DaimlerChrysler has launched a new 2.7-litre common rail turbo diesel-powered Jeep Grand Cherokee.

At the same time, a new high-powered, top-of-the range 'Overland' version of the Grand Cherokee has been introduced -- the most powerful and luxurious Grand Cherokee yet -- which uses a new 4.7-litre V8 engine to produce a top speed of over 128mph.

Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland and the 2.7-litre CRD versions, which are built in Graz, Austria, will go on sale in the UK along with the two existing powertrains, the 4.0-litre automatic and 4.7-litre V8 five speed automatic.

The makers say the new Grand Cherokee 2.7 CRD offers performance characteristics that are markedly improved. Compared to the turbo diesel engine it replaces, the 2.7-litre CRD engine is quieter, more powerful, more responsive and more fun-to-drive. For Jeep, it represents a new level of diesel technology.

Manufactured in Untertuerkheim-Stuttgart in Germany, the 2.7-litre engine brings a whole host of new features to customers seeking a diesel-powered Grand Cherokee. These include double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and a variable geometry turbocharger.

The new engine provides Grand Cherokee 2.7 CRD with a top speed of 118mph and significantly faster acceleration. It accelerates from zero to 62 mph in just 11.2 seconds, over two and a half seconds quicker than the previous turbo diesel version.

While the 2.7-litre CRD engine will become available in Limited trim level Grand Cherokee, the new Overland will be fitted with the new, high output version of the Jeep 4.7-litre V8 petrol engine.

Producing 255 horsepower -- 16 per cent more power than the standard 4.7-litre V8 -- this engine provides the Grand Cherokee Overland with a top speed of 128 mph. This compares with the 124 mph top speed of the standard 4.7-litre V8, which will continue to be available on Limited versions.

The 4.7-litre HO engine is mated to the Jeep five-speed automatic transmission. This transmission provides an overdrive gear for increased motorway fuel economy and reduced engine noise at motorway speeds. The engine is built at the Chrysler Group's Mack Avenue Engine Plant in Detroit, Michigan.

The Grand Cherokee Overland is distinguished by machined-rim five spoke 17-inch aluminium alloy wheels, body-colour exterior fascia panels, a unique lower grille finished in Driftwood, rock rails to protect the sills and a bright finished exhaust pipe.

Inside, extra equipment includes a power sunroof, a ten-disc CD changer with remote control, a unique suede and leather seat trim, embroidered "Overland" floor mats, ten-way powered and heated front seats and real red wood trim on the instrument panel, centre stack, upper door trims and upper part of the steering wheel.

The Grand Cherokee Limited and Overland now have a rain-sensitive windscreen wiper system, utilising a rain sensor attached to the windscreen. When the front windscreen wiper control is turned to 'auto', the wiper system automatically activates when it rains. There are five automatic positions on the lever to allow drivers to select the most suitable system sensitivity.