THE fifth generation of the Jeep Grand Cherokee has broken cover in its American homeland and is due to be unveiled in UK-guise later this year.

In the US, the new Grand Cherokee has been revealed as a seven-seater but in Britain it will be sold in shorter-wheelbase five seat configuration.

Engine choices and pricing for European-specification versions have still to be announced with the American model powered either by a 3.6-litre V6 or 5.7-litre V8 petrol engine.

A 4xe electrified Grand Cherokee is due to go into production later in 2021.

All models have a new front axle arrangement which are designed to reduce noise levels and improve handling.

Jeep says the new Grand Cherokee has more than 110 advanced safety and driver assist systems onboard including semi-autonomous drive modes and a surround-view camera system.

It also has the latest Uconect technology system which includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, an optional rear seat monitoring camera and a high-end 960-Watt, 19-speaker audio system.

A full 4x4, the Grand Cherokee is Jeep's alternative to the likes of the Land Rover Discovery and in the near 30 years it has been on sale has notched up almost seven million sales globally.

Christian Meunier, global president of the Jeep brand, said: "When you set out to reimaginean SUV as beloved as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, building on its nearly 30-year legacy as an overachiever is paramount to every decision that is made.

"With thatlegacyguidingthe Jeep team,the new2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is crafted to exceed expectations and do what no other SUV can do: deliver legendary Jeep 4x4 off-road capability blended with superior on-road manners. It is built on an all-new architecture and wrapped in a stunning new design that honours its iconic Jeep design heritage."