2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L: US News & Reviews
Let's dive into the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, focusing on what US News & World Report has to say about it. This review is super helpful for anyone considering buying or just wanting to learn more about this SUV. We'll break down the key aspects, from its performance and interior to its safety features and overall ranking, giving you a clear picture of what to expect.
Overview of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
First off, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is Jeep's venture into the three-row SUV market, building upon the well-regarded Grand Cherokee. US News highlights its spacious interior, especially in the first two rows, and its impressive towing capacity. This makes it a practical choice for families and those who need to haul trailers or boats. The Grand Cherokee L comes with several engine options, including a powerful V6 and a robust V8, providing ample power for various driving conditions. The ride quality is generally comfortable, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively. However, keep in mind that the third-row seating is best suited for children or shorter adults, as legroom can be limited. From a tech standpoint, the Grand Cherokee L boasts an intuitive infotainment system with a user-friendly touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration, keeping you connected on the go. Overall, US News acknowledges the Grand Cherokee L as a competitive option in the three-row SUV segment, offering a blend of comfort, capability, and technology. It's definitely a contender worth considering if you're in the market for a versatile family vehicle.
US News Ranking and Score
When it comes to rankings, US News thoroughly evaluates vehicles based on various factors, and the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is no exception. The score reflects its performance, interior quality, safety ratings, and overall value proposition. While the exact ranking may fluctuate depending on the specific criteria and comparison with other SUVs in its class, US News's assessment provides valuable insights. Typically, the ranking considers factors like the availability of advanced safety features, the quality of materials used in the interior, and the overall driving experience. A higher score generally indicates a more well-rounded vehicle that excels in multiple areas. It's worth noting that US News also takes into account the opinions of automotive journalists and real-world owner reviews, providing a comprehensive perspective. Therefore, checking the US News ranking and score for the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L can give you a quick snapshot of its strengths and weaknesses compared to its competitors. Keep an eye on how it stacks up against other three-row SUVs you might be considering.
Performance and Engine Options
Let's get into the nitty-gritty of performance. The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers a couple of engine choices to suit different driving needs. The standard engine is a 3.6-liter V6, which provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency for everyday driving. It delivers enough punch for merging onto highways and tackling city streets. For those who crave more muscle, there's an available 5.7-liter V8 that amps up the horsepower and torque significantly. This engine is particularly useful if you plan on towing heavy loads or frequently driving in hilly terrain. US News often highlights the V8's impressive towing capacity, making the Grand Cherokee L a capable hauler. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which delivers smooth and responsive shifts. In terms of handling, the Grand Cherokee L offers a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively. It's not the sportiest SUV in its class, but it provides a confident and composed driving experience. The availability of four-wheel drive further enhances its capabilities, making it suitable for various weather conditions and light off-roading. Overall, the Grand Cherokee L's performance and engine options provide a versatile driving experience, catering to both daily commutes and more demanding tasks. When considering which engine is right for you, think about your typical driving needs and how often you'll be towing or carrying heavy loads.
Interior Comfort and Features
Stepping inside the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, you'll find a spacious and well-appointed cabin. US News often praises the quality of materials used, especially in the higher trim levels. The first two rows offer ample legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for adult passengers. However, the third-row seating is a bit tighter and best suited for children or shorter adults. The Grand Cherokee L comes standard with a user-friendly infotainment system featuring a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. Higher trim levels add features like a larger touchscreen, premium audio system, and a head-up display. Other notable interior features include available leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The design is both functional and stylish, with intuitive controls and a modern aesthetic. US News also points out the generous cargo space behind the third row, which can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. This makes it a practical choice for families who need to haul groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. Overall, the interior of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L provides a comfortable and refined environment, with plenty of features to keep you connected and entertained on the road. When evaluating the interior, consider which features are most important to you and how they align with your budget and needs.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Technologies
When it comes to safety, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect you and your passengers. US News typically highlights its strong safety ratings from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. These technologies help prevent accidents by alerting you to potential hazards and even taking corrective action if necessary. Available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. These features provide added peace of mind by enhancing your awareness of your surroundings and helping you avoid collisions. The Grand Cherokee L also comes with advanced airbag systems and a sturdy construction designed to withstand impacts. US News often emphasizes the importance of these safety features in their overall evaluation of the vehicle. When considering the safety of the Grand Cherokee L, be sure to check the latest safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS and familiarize yourself with the available driver-assistance technologies. Prioritizing safety is always a smart move when choosing a vehicle, especially for families.
Fuel Economy
Let's be real, fuel economy matters, right? The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's fuel efficiency varies depending on the engine and drivetrain you choose. The 3.6-liter V6 with rear-wheel drive generally offers the best fuel economy, while the 5.7-liter V8 with four-wheel drive will be the least fuel-efficient. US News provides estimates for both city and highway driving, allowing you to compare the Grand Cherokee L's fuel consumption to other SUVs in its class. Keep in mind that real-world fuel economy can vary depending on your driving habits, road conditions, and the weight you're carrying. If fuel efficiency is a major concern, you might want to consider the V6 engine and avoid unnecessary options that add weight to the vehicle. US News also notes that the Grand Cherokee L's fuel economy is comparable to other three-row SUVs, but it's not a standout in this area. Before making a decision, be sure to factor in your typical driving patterns and how much you value fuel efficiency versus performance. While the Grand Cherokee L offers a comfortable and capable driving experience, it's important to be aware of its fuel consumption, especially if you do a lot of driving.
Pricing and Trims
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L comes in a variety of trims, each offering a different level of features and equipment. US News provides a breakdown of the starting prices for each trim, allowing you to compare them and find one that fits your budget. The base trim typically includes essential features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and basic safety technologies. Higher trims add features like leather upholstery, heated seats, premium audio systems, and advanced driver-assistance technologies. US News also points out that the higher trims can get quite expensive, so it's important to carefully consider which features you really need. When choosing a trim, think about your priorities and how much you're willing to spend. It's also a good idea to compare the prices and features of the Grand Cherokee L to other three-row SUVs in its class. US News provides valuable insights into the value proposition of each trim, helping you make an informed decision. Ultimately, the best trim for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.
Pros and Cons According to US News
To wrap things up, let's summarize the pros and cons of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, according to US News. On the pro side, US News often praises its spacious interior, especially in the first two rows, its powerful engine options, and its impressive towing capacity. It also highlights the user-friendly infotainment system and the availability of advanced safety features. On the con side, US News notes that the third-row seating is a bit cramped, the fuel economy is not the best, and the higher trims can be quite expensive. Overall, US News acknowledges the Grand Cherokee L as a competitive option in the three-row SUV segment, offering a blend of comfort, capability, and technology. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consider your individual needs and priorities before making a decision. By consulting US News's comprehensive review, you can gain a better understanding of the Grand Cherokee L's strengths and weaknesses and determine if it's the right SUV for you.
So there you have it, a detailed look at the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L through the lens of US News & World Report. Hope this helps you in your car-buying journey!
