When it comes to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, there's no denying its reputation as a stalwart of the mid-size SUV market. But let's be real, folks – the GC has been around for a while, and with each passing model year, it's been getting a bit long in the tooth. That's why Jeep's latest addition to the lineup is so exciting: the Hurricane 4 Turbo. This new, optional turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four produces a hearty 324 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, making it a compelling alternative to the base Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6. The Hurricane 4 Turbo is not just a minor tweak, either – it's a full-fledged replacement for the old engine. With its variable-geometry turbo, this little four-pot starts building pressure lower in the rev band, allowing for extra dollops of torque as you move through the midrange. And when you do boot the throttle, the transmission will eventually ...
When it comes to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, there’s no denying its reputation as a stalwart of the mid-size SUV market. But let’s be real, folks – the GC has been around for a while, and with each passing model year, it’s been getting a bit long in the tooth. That’s why Jeep’s latest addition to the lineup is so exciting: the Hurricane 4 Turbo. This new, optional turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four produces a hearty 324 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, making it a compelling alternative to the base Pentastar 3.6-liter V-6.
The Hurricane 4 Turbo is not just a minor tweak, either – it’s a full-fledged replacement for the old engine. With its variable-geometry turbo, this little four-pot starts building pressure lower in the rev band, allowing for extra dollops of torque as you move through the midrange. And when you do boot the throttle, the transmission will eventually kick down, unleashing a sound that’s equal parts inline-six rasp and rorty growl.
We spent some quality time with the new engine in the Summit trim, which comes with a standard air-spring suspension. And while it’s not soaking up every undulation like, say, a Mercedes-Benz GLS, the Grand Cherokee provides plenty of cushioning, though it can feel a bit wallowy in some tighter corners. The steering does impart a good bit of info about the road surface, but it’s not like you’re going to find excellent weight or proper off-center buildup.
So, is the Hurricane 4 Turbo worth the extra scratch? Absolutely. With a starting price of $45,810, the Laredo Altitude 4×4 is the most affordable way to get your hands on this new engine. And while it’s not a replacement for the V-6 just yet, it’s a solid addition to the lineup that’s sure to turn some heads.
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