Few vehicles out on the road last the way Jeeps do. There's a reason you see Wranglers and Cherokees of every year, make, and model dotting the streets. All Jeeps are built to last.
So, when the everlasting Grand Cherokee stepped out in 2021, they were determined to put the doldrums of 2020 behind us and present the world with something brand new.
The manufacturers have successfully paired gritty elements like horsepower and torque with more refined elements like Palermo leather and walnut wood.
So, what's new between the 2021 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2020 Jeep Cherokee? Buckle up, friends. You're never going to want to step out of this joy ride.
What's New
When a Jeep Grand Cherokee pulls out onto the road, heads start turning, especially when it’s shiny and brand new.
And rightly so. It's not just a gorgeous machine, it's well-appointed and built to last. Let's take a look at some of the most notable new additions to the 2021 Grand Cherokee.
Three-Row Seating
So, what's new about the 2021 Jeep Cherokee? The short answer to that is three-row seating! We simply must start here.
This is the first time three-row seating is being offered in the history of the model and, understandably, everyone is abuzz.
You'll find this in the Grand Cherokee L, which is available in base Laredo, Limited, Overland, and Summit models.
While the Jeep Grand Cherokee has always been earmarked as a refined and luxurious SUV, it now steps into the full-size SUV with this addition.
Luxurious Interior
With an ability to accommodate added passengers, they'll also be sitting in the lap of luxury. The standout model for interior changes is the Summit Reserve trim.
We've read reviews where they compare the caramel-colored, hand-wrapped, quilted Palermo leather seats to a Bentley. Also, the waxed walnut wooden accents are stunning.
In this model, the seats offer 16-way adjustments, massaging elements, and heated/cooled seats (in the front and second-row seats).
This puts the Jeep Grand Cherokee light years ahead of in-class competitors like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. They, too, may offer three-row seating but they, in no way, compare to the luxury offered by the Summit Reserve.
High-Class Technology
Have you ever heard of head-up displays? While the technology here is pretty standard (as far as new models go), it's the head-up display we must discuss.
In the new Grand Cherokee, you'll enjoy a 10-inch touchscreen that pairs with Apple CarPlay or Android auto. But, here's the best part.
With head-up technology, all those calls, texts, emails, and navigation directions are projected onto the windshield in an effort to reduce distracted driving and help people keep their eyes on the road.
We absolutely love this. We'd almost consider it a safety feature, but we'll get to those in a moment.
Performance
Here's another thing that ranks all Jeeps well-above any in-class competitors: their power. There's no comparison between a Jeep's off-road capabilities and a Kia's or a Hyundai's.
Take the available 5.7L Hemi V8. There, you're looking at 357-horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque.
No other full-size SUV can climb a mountain like the Grand Cherokee. So, start planning those off-road trips with friends and family, high up in the mountains and close to the stars.
Safety Features
Jeep meets safety and security measures through their ProTech Safety and Security packages. There are two: ProTech I and ProTech II.
ProTech I comes standard on all Grand Cherokee models. ProTech II is available on models like the Laredo, Laredo X, High Altitude, Summit SRT, Trailhawk, Limited, and Overland.
ProTech I comes with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection (which helps you detect other vehicles or objects crossing your path in reverse), park assist, and a backup camera.
ProTech II features forward collision warning, lane departure warning, auto high beams, and advanced brake assist.
Still, there are over 70 standard safety features in every model, not the least of which includes seven airbags.
Also, each chassis is made with high-strength steel that's engineered to direct crash energy away from the cabin, protecting you and your loved ones.
Trims and Pricing
Jeep does not leave its buyers wanting when it comes to Cherokee trims. Below, we're going to compare Jeep Cherokee models, listing them in order, from lowest to highest MSRP.
- Laredo X 4x2: $32,350
- Laredo E 4x2: $32,350
- Laredo E 4x4: $34,650
- Laredo X 4x4: $34,650
- Limited 4x2: $40,155
- 80th Anniversary 4x2: $40,155
- Limited X 4x2: $40,175
- Limited 4x4: $42,155
- 80th Anniversary 4x4: $42,155
- Limited X 4x4: $42,175
- Trailhawk 4x4: $45,355
- Overland 4x2: $46,695
- High Altitude 4x2: $46,695
- Overland 4x4: $49,695
- High Altitude 4x4: $49,695
- Summit 4x2: $52,695
- Summit 4x4: $55,695
- SRT 4x4: $69,145
- Trackhawk 4x4: $87,650
2021 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2020 Jeep Cherokee
What do you think? What's your decision on the 2021 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2020 Jeep Cherokee debate? We think they worked really hard to put forth a beast of an SUV with every last bell and whistle one could desire.
Aside from all the pretty trims and luxurious leather, there's one thing that can never be denied: Jeeps offer the best performance of any SUV out there on the road today.
Last summer, we saw a Jeep Wrangler tow a pickup truck out of the surf at the ocean. (We won't name the brand of pickup truck!)
So, when you're ready for high-class performance and top-shelf quality, come on over and visit us here at Patterson Chrysler Dodge RAM Jeep.
We proudly serve the Shreveport, Longview, and Tyler communities here in Texas and would love to make you a member of our family.