THE most powerful, high-performance Jeep ever produced will make its European debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.

It's the new Grand Cherokee SRT8 boasting ‘Street and Racing Technology' performance and powered by a 6.4-litre HEMI V8 engine producing a massive 470bhp and 630Nm of torque.

The SRT formula dramatically raises performance, so the big bruiser can blast from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds and on to a potential top speed of more than 155mph.

When it goes on sale early next year the SRT8 will feature advanced active damping suspension - managed by the new Selec-Track system to optimise handling - as well as a fuel-saving system that ensures a 13 per cent improvement in motorway fuel consumption and a 450-mile range.

As for styling, the Grand's lowered profile, race-inspired interior and exclusive SRT steering wheel with mounted paddle shifters give a performance feel to the Jeep flagship model.

It also has LED daytime running lights, dual black heat extractors, a new tailgate spoiler, air diffuser, a dual-sport exhaust system with 10cm exhaust pipes and Nappa leather seats.

Jeep says that all its new Grand Cherokee models have improved ride quality thanks in part to a considerably stiffer body, and drivers can now manually choose between five dynamic modes for specific driving conditions.

The SRT8 will be available in one trim grade and on top of the unique SRT8 items, standard equipment will offer the likes of Quadra-Trac active on-demand four-wheel drive transfer system, a dual-pane sunroof, Uconnect sat-nav, adaptive cruise control, 20-inch wheels, blind-spot monitoring and vented Brembo brakes.