
Front Brakes:
Vented 15.9-inch (405mm) Brembo discs with 6-piston calipers
Rear Brakes:
Vented 13.8-inch (350mm) Brembo discs with 4-piston calipers
Infotainment System:
Uconnect® touch-screen system with 8.4-inch display (standard), navigation, AM/FM/CD/DVD/MP3 player, Hard Drive, SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Audio System:
Harman Kardon® premium audio system with 19 speakers and 900-watt amplifier.
Driver Assistance Features:
ParkView® Rear Back-Up Camera, ParkSense® Front and Rear Park Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with mitigation, Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross-Path Detection (RCPD).
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth® streaming audio and hands-free calling, USB ports, SD card reader, Auxiliary audio input.
Srt Performance Pages:
Integrated system allowing drivers to monitor real-time performance metrics, customize suspension and powertrain settings, and access launch control.
Drive Modes:
Track, Sport, Auto, Snow, Tow modes impacting transmission shift points, ESC, AWD system, and throttle response.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or as indicated by the oil change indicator system. Refer to the manual for exact intervals based on driving conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km).
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 2-3 years or as recommended by a qualified technician.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (Meets Chrysler MS-10850 specification, refer to manual for definitive spec).
Engine Oil Capacity:
7.0 quarts (6.6 Liters) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (MS-9602 or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) OAT, color: Pink or Mopar OAT specification.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Refer to manual for exact requirement).
Common Issues 2012 Wk2 Srt8:
Potential for carbon buildup in the intake manifold, occasional electronic glitches (e.g., infotainment system), front suspension wear (bushings, ball joints) due to performance driving, and early wear on performance tires. The MDS system can sometimes lead to minor ticking noises.
Brand Heritage:
Jeep, a division of Chrysler Group LLC, has a long-standing heritage in off-road capability and rugged utility, dating back to its origins in World War II. The Grand Cherokee represents its venture into the premium SUV market.
Model Evolution:
The Grand Cherokee, introduced in 1993, entered its fourth generation (WK2) for the 2011 model year. The SRT8 variant, introduced in 2005, was revived for the WK2 platform for 2012, offering a significant performance upgrade over standard models.
Production Location:
Jefferson North Assembly Plant, Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Production Years For Wk2 Srt8:
2012-2013
