2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 First Impressions Ultimate hoonage machine

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The online Urban Dictionary explains “hoonage” as: “Aggressively flogging a car, but in a manner that stops just short of reckless.” Not all of us are gifted enough to fully exploit a car and earn points while putting a car slideways at an intersection. Fear not, Jeep has you covered.

The GC SRT8 is Jeep's Swiss Army knife: it handles, it growls and it'll go off road . (Photo: Chrysler)

Yes, my friends, the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 has been tailor-made for those of us not quite capable of drifting, heel-toeing, and doing burn-outs. The GC SRT8 is Jeep's Swiss Army knife: it handles, it growls, it'll go off road and it has the same effect on neighbouring cars as does a low-flying plane.

The GC SRT8 does not present like a typical Grand Cherokee. However, looks are not especially important as hoonage can be achieved using a regular, run-of-the-mill Civic. I will get back to styling a little later so if looks are important to you, you'll be somewhat served.

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is a 6.4L HEMI V8. Up from 6.1L from the previous truck, the new engine now pushes out 470 hp (up from 420) and 465 lb-ft (up from 420). Given these specs, you can clearly see why this SUV so effortlessly flies. And here's how you win: The GC SRT8 features a variable torque-split, full-time AWD system and a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Translation: Crush the go-pedal as hard as you can and hold the steering wheel straight. Without strain – other than trying to keep your head from slamming against the seat's headrest – the GC SRT8 will launch to 100 km/h in 5 seconds every time and anytime. You can line up with any car this side of a Porsche 911 Turbo or Nissan GT-R and you'll win – every time. Nice, eh? This thing is really fast, and the gearbox easily keeps up with the driver's demands.

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is a 6.4L HEMI V8. (Photo: Chrysler)