Jeep will unveil the Grand Cherokee SRT8 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Making its first European show appearance the new model boasts a 6.4-litre, 470bhp V8 engine.

Such a large powerplant might seem out of step with the eco-friendly times and high fuel prices but it boasts 'Fuel Saver Technology'. European driving cycle figures have not been released but in the USA 15mpg (converting to UK gallons) and 21mpg are the official figures for city and highway driving.

In return for using all that petrol Jeep claims the SRT8 will accelerate from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds. It is also apparently possible to go from zero to 100mph and back in around 16.5 seconds. Top speed is said to be 'over 155mph'.

Ride and handling are helped by adjustable dampers with five settings. There is also 'Quadra-Trac' four-wheel drive that distributes the power to the 20-inch forged alloy wheels.

Along with the big wheels the performance version of the Grand Cherokee can be identified by its 3cm lower suspension, bonnet with functional cooling vents and dual exhaust system with 10cm tail pipes. The interior features carbon fibre trim, paddle shift controls for the transmission and sports seats in Nappa leather and suede.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 will go on sale in early 2012. Expect prices to be announced closer to that time.

Frankfurt Motor Show

John Lambert - 1 Sep 2011