Nearly 30 years ago, the Jeep® Grand Cherokee began its legacy as the most awarded SUV in history.
Today, following four ground-breaking generations of the vehicle, countless industry accolades and nearly 7 million global sales, Jeep continues to shatter expectations of the full-size SUV segment with the all-new 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L.
The newest iteration is designed and engineered to deliver an unmatched combination of even more legendary 4×4 capability, superior on-road refinement, premium styling and craftsmanship inside and out, as well as a host of advanced safety and technology features. The result is the all-new 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, for the first time ever with seating for six or seven.
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is designed inside and out to deliver unmatched capability and composed driving dynamics. Its renowned 4×4 systems (Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II), Quadra-Lift air suspension and Selec-Terrain traction management system instil Grand Cherokee L with the Jeep brand’s legendary 4×4 capability. An all-new architecture and sculpted aerodynamic body style combine to improve vehicle performance, safety and reliability, while significantly reducing vehicle weight, noise, vibration and harshness. Designed to maximise overall passenger safety, comfort and convenience, Grand Cherokee L packs a powerful punch with next-generation features and technologies that make it a standout in the full-size SUV segment.
The all-new 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers buyers a choice of two powerful, fuel-efficient and refined engines with proven performance for any driving situation.
Standard is the all-aluminium 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine, with 290hp and 348Nm of torque. Lauded for its power and refinement, the 60-degree angle between the Pentastar V6’s cylinder banks make it inherently smooth running, augmented by accessories that bolt directly to the engine block. The Pentastar V6 engine is compact, with features such as exhaust manifolds integrated into the cylinder heads.
Chain-driven dual overhead camshafts include two-step variable valve lift and variable-valve timing (VVT). This combination quickly tailors engine output to the demands of the driver for the best balance of performance and fuel economy.
Fuel-saving engine start-stop (ESS) technology is standard on the Pentastar V6. The ESS system has been upgraded and refined for the Grand Cherokee L. Changes include a pressure reserve element in the eight-speed transmission, which provides dedicated transmission fluid to the shift elements at engine restart for a quick launch. Refined powertrain controls and new starter technology minimise early engine restarts from minor movements of the driver’s foot on the brake pedal. Restart noise, vibration and harshness have been reduced via revised controls and switchable engine mounts.
The 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine is rated for a towing capacity of up to 2,812kg and an estimated class-leading driving range of nearly 500 miles.
VVT with dual-independent cam phasing enables better fuel efficiency across a wide torque band in the Pentastar V6. Nearly 90 percent of the engine’s peak torque is available from 1,800 to 6,400 rpm – an important consideration when towing.
Buyers who want more power can opt for the award-winning 5.7-litre V8, with 357hp and 528Nm torque delivered over a broad power band and has a class-leading towing capacity of up to 3,265kg
The V8, with a foundation of a cast-iron block and aluminium cylinder heads, delivers performance and efficiency with VVT and Fuel Saver Technology (cylinder deactivation). With Fuel Saver Technology, the engine control computer turns off fuel and spark and closes the valves to four of the engine’s cylinders during light-load operation, such as highway cruising, when full power is not needed. The system immediately re-engages the deactivated cylinders when the driver presses on the accelerator pedal. The system is active in an expanded region with respect to the previous generations and is unnoticeable to the driver. Depending on the driving scenario, cylinder shutoff can increase fuel economy from five to 20 percent.
Fuel economy is further enhanced with VVT technology that reduces the engine’s pumping work by closing the intake valve later and by increasing the expansion process of the combustion event. This allows more energy to be transferred to the wheels instead of being lost out of the exhaust as heat. VVT also improves engine breathing, which improves engine efficiency and power.
Each engine mates to the durable, robust TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, which enhances fuel economy and delivers crisp and smooth gear changes. The widespread of gear ratios helps keep the engine rpm in the ideal range for the task. On-the-fly shift-map changing enables the transmission to quickly adjust its shift strategy to match the driver’s demands based on inputs, such as engine torque changes, hill detection, temperature and longitudinal and lateral acceleration.
New for the 2021 Grand Cherokee L 4×4 is front axle disconnect. If the vehicle senses that road conditions do not require all-wheel drive, the front axle disconnect automatically and places the Grand Cherokee L in two-wheel drive, reducing drag on the driveline and improving fuel economy. Four-wheel drive automatically re-engages when the vehicle senses it is needed.
The proportion of the all-new Grand Cherokee L was inspired by the original Wagoneer, Jeep’s first full-size luxury SUV. Grand Cherokee L’s lean profile features a longer bonnet and cab, which shifts the vehicle rearward to give a sense of motion with a ready to react response. A forward-tipped grille further enhances the length of the bonnet and gives a respectful nod to Wagoneer’s iconic design. A lowered, tapered roof improves aerodynamic performance and efficiency without sacrificing its cargo spaciousness and utility.
Most notably transformed is the face of the Grand Cherokee L. All-new slim LED headlights are the primary focal point and accentuate the technical character of the vehicle. The signature seven-slot grille has been updated to be wider with larger individual openings and is outlined in elegant trim that underscores its advanced lighting and emphasises the width of the vehicle. Below the grille, the new front fascia is proportionally larger than previous generations, designed for function while keeping the competitive approach angle for which the Grand Cherokee is known. Its geometric shape conveys purpose while adding a slight formality to the overall front theme. The larger opening with textural elements conceals a long-range radar and other advanced technology features, including active grille shutters, to help improve on-road performance and efficiency.
From the side, a lowered beltline and expansive glass allow for a more spacious cabin and increased visibility. The roofline appears to float courtesy of a new window moulding design that begins at the base of the side mirror and travels continuously to the rear quarter window and to the base of the back light. This trim treatment stands out even more when selecting the Gloss Black roof, which is available for the first time on Overland models and comes as standard on Summit models. A new roof rack design consists of a singular side rail cap to create a seamless appearance. Body cladding and bright work have been kept to a minimum to align with the vehicle’s modern tailored aesthetic.
A widened track (36mm increase) gives the Grand Cherokee L’s stance a quiet confidence. The wheel flares are pulled tautly around the tyres to strengthen the Grand Cherokee L’s stature. The tyres are flush with the body side to showcase signature trapezoidal wheel arches and, for the first time on a Grand Cherokee, 21-inch wheels come standard with the Summit Reserve Package.
Continuing with its modern theme, the rear of the vehicle is tailored, and the lowered beltline contributes to the expansive rear window. Sleek, high-set LEDrear lights are designed to visually distribute the rear proportions and reinforce the technical aspect of the vehicle. A unique character line directly below the rear lights provides a visual break and carries around to the side of the vehicle to unite the rear and body side in a harmonious way. A new rear fascia and LED fog lamps are underscored by accent trim that corresponds with the front and provides visual width to the rear.
New vertical-pillar spoilers added to the tailgate help reduce on-road drag. A rear-view camera with washer has been tucked neatly into the tailgate spoiler, which also features a new LED centre high-mounted stop lamp. Other rear elements, including a standard integrated tow hitch cover and fascia-mounted exhaust tips, provide a finished, custom look. Overland and Summit models come as standard with a hands-free, foot-activated power tailgate.
For the first time, a premium, full suite of LED lighting is standard on all Jeep Grand Cherokee trim levels, which allowed for design flexibility and helped to shape the identity of the vehicle.
Ultra slim headlamps with unique signature lighting set into Gloss Black bezels, along with slim horizontal fog lamps, express the serious nature of the front end and allow the Grand Cherokee L to be instantly recognisable both during the day and at night.
In the rear, ultra slim rear lights with unique lit signatures complete the lighting story. Additional elements include approach-lit door handles and puddle lighting projected from the rear-view mirror, which are standard on the Overland and Summit models.
When it came to the interior design of 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, the team’s objective was to create one of the most exquisite and technically advanced interiors in the industry. The next-generation interior evolves to create a more refined expression, featuring handcrafted materials with an attention to detail and modern amenities that pair seamlessly with its new lean and tailored exterior.
Immediately upon entry, the driver and front passenger will notice how the Grand Cherokee L’s new layout adds dimension and symmetry. The instrument panel has been proportioned and angled to create spaciousness that is celebrated through an expressive contrast of warm authentic materials and sleek modern technologies.
Harmonious surface language is conveyed by a sculpted, horizontal applique that runs the entire length of the front panel. Focus is drawn to a structural metal trim that stretches the length of the panel and sweeps upward to offset new slim HVAC vents. The sleek trim frames the sculpted natural wood accent, which is offered in open-pore Absolute Oak on Summit and open-pore Waxed Walnut on the Summit Reserve Package. The layering of the wood, leather and metal materials emphasises the horizontal theme and surrounds passengers with a visual masterpiece.
The rich mix of materials are contrasted by the sophisticated execution of the centre stack, which has been realigned and is now even more accessible to the driver. A bright, structural element neatly frames the next-generation, 10.1-inch display for the new Uconnect 5 system. Also new is a 10.25-inch frameless digital gauge cluster with nearly two dozen different menus from which the user can select, including driver-assist technologies such as adaptive cruise control, highway assist, night vision, drowsy driver detection and speed limit traffic signs display (if equipped). To control the digital cluster, the Grand Cherokee L features an all-new multifunction steering wheel with paddle shifters. Summit models come as standard with a leather-wrapped Absolute Oak steering wheel, and the Summit Reserve Package adds Waxed Walnut wood accents.
The console has been reimagined and now boasts an all-new layout featuring a glossy Piano Black finish. The centre console is highlighted by an all-new drive control centre with a backlit, metal rotary shifter that delivers haptic feedback when engaged. To emphasise its authentic Jeep character, the gear lever is flanked by the ride height and Selec-Terrain switches. New streamlined cup holders allow for more space and storage in the front bin, which can hold two wireless devices and features an optional wireless charger that can charge two devices simultaneously.
An all-new Jeep seating architecture has been introduced on the Grand Cherokee L, featuring a length-adjustable cushion for the front row in Overland and Summit models, which is an FCA first. First-row seats with power 16-way adjustable position with memory and lumbar are available on Overland and standard on Summit. Seat back massage, that includes five customisable profiles with three levels of pressure intensity, is available on Overland and standard on Summit models. Heated seats in the first two rows, with three-level configurable controls for personalised passenger comfort, are standard on Limited models and above. Ventilated front-row seats are available on Limited and standard on Overland and Summit models. Ventilated seats in the second row come standard on the Summit Reserve Package.
In the rear cabin of Summit models, standard captain’s chairs flank a new second-row console that provides generous storage and cup holders. The console was designed similarly to the front console, while sculpted for functionality and uncompromised leg and foot room for third-row occupants. For all models, the rear cabin features soft armrests colour-keyed to the leather seats, additional storage and cup holders, plus a class-leading 12 USB Type A and Type C ports for wireless devices.
A full suite of all-new customisable interior LED lighting with daytime/night-time settings is now standard on all models. True ambient lighting with a five-colour selection, an FCA first, casts an inviting glow along the entire instrument panel, as well as the front and rear doors. This feature is standard on the Overland and Summit models for a personalised sensory experience.
Passenger comfort is elevated in Summit models with four-zone automatic temperature control, which has the capability to select different fan levels and modes for individual passengers in the first and second rows. The system also offers four different temperature settings. For the first time in an FCA vehicle, the second and third-row vents, now wider and slimmer, are placed in the pillars, as opposed to overhead, to better target passenger comfort zones without compromising headroom or visibility.
Grand Cherokee L introduces a new premium package, Summit Reserve, that sets the benchmark for luxury in the full-size SUV segment. Premium hand-wrapped, quilted Palermo leather, ventilated front and second-row seats, memory and massage front seats and choice of a new Tupelo interior color add distinguishable details to the model. Also unique to the Summit Reserve Package is genuine open-pore Waxed Walnut wood and premium, wrapped, suede-like fabric on the A-pillars and headliner.
