2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Blackhawk: A Detailed Review

Hey everyone, and welcome back to the blog! Today, we're diving deep into a ride that really turned heads back in 2017: the Jeep Grand Cherokee Blackhawk. If you're looking for a sport utility vehicle that blends rugged capability with a touch of aggressive styling, you've come to the right place. This special edition wasn't just about slapping on some badges; Jeep really put some thought into making this Grand Cherokee stand out from the crowd. We're going to break down what made the Blackhawk edition so appealing, from its unique aesthetic touches to its performance on and off the beaten path. So, grab a coffee, settle in, and let's get this review started! We'll cover everything you need to know to decide if this particular Grand Cherokee is the right fit for your garage, whether you're a seasoned off-roader or just someone who appreciates a vehicle with a bit of attitude.

Unpacking the Blackhawk's Aggressive Stance

Let's talk about what gives the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Blackhawk its distinctive character. The first thing you notice is, of course, the styling. Jeep nailed it with this one, giving it a more menacing and muscular appearance compared to the standard models. The Blackhawk edition typically rolls out with a gloss black grille, gloss black exterior accents, and blacked-out badging. This isn't just a few trim pieces; it's a coordinated effort to create a cohesive, stealthy look. The 20-inch gloss black aluminum wheels are a massive part of this aesthetic, perfectly complementing the dark theme. They give the SUV a planted, assertive stance that screams capability. Beyond the wheels and trim, you'll often find unique Blackhawk badging on the front doors and tailgate, proudly announcing its special status. The overall effect is a Grand Cherokee that looks ready for anything, whether it's navigating city streets or tackling a challenging trail. It’s a subtle yet powerful transformation that appeals to buyers who want their vehicle to make a statement without being overly flashy. The attention to detail in the exterior package is what truly sets the Blackhawk apart, making it a desirable choice for those who appreciate a more sophisticated, albeit dark, aesthetic in their SUV. It's not just about looking tough; it's about exuding confidence and a readiness for adventure, all wrapped up in a package that feels premium and exclusive. This deliberate design choice was a huge win for Jeep, offering a fresh take on an already popular model and capturing the attention of a market segment looking for something a bit more distinct and assertive. The integration of the gloss black elements across the grille, badging, and wheels creates a harmonious and impactful visual, ensuring the Blackhawk edition leaves a lasting impression on anyone who sees it.

Interior Comforts and Creature Comforts

Now, let's slide inside the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Blackhawk and see what it offers in terms of comfort and features. While the exterior commands attention with its dark theme, the interior focuses on providing a premium and comfortable experience for both the driver and passengers. Jeep is known for its comfortable cabins, and the Grand Cherokee is no exception. The Blackhawk edition typically comes well-appointed, often building upon the trims like the Laredo or Limited, meaning you're getting a solid foundation of features. Expect to find premium cloth or leather-trimmed seats, depending on the specific package, offering excellent support for long drives. The heated front seats are a welcome addition for those colder mornings, and depending on the configuration, you might even find ventilated front seats for ultimate comfort in warmer climates. The Uconnect infotainment system is the centerpiece of the dashboard, providing easy access to navigation, audio, and vehicle settings. For 2017, the Uconnect system was quite robust, often featuring a touchscreen display (typically 8.4 inches) that's intuitive and responsive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were starting to become more prevalent, though availability could vary depending on the specific options chosen. The dual-zone automatic climate control ensures everyone in the cabin stays at their preferred temperature, contributing to a more pleasant journey for all. Storage is plentiful, with a decent-sized center console, door pockets, and cup holders. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, making it a comfortable vehicle for families or for carrying adult passengers. Cargo space is also a strong point for the Grand Cherokee, with a generous area behind the rear seats that can be expanded by folding them down. This versatility makes the Blackhawk edition practical for everything from grocery runs to weekend getaways, proving that its aggressive exterior doesn't compromise its daily usability. The overall interior design is driver-focused, with controls easily within reach, and the materials used feel high-quality, reinforcing the premium nature of the Grand Cherokee. It’s a space designed for both comfort and convenience, ensuring that every drive, whether short or long, is an enjoyable one. The thoughtful layout and the inclusion of desirable amenities mean that the Blackhawk’s interior lives up to the sophisticated promise of its exterior styling, offering a refined and well-equipped environment for all occupants.

Performance and Powertrain Options

When it comes to performance, the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Blackhawk doesn't disappoint. Under the hood, you typically had a choice between a couple of potent engine options that provided a good balance of power and capability. The standard engine for most Blackhawk models was the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. This engine is known for its smooth operation and provides more than enough power for daily driving and moderate off-roading. It typically produces around 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, which is plenty to get this SUV moving with confidence, whether you're merging onto a highway or climbing an incline. For those who craved more muscle and towing prowess, an optional 5.7-liter HEMI V8 was often available. This beast pumps out a hearty 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, offering a significant boost in acceleration and towing capacity. This V8 option really transforms the Grand Cherokee into a more serious performer, capable of tackling tougher jobs and providing an exhilarating driving experience. Both engines were generally paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which offered smooth shifts and helped optimize fuel efficiency. The Blackhawk edition usually came standard with Jeep's capable 4x4 system, ensuring excellent traction in various conditions, from slippery roads to challenging off-road trails. This system is designed to handle whatever you throw at it, providing confidence and security no matter the terrain. The Selec-Terrain traction management system is also a key feature, allowing the driver to select different terrain modes (like Snow, Sand, Mud, and Rock) to optimize performance for the conditions. This sophisticated system electronically coordinates 4WD, braking, and drivetrain components to provide the best possible traction and control. For an SUV that looks as capable as the Blackhawk, it's crucial that it can back up that image with actual performance, and Jeep certainly delivered. Whether you're using it as a daily driver or an off-road adventurer, the powertrain options ensure you have the power and capability you need. The combination of strong engines, a smooth transmission, and Jeep's legendary 4x4 system makes the Grand Cherokee Blackhawk a compelling option for those who demand versatility and performance from their SUV. It’s this blend of everyday comfort and genuine off-road prowess that has cemented the Grand Cherokee’s reputation, and the Blackhawk edition amplified that appeal with its distinctive style.

Off-Road Prowess: Is it Just for Show?

So, the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Blackhawk looks the part, but can it actually handle some serious off-roading? The short answer is a resounding yes! While the Blackhawk edition might lean into a more aggressive, street-oriented aesthetic with its blacked-out accents and larger wheels, it's still fundamentally a Jeep Grand Cherokee. This means it inherits the brand's renowned off-road DNA. Equipped with Jeep's Quadra-Trac II 4x4 system (often standard or widely available on Blackhawk models), this SUV is no slouch when the pavement ends. This system features a two-speed transfer case with a low-range gear, which is essential for serious off-roading, allowing for precise control at slow speeds and enhanced torque multiplication for climbing obstacles. Paired with the Selec-Terrain system, drivers can dial in the optimal settings for various conditions – snow, sand, mud, or rock – and the vehicle’s electronics will adjust throttle response, transmission shift points, and the transfer case accordingly. Furthermore, depending on the specific configuration, the Grand Cherokee could also be equipped with an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) on the rear axle. This is a game-changer for off-road traction, as it can actively distribute torque between the rear wheels, sending power to the wheel with the most grip. Coupled with the Quadra-Lift air suspension, which can raise the vehicle's ground clearance significantly, the Grand Cherokee Blackhawk can overcome obstacles that would leave many other SUVs struggling. The air suspension offers multiple ride heights, providing flexibility for different situations – a lower setting for easier entry and exit, a standard height for normal driving, and a higher setting for off-road clearance. While the larger, gloss black wheels might make some owners hesitant to subject them to rock crawling, the underlying capability is absolutely there. For the adventurous owner, the Blackhawk offers a fantastic blend of stylish presence and genuine off-road credentials. It’s a testament to Jeep’s engineering that they can create a vehicle that looks this aggressive yet remains so competent when the going gets tough. It proves that you don't have to sacrifice capability for style; with the Blackhawk, you can have both. The substantial underbody protection, robust suspension components, and intelligent four-wheel-drive systems all contribute to its impressive off-road credentials, making it a highly versatile and capable machine.

Who is the Blackhawk For?

So, who exactly is the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Blackhawk edition best suited for? This particular model strikes a very specific chord with buyers who appreciate a blend of style, capability, and a touch of exclusivity. If you're someone who likes the idea of an SUV that looks tough and aggressive – think bold lines, dark accents, and imposing wheels – but you still need the practicality and comfort of a daily driver, the Blackhawk is a strong contender. It appeals to those who want their vehicle to make a statement, projecting an image of strength and readiness, but perhaps don't plan on tackling extreme off-road trails every weekend. It’s for the individual or family who might occasionally venture off the beaten path – think camping trips, exploring gravel roads, or navigating snowy conditions – but whose primary use will be commuting, running errands, and family road trips. The upgraded styling elements, like the gloss black grille and wheels, give it a more premium and customized feel right off the factory floor, appealing to buyers looking for something a bit more special than the standard trim levels. It's also a great option for those who appreciate the inherent capabilities of the Grand Cherokee – its towing capacity, comfortable ride, and available V8 power – but desire a more distinctive visual package. Essentially, if you're looking for a well-rounded, comfortable, and highly capable SUV with a sophisticated and assertive aesthetic, the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Blackhawk could very well be the perfect fit for your lifestyle. It offers a compelling package that bridges the gap between rugged utility and refined road presence, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers.

Final Verdict: A Stylish and Capable Package

In conclusion, the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Blackhawk was a fantastic offering from Jeep, delivering a compelling mix of aggressive styling and proven capability. It took the already excellent Grand Cherokee platform and added a dose of dark, sophisticated appeal that resonated with many buyers. With its distinct gloss black exterior accents, striking wheels, and well-appointed interior, the Blackhawk edition offers a premium feel that stands out. Performance-wise, it boasts the same robust powertrain options – the smooth V6 or the powerful V8 – and Jeep's legendary 4x4 systems, ensuring it's as capable off-road as it looks. While its aggressive stance might suggest a purely aesthetic upgrade, don't underestimate its off-road prowess; it's still a true Jeep. For those seeking a stylish, comfortable, and genuinely capable SUV that offers a bit more personality than the standard models, the 2017 Grand Cherokee Blackhawk is definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a used vehicle. It’s a well-rounded package that delivers on both looks and substance, making it a memorable and desirable iteration of an already iconic SUV.