After reviews of over 1000 plus vehicles, sometimes in the first 30 seconds of seeing one, you just know it’s going to be a huge hit. Such is the case with the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L you see here.
Grand Cherokee has had a loyal following for years, with people always asking for a 3rd row seat. It is finally here, and Jeep did it right.
Powertrain
My review vehicle is the Summit Reserve, the very top-of-the-line. It is a 4-wheel drive version and it has the 3.6-liter V6 mated to an 8-speed shiftable automatic. Together they put out 290-horses. My personal choice would be the 5.7 Hemi, but this 6-cylinder does fine.
Exterior
On the outside, a new sculpted exterior with a tapered roof optimizes aerodynamics without sacrificing inside space. The front end has been refreshed, but remains reminiscent of its Grand Cherokee heritage.
21” optional wheels look amazing, as do the rear spoiler and integrated rear exhaust. I love that Jeep put just the right amount of chrome from the side view.
Interior
While beautiful on the outside, I was taken aback with the Palermo leather seats that are bolstered with diamond pleated outer edges.
As you sit behind the steering wheel that has controls, a large and extremely configurable digital dash cluster greets you and is pleasing to the eyes.
Above the center console is a 10.1-inch touchscreen that is tilted slightly back to prevent glare. From it, you operate the incredible 19-speaker McIntosh sound system, climate controls, navigation, Bluetooth, vehicle settings, and page after page of apps. As you access the pages, you find wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a WiFi hotspot, and real-time traffic, weather and more.
The center console is full of controls. You can change the drive modes, adjust the ride height, and there is a round gearshift knob. Toward the front is your wireless phone charger, USB ports and a 12-volt power outlet.
Above that is climate controls, including cooled and heated seats, then over the touchscreen you can turn off the start/stop system, turn on the lane keep assist, and activate the parking assist.
This model has second row Captain chairs and a beautiful center console. These passengers have a lot of controls for automatic temperature, heated seats, USB ports, and a power outlet.
The third row is spacious for two adults and it is easy to get in and out of. Cargo area is more than ample for this sized SUV, and switches in the cargo area allow you to fold all seats down for cargo.
Standard Features
Notable standard features include: air conditioned and heated front seats that massage you, power liftgate, panoramic moon roof, heated steering wheel, keyless entry, and remote start.
Safety
On the safety front, you get blind spot warning, adaptive cruise control, lane management, surround view camera, active driving assist, and rear seat reminder.
Ride and Drive
Driving the Grand Cherokee L is a real joy. Handling is awesome, the ride is really good, and interior quietness is fantastic.
Fuel economy is rated at 18 city, 25 highway, and MSRP is $64,280 which is an outstanding value on the current market for a 3-row SUV equipped like this one.
Verdict
Jeep killed it with this 3-Row Grand Cherokee. It was a long time coming, but well worth the wait.
- What I Liked Most: Interior and exterior looks, and overall quality.
- What I would change: For me, put the Hemi under the hood.
- Fuel Economy: 18 city/25 highway/21 combined.
- Odometer reading when tested: 2,400 miles.
- Weight: 4,650 pounds.
- Spare Tire: Full-sized spare.
- Length-Width-Height: 204.9” long/76.7” wide/71.5” high.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 23 gallons with the filler on the passenger side.
- Towing Capacity: 6,300 lbs.
- Official Color: Diamond Black Crystal Pearl Coat.
- 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L: It was a long time coming, but well worth the wait for the Grand Cherokee L.
- Warranty: 3-year/36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper, 5-year/60,000 mile power train warranty.
- Final Assembly Location: Detroit, MI.
- Manufacturer's website: Jeep
- Next Up: 2022 Kia Carnival
