Pros: Availability of unique SRT/Trackhawk high-performance models; tough-to-match off-road prowess; classy, upscale interiors in higher-end models
Cons: Not as good a value as many class competitors; rear legroom can grow cramped; poor fuel economy in SRT and Trackhawk models
CG Says: The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee adds a new 80th Anniversary model with unique trim and a Laredo X with standard navigation, heated seats, and power liftgate. The Grand Cherokee lineup grows for 2021 with the addition of the all-new Grand Cherokee L (see separate report), a three-row model that fits into the large SUV class. The “non-L” Grand Cherokee covered here is a two-row model that is built on a platform that dates back to the 2011 model year; it is scheduled to be redesigned on a shorter version of the new L’s platform next year, and gain a plug-in-hybrid “4xe” version in the process. Jeep offers a wide choice of engines in the Grand Cherokee, with horsepower ranging from 295 to 707. The base engine is a 295-hp 3.6-liter V6. Three V8s are available: a 360-hp 5.7-liter, a 475-hp 6.4-liter, and a 707-hp supercharged 6.2-liter. All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. SRT and Trackhawk have standard all-wheel drive, while other models are available with rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive—except the off-road oriented Trailhawk which is 4WD only. A 2-speed transfer case is optional. Available features include autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, parallel parking assist, trailer-hitch camera, panoramic sunroof, and power tilt/telescoping steering wheel. Grand Cherokee has evolved into sort of a poor-man’s Range Rover, and that’s not a bad thing. It can be equipped for severe off-road use or country club luxury–or both–and that helps set it apart from its 5-passenger rivals in this class. So do its higher towing limits. But most buyers who want a midsize SUV for more normal driving will likely find others in this class to be a better value from a features-per-dollar standpoint.
| Class | Midsize SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Jeep |
| Nation of Manufacture | USA |
| Base Prices | Laredo: $35,695 4WD Laredo: $37,695 Laredo X: $39,240 4WD Laredo X: $41,240 Limited: $41,895 4WD Limited: $43,895 80th Anniversary: $44,075 4WD 80th Anniversary: $46,075 4WD Trailhawk: $47,095 Overland: $48,435 4WD Overland: $51,435 High Altitude: $51,380 4WD High Altitude: $54,380 Summit: $54,785 4WD Summit: $57,785 4WD SRT: $70,885 4WD Trackhawk: $89,390 |
| Base Engine 3.6-liter V6 (Laredo, Laredo X, Limited, 80th Anniversary, Trailhawk, Overland, High Altitude, Summit) |
| Horsepower 295 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 18-19 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 25-26 |
| Optional Engine 5.7-liter V8 |
| Horsepower 360 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 14 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 22 |
| Optional Engine 6.4-liter V8 (SRT) |
| Horsepower 475 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 13 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 19 |
| Optional Engine supercharged 6.2-liter V8 (Trackhawk) |
| Horsepower 707 |
| Std. Transmission 8-speed automatic |
| Avail. Transmission NA |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 11 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 17 |
