Jeep had planned to bring back the ultra-capable Trailhawk package in 2026 but decided instead to wait for the 2027 model year. The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk returns with Hurricane 4 Turbo power and more off-road ability, including best-in-class ground clearance. The Grand Cherokee was recently refreshed and new for 2027, off-roaders will be able to take the SUV off-roading with confidence. The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is the most capable trim in the lineup. Jeep says “The Trailhawk name signifies one thing: legitimate capability wrapped in a comfortable, accessible SUV package.” Yesterday, I reported that Jeep is also confirming that a Cherokee Trailhawk will be available as a 2027 model.
“The Grand Cherokee is a cornerstone of the Jeep brand – one of the most recognized and trusted SUVs worldwide,” said Bob Broderdorf, Jeep brand CEO. “The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk uniquely embodies the go anywhere, do-anything ethos of this brand. It’s an SUV that handles your daily routine and is engineered to be a leader in capability to confidently hold its own off-road with the legendary Trail Rated badge, staying true to the brand’s authentic 4x4 DNA.”
The 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk
I was there when the Jeep Trailhawk trim level debuted as a concept at the 2007 North American International Auto Show. Jeep engineers proposed that the company could build a super Jeep of sorts that could handle any type of terrain. It didn’t come to fruition until late 2013 when it debuted as a 2014 Jeep Cherokee model. Later, the Trailhawk rating was also added as an upgrade for the Grand Cherokee and the Jeep Compass. The Trailhawk trim comes complete with a trail-rated badge and signifies Jeep's premier off-road trim. You can immediatedly recognize a Trailhawk by its red tow hooks. However, the real upgrades are underneath with lifted suspensions, all-terrain tires, reinforced skid plates, and advanced 4x4 systems.
Jeep says the 2027 Grand Cherokee Trailhawk will push capability even further, combining advanced 4x4 systems, innovative suspension technology and purpose-built design to confidently tackle extreme terrain while maintaining everyday comfort and utility. The 2027 Grand Cherokee Trailhawk builds off the all-new 2.0-liter turbocharged Hurricane 4 Turbo engine that produces 324 horsepower and 332 lb.-ft. of torque.
Key Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Features:
- Quadra-Trac II 4x4 system with two-speed transfer case
- Selec-Terrain traction control system with Rock mode
- Quadra-Lift air suspension system with electronic semi-active damping
- Rear electronic limited-slip differential
- 30.5-inch Goodyear Territory All-Terrain tires
- Integrated TrailCam off-road camera and rear camera washer
- Six high-strength steel skid plates to protect the engine, transmission, transfer case, suspension and fuel tank
The 2027 Grand Cherokee Trailhawk will have best-in-class ground clearance of 11.4 inches and best-in-class approach, breakover and departure angles of 36, 24.4, and 30.3 degrees, respectively.
Designed for Extreme Conditions
Obviously, no vehicle is indestructible, but as a Trail Rated vehicle, Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is engineered and tested to perform in a series of demanding off-road conditions. The Trailhawks’ huge all-terrain tires, ground clearance and approach and departure angles will give the vehicle great traction, water fording and maneuverability around trail obstacles. The badge represents a proven standard of capability validated through real-world testing in environments such as the Rubicon Trail, one of the most rigorous off-road trails in the world.
The Grand Cherokee Trailhawks’ Off-Road Pages will give drivers immediate access to the vehicle’s dynamics, gauges, pitch and roll, Selec-Terrain management and suspension settings. Plus, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk maintains a best-in-class maximum towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. The standard Trailer Tow Package ensures customers can easily tow trailers with them to their off-road adventure.
Updated Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Appearance
The 2027 Grand Cherokee Trailhawk features distinctive styling that reflects its capability. The front fascia is optimized to improve approach angles, while signature red tow hooks provide a bold visual accent. A matte black, glare-resistant hood decal, with red “Trailhawk” detailing, screams performance.
The side profile is defined by all-terrain tires and 18-inch wheels, while the rear features a Trailhawk badge and an additional red tow hook. Dark metallic accents complete the rugged exterior appearance. Inside, red stitching accents the Nappa leather seating. Trailhawk also incorporates the refreshed Grand Cherokee’s latest technology, including a 12.3-inch infotainment display.
The 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is expected to arrive at dealers later this year. Pricing and additional details will be provided closer to launch. As I have reported, Jeep is also giving the 2027 Cherokee a Trailhawk trim package. Jeep isn't saying how many of the Grand Cherokee's Trailhawk details will carry over to the smaller SUV. I'm sure the Cherokee Trailhawk will carry similar design cues, right down to the hood and red tow hooks.
Image by Jeep
About the Author
Mary Conway is a professional automotive journalist and has decades of experience specializing in automotive news analysis. She covered the Detroit Three for more than twenty years for the ABC affiliate, in Detroit. Her affection for the Motor City comes naturally. Her father ran a gas station while Mary was growing up, in Wisconsin. Follow Mary at @MaryConwayMedia on X and on Facebook, and send her car news tips for future stories. Mary Conway is an esteemed automotive and business reporter who was inducted into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame in 2019. Mary is a member of the Automotive Press Association, Rocky Mountain Automotive Press, Society of Professional Journalists, and NATAS.
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