2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Trims, Specs, Reliability and Owner Guide
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a confusing model year. Jeep sold two different Grand Cherokees at the same time: the long running five seat SUV, and the all new three row Grand Cherokee L. They share a name, but they differ in size, technology, and even where the battery sits.
This guide explains how to tell them apart, which trim fits your needs, what the reliability record looks like, and answers the owner questions people search for most: where the battery is, how much oil it takes, how to change the wipers, and how to connect CarPlay.
Specs, prices, and procedures vary by trim and options. Confirm details with your owner’s manual, a Jeep dealer, and the vehicle’s VIN before you buy parts or make a purchase.
The Short Answer
- Two body styles: the five seat Grand Cherokee and the longer, three row Grand Cherokee L.
- Engines: a 3.6 liter V6 on most trims, a 5.7 liter V8 optional on many, a 6.4 liter V8 in the SRT, and a supercharged 707 horsepower V8 in the Trackhawk.
- Transmission: eight speed automatic across the lineup.
- Towing: up to 7,200 pounds on the five seat model, and 6,200 pounds on the L with the V6.
- Reliability: Consumer Reports expects the 2021 model to be less reliable than the average new car, so a pre purchase inspection is worth the money.
Which 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Is This? A 30 Second Identifier
If you are shopping online or reading a listing, use this quick check:
- Look at the name. “Grand Cherokee L” means the three row model.
- Check the length. The L adds about 15 inches of body length.
- Count the seats. Five seats is the standard model, and six or seven is the L.
- Check the trims. The standard model includes Trailhawk, High Altitude, SRT, and Trackhawk. The L offers Laredo, Limited, Overland, and Summit only.
- Look at the screen. Many L models use the newer Uconnect 5 system with a larger display.
This matters, because parts, procedures, and prices are different for each version.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trims and Starting Prices
Five seat Grand Cherokee. Trims include Laredo (with Laredo E, Laredo X, Upland, and Altitude packages), Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, High Altitude, the new 80th Anniversary model, and the high performance SRT and Trackhawk. New for 2021 were the Laredo X, which added navigation, remote start, a power liftgate, and heated seats and steering wheel, plus the 80th Anniversary edition. When new, the Laredo started around $35,700.
Grand Cherokee L. Trims include Laredo, Limited, Overland, and Summit, with a Summit Reserve option on top. When new, the L Laredo started around $38,700, and prices climbed to roughly $58,700 for the Summit.
Used prices vary widely by mileage, trim, and region, so compare local listings.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Specs, MPG and Towing
- 3.6 liter V6: about 295 horsepower in the five seat model and 293 in the L. It is the standard engine for most trims.
- 5.7 liter HEMI V8: about 360 horsepower in the five seat model and 357 in the L.
- 6.4 liter V8 (SRT): 475 horsepower.
- 6.2 liter supercharged V8 (Trackhawk): 707 horsepower.
- Fuel economy: V6 models are rated roughly 18 to 19 mpg in the city and 25 to 26 mpg on the highway, depending on drivetrain.
- Towing: up to 7,200 pounds on the five seat model, and 6,200 pounds on the L with the V6. Check the window sticker for your configuration.
Four wheel drive systems range from simple setups to the Quadra Drive II system with an electronic limited slip rear differential on Trailhawk models and some Overland versions.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L: The Three Row Version
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is the biggest change to the lineup in years. It adds a third row of seats and about 15 inches of body length, which gives it far more cargo room and a more upscale feel.
Key points for L buyers:
- The standard engine is the 293 horsepower V6, and a 357 horsepower V8 is available on upper trims.
- Towing with the V6 is rated at 6,200 pounds.
- Many models use the Uconnect 5 system, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay.
- Summit and Summit Reserve trims offer a luxury level interior.
- The third row is best for children or short trips, as in most midsize three row SUVs.
If you need to carry more than five people regularly, the L is the better choice. If you want a shorter, easier to park vehicle, the standard model makes more sense.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo
The Laredo is the entry trim. It includes the V6 engine and a good base of equipment, and the Laredo X package adds popular comfort and tech features. It is a smart choice for buyers who want the Grand Cherokee’s capability without paying for leather and luxury features. Look for a Laredo X or a Laredo with the Altitude package if you want more features without a big price jump.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited
The Limited sits above the Laredo and is the most common trim on used lots. It typically adds nicer seat materials, more standard tech, and more comfort features, and it offers more engine and drivetrain choices. For many buyers it is the best balance of price and features.
The Trim Chooser (What Most Guides Skip)
Instead of reading every trim list, pick by buyer type:
- Budget buyer: Laredo or Laredo X, five seat model.
- Family of five or fewer: Limited, five seat model.
- Family of six or seven: Grand Cherokee L Limited.
- Off road fan: Trailhawk, with Quadra Drive II and available air suspension on four wheel drive trims.
- Comfort seeker: Overland or Summit.
- Speed seeker: SRT or Trackhawk, and be ready for higher running costs.
- Tow a trailer: Choose the V8 if you often tow near the limit.
Is the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reliable?
The honest answer is mixed. Consumer Reports expects the 2021 Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L to be less reliable than the average vehicle. The standard model has also seen a relatively high number of recalls.
Owners and complaint databases mention these areas more often than others:
- Uconnect infotainment freezing or becoming unresponsive
- Power steering issues on some Ls
- No start problems in very cold weather
- Windshield cracking in some cars
- Water leaks from panoramic sunroof drains, especially on the longer L
- Rattles at highway speed on some vehicles
Many cars run fine for years, and with good maintenance a Grand Cherokee can last well beyond 150,000 miles. But a vehicle history report, a service record check, and a pre purchase inspection are strongly recommended. Also run the VIN through the official NHTSA recall tool to confirm all recall work is done.
Where Is the Battery on a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee?
- Five seat Grand Cherokee: the battery is in the engine bay. You may need to remove a cover or part of the air intake area to reach it.
- Grand Cherokee L: one source places the battery under the front passenger seat, which is an unusual location, so confirm the position and access method in your owner’s manual before you start.
If you disconnect the battery, you may need to reset the clock, radio presets, or windows. Use a battery of the correct size and type, because modern Jeeps are sensitive to the wrong battery.
How Much Oil Does a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Take?
It depends on the engine:
- 3.6 liter V6: about 6 quarts with a filter, using 0W 20 oil.
- 5.7 liter HEMI V8: about 7 quarts, using 5W 20 oil.
- 6.4 liter SRT and 6.2 liter Trackhawk: different oil specifications, often a 40 weight, so check the manual.
Always match the viscosity and specification printed on the oil filler cap and in the owner’s manual. Add oil slowly and check the dipstick or oil level display after a few minutes.
How to Change Wiper Blades on a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Find the correct size. Check the owner’s manual or a parts lookup tool using your VIN. Driver and passenger sides are often different lengths.
- Lift the wiper arm away from the glass until it locks in the upright position. Put a towel on the windshield to protect it.
- Press the release tab on the blade connector and slide the old blade down and off the arm.
- Slide the new blade on until it clicks.
- Lower the arm gently onto the glass.
- Replace the rear wiper too if your Jeep has one, and test all wipers with washer fluid.
How to Connect a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee to CarPlay
- Grand Cherokee L with Uconnect 5: it supports wireless Apple CarPlay. Turn on Bluetooth and Wi Fi on your iPhone, pair the phone from the Phone menu on the Jeep screen, and accept the CarPlay prompt.
- Five seat Grand Cherokee with Uconnect 4: use a wired connection. Plug an Apple USB cable into the Jeep’s USB port, and tap the CarPlay prompt on the screen.
If CarPlay will not connect:
- Try a different, high quality cable.
- Check that Siri is turned on and CarPlay is not blocked in iPhone settings.
- Delete the old pairing from both the phone and the Jeep, then pair again.
- Restart the phone and turn the vehicle off and on.
- Check for software updates for your phone and the Uconnect system.
Pre Purchase Checklist for a Used 2021 Grand Cherokee
- Confirm whether it is the five seat model or the L.
- Run a vehicle history report and the NHTSA recall check by VIN.
- Test the Uconnect screen, CarPlay, backup camera, and all driver assist features.
- Check power steering feel on a cold start.
- Listen for rattles at highway speed.
- Look for water stains near the panoramic sunroof and headliner.
- Check air suspension operation on Trailhawk, Overland, and Summit models.
- Ask for service records, especially oil changes.
- Test the power liftgate.
- Get an independent inspection before you buy.
Final Thoughts
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is capable, comfortable, and available in more flavors than almost any SUV in its class. The key is to know which version you are looking at, choose the trim that fits your real needs, and take reliability seriously. Buy a clean, well documented example, confirm that all recalls are completed, and a 2021 Grand Cherokee can be a strong used SUV.
FAQ
What is the difference between the 2021 Grand Cherokee and the Grand Cherokee L?
The L is longer by about 15 inches and has a third row of seats. It also has different trims and often a newer infotainment system.
How much horsepower does the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee have?
The V6 makes about 293 to 295 horsepower. The 5.7 liter V8 makes about 357 to 360, the SRT makes 475, and the Trackhawk makes 707.
How much can a 2021 Grand Cherokee tow?
Up to 7,200 pounds on the five seat model, and 6,200 pounds on the L with the V6.
Is the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee reliable?
It is rated as less reliable than average by Consumer Reports. A history report and inspection are recommended.
Which 2021 Grand Cherokee trim is best?
The Limited is the best balance for most buyers, the Laredo is the value pick, and the Trailhawk is the off road choice.
How much oil does a 2021 Grand Cherokee take?
About 6 quarts for the 3.6 liter V6 and about 7 quarts for the 5.7 liter V8. Confirm in your manual.
Does the 2021 Grand Cherokee have Apple CarPlay?
Yes. The L supports wireless CarPlay with Uconnect 5, and the five seat model uses a wired connection.
Does the Grand Cherokee L have a third row?
Yes. The L is the three row version.