Do the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Grand Cherokee have you feeling a little confused? Before you run off to test-drive these models, check out our comparison guide. We’re here to help you decide which Grand Cherokee speaks to your needs.
Size and Seating Accommodations
One of the big differences between the Grand Cherokee L and the regular Grand Cherokee is size. The all-new Grand Cherokee L has three rows and enough seats for up to seven passengers. The traditional Grand Cherokee has two rows and five seats.
To accommodate an extra row of seats, the Grand Cherokee L is about 15 inches longer than the traditional model. However, the extra seating does take a toll on cargo space. This new model offers 17.2 cubic feet behind the third-row seats. The old-school Grand Cherokee on the other hand, has 36.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seats.
Trim Levels and Comfort Features
The three-row Jeep Grand Cherokee L is available as four trim models: Laredo, Limited, Overland, and Summit. The base lineup includes tri-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and sliding second-row captain’s chairs. Move up the trim levels for more to love, such as leather upholstery and a power liftgate.
The five-passenger Jeep Grand Cherokee is available as seven trim models: Laredo, Limited Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, SRT, and Trackhawk. Drivers who crave adventure can choose the Trailhawk, a Grand Cherokee that’s built for the off-road with enhanced four-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, and all-terrain drive modes. The SRT and Trackhawk models upgrade your ride with high-performance adaptive suspension and braking systems.
Tech Features
The all-new Grand Cherokee L features the brand new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which comes complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The system itself is Android-based, so using it feels very intuitive indeed. If you choose, you can upgrade this SUV with a 19-speaker McIntosh premium sound system.
Back on the Grand Cherokee, you’ll find the previous Uconnect infotainment system. It also includes Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, (though not the wireless kind) and its optional 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system has excellent bass.
In addition to its cutting-edge infotainment features, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L comes standard with more safety aids. Every model includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision mitigation.
The five-passenger Grand Cherokee comes standard with blind-spot monitoring, but the other features can only be found on higher trim levels.
Power and Performance
Choose between two 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L engines:
- Standard 3.6-liter V6 (290 horsepower, 257 pound-feet of torque)
- Optional 5.7L V8 (357 hp, 390 lb-ft)
Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive is available for every Grand Cherokee L trim model.
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee features two similar engine options, and adds two more for its track-ready models: =
- Standard 3.6L V6 (295 hp, 260 lb-ft)
- Optional 5.7L V8 (360 hp, 390 lb-ft)
- SRT: 6.4L V8 (470 hp, 475 lb-ft)
- Trackhawk: supercharged 6.2L V8 (707 hp, 645 lb-ft)
These engines are also paired with an eight-speed automatic. The standard V6 and optional 5.7-liter V8 offer optional four-wheel drive. The SRT and Trackhawk powertrains come standard with track-specific all-wheel drive.
Choose Your Grand Cherokee
To decide between these Grand Cherokees, you must know what you want in a daily driver. If you need the extra seats and can’t wait to check out Jeep’s new tech features, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is definitely your vibe.
The regular Grand Cherokee also has major appeal, especially if you’re looking for an SUV that can take on either the track or trail.