2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Review

Name: 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Brand: Jeep

Price Range: $22,000 - $41,998

Jeep Grand Cherokee L Overland 4dr SUV Exterior

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L supplies generous room for passengers in all three rows, and it outmatches competitors by a significant margin with its available off-road and towing capabilities. But there are problems with its on-road demeanor, and that makes the Grand Cherokee L a less livable three-row SUV than some of its rivals.

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Jeep Grand Cherokee L model years

Jeep Grand Cherokee L for Sale

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Review

Pros

Impressive list of standard and optional advanced driver aids
Handsome interior design with roomy seating
Better off-road capability than most three-row SUVs
Stout towing capacity

Cons

Base V6 engine provides underwhelming acceleration
Confusing button layout
Poor outward visibility

What's new

The Grand Cherokee L is all-new for 2021
Three rows of seating
Interior filled with premium touches and tech features
2021 model kicks off the first Grand Cherokee L generation

Overview

Written by automotive expert Ryan ZumMallen

8/30/2021

Jeep last redesigned its Grand Cherokee for the 2011 model year, and this midsize SUV has started to show its age in the last few years. Specifically, it lacked many of the modern features offered by rivals such as the Honda Passport, Subaru Outback and Toyota Venza — all redesigned in the last few years. But now Jeep has finally dialed up a full redesign, and it starts with the 2021 Grand Cherokee L.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

195 listings

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2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Limited 4dr SUV
$29,200
great price
$3,226 below market
- 17,799 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 6 Seats, 18 City / 25 Hwy MPG
- Driveway (24 mi away)
- Home delivery*
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Springfield, VA
CarFax No Accidents Reported,CarFax 1-Owner,Low Mileage,3rd Row Seat,Apple CarPlay,Back-Up Camera,Blind Spot Monitor,Bluetooth,Brake Assist,Heated Sea...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
21 Combined MPG (18 City/25 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1C4RJKBG3M8123258
Stock: M8123258P
Certified Pre-Owned: No
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Summit 4dr SUV
$24,997
great price
$4,744 below market
- 88,882 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 6 Seats, 18 City / 25 Hwy MPG
- Ourisman Lexus of Rockville (18 mi away)
- Home delivery*
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Rockville, MD
ONE OWNER, NAVIGATION, APPLE CAR PLAY/ANDROID AUTO, HEATED AND VENTILATED SEATS, BLUE TOOTH, BACK UP CAMERA, 10 Speakers, 2nd Row Manual Window Shades...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
21 Combined MPG (18 City/25 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 1C4RJKEG9M8116858
Stock: T8116858
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 09-13-2025

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The L signifies that this model has three rows of seating, which is a new quality for the Grand Cherokee. A two-row Grand Cherokee will also come out, but not until 2022. Though the 3.6-liter V6 and 5.7-liter V8 engines are essentially carried over from the previous generation, just about everything else is new. Key enhancements include higher-quality cabin materials and the latest version of parent company Stellantis' infotainment system called Uconnect 5.

Available in six- and seven-seat configurations, the Grand Cherokee L features a second row that can slide 7 inches to make room for passengers in the back. The third row in some midsize SUVs can be cramped, but Jeep has done a nice job of making the Grand Cherokee L's third-row headroom and legroom roomy enough for 6-footers.

Overall, we like how the Grand Cherokee L brings Jeep's rugged ethos to a class of crossover SUVs usually focused on functional family transportation. But it also has some usability issues that might give you pause. Check out our Expert Rating below to get our test team's take on how the Grand Cherokee L stacks up.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Average

7.5

out of 10

We drove the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

7.5/10

How does the Grand Cherokee L drive? We tested the Grand Cherokee L with its base 3.6-liter V6 engine (Jeep offers its muscular 5.7-liter V8 engine in top trims). The V6 is a likable enough engine on its own, but it often feels overworked in a vehicle this big. At Edmunds' test track, our test vehicle accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 8.6 seconds, which is slow for the class. We also have reservations about the light, loose steering feel and lack of feedback from the brake pedal. Upsides include smooth shifts through all eight gears of the automatic transmission that contribute to a comfortable and relaxed driving experience.

Of course, this is a Jeep. And though there's only so much capability you can have with a three-row SUV that's 17 feet long, the Grand Cherokee makes the most of what it has. The four-wheel-drive system helps make the most out of slippery situations. This isn't quite a Range Rover, but it'll get you farther into the woods than most other seven-passenger SUVs.

Comfort

8/10

How comfortable is the Grand Cherokee L? Comfort is a strong suit of the Grand Cherokee L. Its long wheelbase and optional air suspension create a cushy ride that absorbs bumps in the road before they make it to passengers inside. It does this without feeling floaty or losing its composure. The leather seats in our Summit test vehicle also proved impressive, with an available massage function in the front row and pleasing comfort in the second and third rows.

This big SUV can't keep noise out of the cabin the way it does with bumps in the road, however. We noticed more wind noise at highway speeds than we expect from this class, and the V6 engine was loud and sounded unpleasant when pushed.

Interior

7/10

How’s the interior? There is loads of space inside the Grand Cherokee L. The front row seats should fit drivers of all sizes, and there's comfortable space for passengers up to 6 feet tall in both the second and third rows. Unfortunately it's a bit of a hike to get inside due to the vehicle's tall ride height, though a helpful tilt-and-slide second row allows for easy access to the third-row seating.

Two big red flags occur up front. First, the controls are swathed in glossy piano black plastic. It easily shows grease smudges and feels more like economy car equipment to the touch. Second, dials are small and hard to grab, while buttons are positioned at strange angles or blocked completely by other controls, which makes operation a frustrating experience. We also noted poor forward visibility because of the Jeep's protruding hood, large pillars, and mass of cameras and radar equipment that take up available windshield space.

Technology

7.5/10

How’s the tech? The Grand Cherokee L is available with Uconnect 5, the latest infotainment system from parent company Stellantis. It has crisp graphics, and the available integrated navigation system provides helpful turn-by-turn route instructions. Unfortunately, the screen is angled upwards and easily reflects glare from direct sunlight. Our test vehicle had the optional 19-speaker McIntosh surround-sound system, but we were left underwhelmed, especially considering the system's cost.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration comes standard, though our test vehicle dropped a call while using CarPlay and the system disconnected two other times without warning. That doesn't often happen in other vehicles with the same technology. We do like the Grand Cherokee L's advanced driver aids. The adaptive cruise control brakes and accelerates smoothly, for instance, and the lane keeping system works great to keep this big SUV where it should be.

Storage

8/10

How’s the storage? The Grand Cherokee L trails some three-row rivals such as the Kia Telluride and Volkswagen Atlas in maximum cargo capacity. Its 17.2 cubic feet of space behind the third row is usable enough for everyday tasks, but the load floor is rather high. Storage for small items is ample, with plenty of cupholders and spacious center console bins in the first and second rows. But we were a bit puzzled why our test vehicle did not have child seat anchors in the third-row cushions.

The Grand Cherokee L offers strong towing capability. It easily outpaces rivals with a 6,200-pound maximum capacity with the V6 and 7,200 pounds with the V8.

Fuel Economy

6.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? The Grand Cherokee L with 4WD and V6 engine gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined, which is average for a midsize three-row SUV. Our test vehicle returned 20.5 mpg on our standardized evaluation route, indicating the EPA estimate should be achievable in real-world driving. Opt for the V8 and you take a hit, however. It's 4WD only and has an EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined.

Value

6.5/10

Is the Grand Cherokee L a good value? Jeep aimed to position the Grand Cherokee L as an every person's SUV with features reserved for luxury vehicles. But instead, it's priced too much like a luxury vehicle. The Grand Cherokee L has a higher starting price than its closest rivals, and it only includes or offers its finest features at more than what you'd pay for a comparable Kia Telluride or Honda Pilot. In those higher trims, the Grand Cherokee L is essentially a luxury SUV — a distinction that it isn't quite cut out for.

We found several issues with the build quality of our test vehicle, whether it was cheap-feeling plastic or an entire center tunnel panel that couldn't withstand a light stress test. The cabin is also awash with glossy piano black surfaces that smudge and glare in sunlight.

Wildcard

8/10

Anything wearing a Jeep badge comes with style and charisma. However, in the Grand Cherokee L, it's style and charisma tailored to a very specific kind of owner. This SUV excels in towing and off-road ability, particularly when equipped with the large (and costly) V8 engine. Lower trim levels, however, don't exhibit the same kind of bravado and lack the user-friendliness that we expect from vehicles in this class. It's big, it's brash, it's a Jeep. But that doesn't make it a great family vehicle.

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L trim level differences

The Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a midsize SUV with three rows of seats for six or seven passengers. Trim levels include the Laredo, Limited, Overland and Summit. All come standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine good for 290 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque. A 5.7-liter V8 engine with 357 hp and 390 lb-ft is optional on the Overland and Summit trims. Both engines are paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive is optional on all trims.

Which Grand Cherokee L trim does Edmunds recommend?

The Grand Cherokee L can quickly become expensive, so our choice is the Limited 4x4 model for its inclusion of standard amenities at a reasonable price. It adds leather seats and a host of interior and exterior lighting upgrades, plus a helpful power liftgate. In its four-wheel-drive configuration, the standard traction management settings will come in handy on adventurous family weekends.

Compare 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$163/mo

$218/mo

Avg. Large SUV

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Reliability

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 2 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Recalls

2 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 25V083000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 11C
Number of vehicles affected:: 133
Defect Description:: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2021-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vehicles. The center stack upper display (DCSD) contains a transistor that may overheat and prevent the rearview camera image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect Consequence:: A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers replaced the DCSD, free of charge. All affected vehicles have been repaired. Owner notification letters were mailed February 27, 2025. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is 11C.

Recall Number:: 24V897000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: B3B
Number of vehicles affected:: 14
Defect Description:: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2021-2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vehicles. An improperly secured connector for the front seat side air bags (SAB) may prevent the air bags from deploying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 214, "Side Impact Protection."
Defect Consequence:: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers secured the connector, free of charge. All affected vehicles have been remedied. Owner notification letters were mailed December 17, 2024. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is B3B.

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles

Jeep Grand Cherokee L Reviews

Owner Reviews

2.5

116 reviews

5(22%)

4(7%)

3(9%)

2(18%)

1(44%)

See all 116 reviews of the Jeep Grand Cherokee L

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Looks great and is great until its not

California Driver, 12/16/2021

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)

I purchased this vehicle in September 2021. One month after driving it I had an electronic steering wheel warning message. The dealership had my brand new car for over a month and said the resolved the issue by replacing the electronic steering system.... fast forward one week and the error message is back and there is recall for the air bag system not working. I am now in the process of …

Beautiful vehicle with excessive issues

Unhappy jeep customer, 12/15/2021

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)

After purchasing my vehicle 3 months ago I am extremely disappointed in the number of recalls in a short amount of time. 1st recall was for a radio issue of which was not effecting my vehicle, but they insisted it needed to be corrected. Ever since I have had issues with my blinkers, the radio going black sporatically and now a recall for airbags. The vehicle has been in the dealership …

First Review

Amy M, 10/27/2021

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Overland 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A)

I bought my 2021 Grand Cherokee L - Overland edition- less then two weeks ago. It had 158 miles on it. Was loving it until today when I left my house the car started acting strange and not shifting down...granted I was only on a road doing 25 mph. The next stop sign- I stopped and proceeded and the car seemed like something was going on. I pulled over turned the car off and turned it …

Unsafe to drive

NeverJeepAgain, 11/21/2021

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit 4dr SUV (3.6L 6cyl 8A)

I really want to love this car. I got a fully loaded Summit Reserve and liked all of the features. Unfortunately, in a month of owning the car, it has almost spent more time in the shop than on the road. I cannot drive it anymore because it will shift into park and every electronic system fails, it has taken anywhere from 4-minutes to 15-minutes to get it restarted while I have …

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L video

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Review | A Long Overdue Three-Row Redesign of Jeep's Popular Midsize SUV

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the most versatile SUVs on the market. The Grand Cherokee not only is one of the more capable off-road SUVs, but it also has the space and comfort that buyers covet from a midsize SUV. Alas, the decade-old design has shown its age, and the Grand Cherokee has been surpassed by newcomers including the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. That…

2021 Grand Cherokee L Highlights

Trim:

Laredo

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$36,995
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	21 MPG
Cost to Drive	$163/month
Seating	6 seats
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the Grand Cherokee L models:

Blind-Spot Monitoring: Alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot.
Parallel and Perpendicular Park Assist: Steers the vehicle into a parking spot with little or no driver intervention.
Hands-free Active Driving Assist: Combines adaptive cruise control and automatic lane-centering to operate the vehicle at any speed with little or no driver intervention.

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2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Review

Price & Payment

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

For sale near Ashburn, VA

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee LLimited 4dr SUV

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee LSummit 4dr SUV

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L trim level differences

Which Grand Cherokee L trim does Edmunds recommend?

Cost to Drive

Reliability

Recalls

Warranty

Jeep Grand Cherokee L Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Looks great and is great until its not

Beautiful vehicle with excessive issues

First Review

Unsafe to drive

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L video

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Review | A Long Overdue Three-Row Redesign of Jeep's Popular Midsize SUV

2021 Grand Cherokee L Highlights

Safety

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