Jeep Overland over here

JEEP will add an "Overland" model to its Grand Cherokee range of medium-large four-wheel drives in March, sending it to the top of the range by virtue of its "high output" engine and upscale equipment.

Priced from $75,490 - $8665 above the Grand Cherokee Limited - the Overland gains a revised version of the 5.7-litre Power Tech V8 that produces 190kW (up 16 per cent) and 425Nm (up 8 per cent).

The engine is claimed to propel the vehicle from 0-100km/h in 8.3 seconds, 0.7 seconds sooner than the standard Grand Cherokee V8 over the same distance. Top speed also increases 7km/h to 207km/h.

Distinguishing marks on the exterior include unique 17-inch wheel alloy wheels, sill-protecting rock rails, a brighter tailpipe and body-coloured bits and bobs.

Inside, the equipment level on the plush Limited model is raised further with inclusions the calibre of "Royale" premium leather and "Preferred Suede" seat trim.

There's also 10-way powered and heated front pews, authentic red wood panelling, rain-sensitive windscreen wipers and curtain airbags which extend along the front and rear side windows.