Jeep Adds Alpine and Vapor Editions to 2013 Grand Cherokee SRT8
The 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 range expands with two factory special editions, Alpine and Vapor, featuring distinct exterior finishes and exclusive trim details.
Jeep has introduced two new special editions for the 2013 Grand Cherokee SRT8, named Alpine and Vapor. These variants expand the appeal of the high-performance SUV by offering distinctive exterior and interior styling, while retaining the mechanical package that has made the SRT8 one of the most powerful SUVs in its class. The special editions are designed for buyers seeking a more individual look, with unique finishes and trim details that set them apart from the standard model.
Overview of the 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Special Editions
Alpine and Vapor: Exterior and Interior Features
The Alpine edition is finished in Bright White, providing a clean and striking appearance, while the Vapor edition comes in Brilliant Black, offering a more aggressive and stealthy look. Both versions feature Black Vapor Chrome split-spoke 5-spoke wheels, which are complemented by matching exterior trim elements and bespoke badging. These visual updates are the main distinction between the two special editions and the standard SRT8, emphasising style and presence on the road.
Inside, both the Alpine and Vapor receive a leather-wrapped steering wheel and paddle shifters, enhancing the driving experience and lending a more premium feel to the cabin. These additions are intended to further differentiate the special editions from the regular SRT8, although the overall interior layout and equipment remain unchanged. The focus is clearly on design and tactile improvements rather than a comprehensive overhaul.
Performance and Drivetrain
Mechanically, the Alpine and Vapor editions do not introduce any changes to the established SRT8 formula. Both continue to use the 6.4-litre HEMI V8 engine, which produces 470 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels, allowing the Grand Cherokee SRT8 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds. The quarter-mile time is around 13 seconds, and the top speed is rated at 160 mph. These figures place the SRT8 among the quickest SUVs of its generation, and the special editions retain all of these performance credentials.
Position in the Grand Cherokee Range
The Grand Cherokee S RT8 remains the flagship performance model in Jeep’s SUV line-up for 2013. The introduction of the Alpine and Vapor editions is aimed at customers who want their vehicle to stand out visually, but who do not wish to sacrifice the proven performance and capability of the SRT8. This approach is in line with a broader trend among car manufacturers to offer factory special editions that focus on unique finishes and minor trim enhancements, rather than extensive technical revisions.
At the time of launch, Jeep had not announced official pricing for the Alpine and Vapor editions. For reference, the standard 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 was listed from $55,295 in the United States. Pricing for these special editions is expected to be in a similar range, with a likely premium for the unique paintwork and trim.
Market Context and Related Developments
The release of the Alpine and Vapor editions reflects a pattern in the automotive industry, where manufacturers introduce special versions of popular models to maintain interest and give buyers more choice. Such editions often focus on cosmetic and equipment upgrades, allowing customers to personalise their vehicles directly from the factory. This strategy helps brands like Jeep keep their models fresh in a competitive market without the need for costly redesigns or mechanical changes.
For enthusiasts looking ahead, Jeep later expanded its high-performance SUV range with the launch of the Trackhawk in the 2017 model year. The Trackhawk introduced a supercharged V8 engine, offering even greater performance. This move demonstrated Jeep’s ongoing commitment to the performance SUV segment and provided buyers with more options at the top end of the Grand Cherokee line-up.
Summary Table: 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Special Editions
| Feature | Alpine Edition | Vapor Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Colour | Bright White | Brilliant Black |
| Wheels | Black Vapor Chrome 5-spoke | Black Vapor Chrome 5-spoke |
| Interior Upgrades | Leather-wrapped steering wheel, paddle shifters | Leather-wrapped steering wheel, paddle shifters |
| Engine | 6.4-litre HEMI V8 (470 hp, 465 lb-ft) | 6.4-litre HEMI V8 (470 hp, 465 lb-ft) |
| Performance | 0-60 mph in 4.8s, 160 mph top speed, 13s quarter-mile | 0-60 mph in 4.8s, 160 mph top speed, 13s quarter-mile |
| Pricing (2012 SRT8) | From $55,295 (US) | From $55,295 (US) |
