Jeep Cherokee SRT8 Does 8:49 Lap around the Nürburgring with Video

SRT is trying to shape its niche as the Chrysler performance brand. A major step in this new role will be tomorrow's introduction of the next generation Viper, but in another attempt to raise its cache as a performance brand, SRT sent a Grand Cherokee SRT8 around the 12.8 mile Nürburgring Nordschleife. Behind the wheel was perhaps, the 'Ring's most famous driver, former BMW Ring Taxi driver and winner of the 24 Hours of the Nürburgring Sabine Schmitz. 

Schmitz managed a 8:49 lap time around the course. With its 6.4l, V8 with 470hp and 465lb-ft of torque that time is less impressive than you might think. Cars with a similar lap time include a 2007 Opel Astra OPC that did a 8:47.99 and a 2005 Ford Focus ST that did a 8:51. However, it is faster than a 2010 Range Rover Sport Supercharged that did a 8:55 lap. 

The lap was also featured on the Speed Channel show Test Drive, which got an alternate angle on the lap.