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An interesting bit of towcar news crossed the Atlantic today, outlining Jeep‘s latest engine and model revisions.

The Paris Motor Show will be the stage for a brand new 2.8-litre turbo diesel unit to be offered in the new 2011 Grand Cherokee, itself launched at the show, and current Wrangler and Cherokee models.

Importantly, the new 2.8 oil burner has power and torque increases, up to 200PS and 339 lb-ft, plenty of pulling power to take you and the family on tour.

Jeep also claim that the new engine, as well as having a quicker 0-60mph time, will be 13% more fuel efficient, with CO2 emissions slashed by 15% too.

When we tested the current Jeep Cherokee 2.8-litre diesel in our 2009 Towcar Awards, the car was let down by its engine, ‘unable to haul close to four tonnes of car and caravan with any urgency’.

Despite this, a couple on our recent reader rally to France admitted their Cherokee is the best car they have ever towed with, owning many others, and couldn’t be happier with it.

In truth, I have always had a soft spot for the current Grand Cherokee, but felt that it, the Wrangler and Cherokee were all let down by rudimentary diesel engines.

With a new 2.2-litre diesel with similar improvements to be revealed for the Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot models at the same motor show, these are notable changes for the caravan community.

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