Things are interesting for the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. New for this year is a larger, slightly stretched three-row model dubbed the Jeep Grand Cherokee L that will be released in the spring.
If you're worried about things getting too big, this isn't a huge behemoth like the Chevy Suburban. That role is reserved for the upcoming 2022 Jeep Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer. The Grand Cherokee L still fits in the mid-size SUV class, and it will be going up against competitors like the Toyota Highlander and (class-leader) Kia Telluride. The third-row here only features 2 seats, not a full bench.
There is one confusing aspect about the 2021 Grand Cherokees this year. The larger L sports the brand-new redesigned fifth-generation (WL) styling. This is what all future Grand Cherokees will look like going forward. However, the regular "non-large" 2021 Grand Cherokee still has the older fourth-generation (WK2) design. It won't see the new refresh until the 2022 model year. So even though the 2021 models share the same name, they won't share the same visual design language.
Let's get into the four trim levels of the all-new 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L.
Laredo
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo has a starting MSRP of $36,995. Standard features include the Quadra-Trac I active 4x4 system with Jeep Selec-Terrain traction management system. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functions will also be a featured offering. Inside, the center console has been redesigned with a more modern look. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system has an 8.4-inch touchscreen and comes with wireless Apple CarPlay support and Android Auto integration. There is also an available in-cabin camera so you can keep tabs on what's going on in the back seats without having to turn around. The Uconnect screen offers a split-screen view of multiple seat locations.
A state-of-the-art McIntosh audio system is also available that has 19 speakers, a 17-channel amplifier, and a 10-inch subwoofer. The whole thing delivers up to 950 watts of power.
Limited
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited starts at $43,995. It maintains the same Quadra-Trac I 4x4 system with the terrain selections and corresponding safety features of the Laredo trim. The main difference here is a more luxurious cabin atmosphere thanks to the addition of Capri leather-trimmed seats. Not only that, but the front- and second-row seats are heated to keep you toasty on cold weather days. The steering wheel is even heated in case you forget your gloves (or for that added bit of warmth even when you do have them).
Depending on the seating configuration you choose, the Grand Cherokee L can seat up to 7 people. The more common option is to have six seats that take advantage of the additional space (three rows of two seats, the two in the second row deemed "captain's chairs"). However, a middle bench seat is also available that has seating for 3 people across. The third row is only a two-seat setup.
Overland
There's a pretty big jump from the Limited to the Overland trim, and the price corresponds to that. The Grand Cherokee L Overland starts at $52,995. Much of the price increase can be attributed to the upgraded Quadra-Trac II Active 4x4 system. It has the Jeep Selec-Terrain traction management system but also adds Quadra-Lift air suspension to the whole setup. The leather seats are also upgraded to perforated Nappa leather-trimmed with both heating and ventilation for the front seats. The second-row seating remains heated but doesn't have ventilation. Looking above you, you'll also notice a standard dual-pane panoramic sunroof so you can enjoy the open air when you're taking your Grand Cherokee L off the beaten path.
Summit
Finally, at the literal summit of the price points, is the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit. Its starting MSRP of $56,995 will net buyers the Quadra-Drive II active 4x4 system. This has the Selec-Terrain traction management system, Quadra-Lift air suspension, and parallel and perpendicular park assist. Also, for even added safety, the system has an intersection collision assist feature. For full-on luxury, the driver's seat is 16-way power-adjustable and even has memory and massage functions.
Additionally, the Uconnect 5 with navigation touchscreen is available at 10.1 inches across. It comes with a 6-moth free trial of SiriusXM, personalized user profiles, and an available Wi-Fi hotspot function. To help keep drivers' eyes on the road, there's also a full-color, 10-inch head-up display that shows turn-by-turn navigation, speed information, and other data points on the windshield in front of the driver.
(image via Facebook)
