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"Jeep is bringing back the tire-smoking Grand Cherokee SRT8, complete with a more powerful Hemi V-8 engine and vastly improved interior. Basically, the SRT8 returns with all the things we loved about the previous model: the Hemi engine&amp;#039;s stump-pulling grunt, four-wheel-drive, and brutish good looks. And based on our first impressions of the revamped 2011 Grand Cherokee, the SRT8 looks set to receive a level of refinement (especially when it comes to the quality of the cabin trim) that had been sorely lacking.   Judging from the spy images that just crossed our desks, the 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 will sport a chunkier front and rear fascia to differentiate itself from less powerful models. A larger grille, redesigned fog lights, and bigger front air intakes are certain to give the SRT8 some visual bite, even though the exact front detailing remains hidden under cammo on this prototype. The exhaust moves from the current central exit to a more traditional arrangement, with twin pipes located on either side of the rear bumper \u2013 perhaps in a move to better accommodate the tow hook visible on this test mule? Flared wheel arches and a set of monster-sized alloy wheels round out the exterior enhancements.           Quicker and Classier   Under the hood, the current 420-bhp 6.1-liter V-8 gets the heave-ho. In its place, Jeep has installed a 6.4-liter Hemi which, according to our sources, should be good for approximately 480 bhp. Permanent four-wheel drive helps get this extra power to the pavement. Even better news is that SRT8&amp;#039;s extra oomph will be fed through a new 8-speed automatic transmission which should eventually make its way to the entire Grand Cherokee lineup. This gearbox will serve up smoother shifts and quicker acceleration, along with a welcome boost to fuel economy. The stiffer chassis of the new Grand Cherokee should also translate to a better ride and sportier handling in the SRT8 version.   We&amp;#039;ve already praised the improved layout and quality of materials found in the 2011 Grand Cherokee&amp;#039;s cabin. With a price that is likely to hover around $50,000, the SRT8 can&amp;#039;t afford to skimp when it comes to leather, soft-touch plastics and high-quality wood finishes. The SRT8 is also certain to include sportier front seats, a meatier steering wheel and special stitching throughout the interior. Look for the 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 to debut next month, during the annual New York Auto Show.          "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/future-cars/news/a16969/caught-before-new-york-debut-2012-jeep-grand-cherokee-srt8/>