CAUGHT: “Trail Rated” 2022 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trailhawk:

Recently the Jeep® brand unveiled its all-new three-row Grand Cherokee L lineup. Grand Cherokee fans were soon to point out that the popular off-road-oriented Trailhawk trim-level was absent from the Grand Cherokee L’s offerings. It left many questioning if the fifth-generation would ditch its “Trail Rated” Trailhawk model in favor of the luxury-oriented Overland with the Off-Road Group, which is the only “Trail Rated” model on the Grand Cherokee L.

Thanks to spy photographers, we are getting our first look at the new two-row 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk. Yes, it appears that the Trailhawk may be only available on the two-row Grand Cherokee.

We expect the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk to mimic the winning formula of the current model. Trailhawk model will feature a ton of standard off-road features, including the legendary Quadra-Drive II 4×4 system with rear electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD), a unique version of the Quadra-Lift air suspension specifically developed for the Trailhawk which offers improved articulation and total suspension travel, as well Selec-Speed Control with Hill Ascent Control. It’s safe to say, that the Trailhawk will also offer a series of skid plates to help protect the vehicle while climbing over obstacles.

Currently, the 2021 model offers a choice between the award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 delivering 295 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. For those looking for more power, the brawny 5.7-liter HEMI V8 boasts 360 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. Both engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Trailhawk V6 models can tow 6,200 lbs., while Trailhawk V8 models offer a best-in-class towing capacity of 7,200 lbs. All of the powertrain numbers and towing capacity ratings match the new three-row Grand Cherokee L models, which leads us to believe that it should be similar to the new two-row models.

Looking at the new model, we see that it will share front fascia styling similar to the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Overland. The plastic air splitter pieces from the Overland front fascia are gone, giving the Trailhawk even more clearance for approach clearances. While the tow hooks are covered in camouflage, we expect them to be painted in the signature Trailhawk red. There is also the addition of a front-mounted part of the 360-degree surround-view camera and night vision camera located in the Trailhawk’s grille. We wouldn’t be surprised if Jeep allows for the front-mounted camera to be used off-road like the TrailCam on the Wrangler and Gladiator models.

What really stands out on the new Trailhawk is the more aggressive Goodyear Wrangler Territory All-Terrain tires, the same tires found on the new 2021 Ram 1500 TRX. It appears Jeep has dumped the Goodyear All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar tires, so expect the Trailhawk to be able to tackle even harsher terrain. The tires are wrapped around a set of 18-inch split-five spoke aluminum wheels.

While we don’t know the actual specifications of the off-road approaches of attack, we can look at the current Trailhawk model compared to the new Grand Cherokee L Overland with the Off-Road Group, both have the Quadra-Drive II 4×4 system and Quadra-Lift air suspension…

Nevertheless, Grand Cherokee enthusiasts should be happy to hear that their favorite off-road-oriented model will be returning. We expect that the new fifth-generation Grand Cherokee will increase the capability of the current model. We do know that were will be an electrified two-row Grand Cherokee shown off later this year. It is possible that the Trailhawk could offer an electrified variant.

The two-row 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WL74) should make its debut sometime this summer. Production is expected to start this fall at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan. 

To continue the discussion of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee (WL), be sure to join us at WLJeepForum.com.

2022 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trailhawk (WL74) Tester Image Gallery:

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