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Jeep Grand Cherokee FAQs


PUBLISHED TUESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2021
Jeep Grand Cherokee FAQs: Hero | CarMax

Learn more about this midsize SUV.

A midsize SUV is a sensible choice when cargo space and utility are near the top of your priority list. And if you want a midsize SUV that offers trim options and powertrain configurations galore, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a must-see. With several trims and engines to choose from, there's a Grand Cherokee out there that suits your needs.

Ready to learn more about the Jeep Grand Cherokee? Dive into our FAQ below to get answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about this midsize SUV.

Jeep Grand Cherokee FAQs

Q: Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee considered a luxury vehicle?

A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee is not considered a luxury model. However, the 2021 Grand Cherokee is available with luxurious features on upper trim levels. The Summit trim, for example, is decked out with upgraded leather seating, chrome exterior accents, a 19-speaker sound system, and more.

Q: What are the different models of Jeep Grand Cherokee?

A: The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in seven different trim configurations: the base Laredo, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, SRT, and Trackhawk. The Summit is considered the luxury trim, whereas the SRT and Trackhawk offer more performance-focused upgrades.

Q: What cars are similar to the Jeep Grand Cherokee?

A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a midsize SUV, and there are many other vehicles in this class. Some examples of the Jeep Grand Cherokee's competitors include the Ford Edge, GMC Terrain, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, and the Land Rover Discovery.

Q: Do Jeep Grand Cherokees have a lot of problems?

A: According to RepairPal® reliability data, the Jeep Grand Cherokee owners have to bring their vehicles into a repair shop for unscheduled repairs an average of 1.4 times per year. This is a little more than the average of 0.9 times per year for all midsize SUVs.1

Q: Which Jeep Grand Cherokee should I buy?

A: The Jeep Grand Cherokee model that's right for you will depend on what you're looking for in a midsize SUV. For example, if you're looking for a model with more performance features, then the SRT or Trackhawk trims will probably be your best bet.

On the other hand, if you prefer more luxurious equipment (such as leather upholstery, a booming 19-speaker sound system, and chrome exterior accents), then the Summit trim may be the right choice for you.

Looking for something without a lot of bells and whistles? The base Laredo trim comes with standard equipment like automatic dual-zone climate control, keyless entry/ignition, smartphone integration, and a seven-inch touchscreen display.

Q: Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee expensive to maintain?

A: According to RepairPal reliability data, the average annual cost for repairs on a Jeep Grand Cherokee is $522, which is slightly more than the average of $460 per year for all midsize SUV models.1

Q: Why are Jeep Grand Cherokees so expensive?

A: The price of a Jeep Grand Cherokee is similar to that of many other midsize SUVs. Part of the reason why the price of a 2021 Grand Cherokee can skew on the higher side is due to the performance-oriented trims (the Trackhawk and the SRT) adding more expensive features, such as a sport-tuned suspension and upgraded transmission.

Q: How much does a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee cost?

A: Many factors can affect how much a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee will cost, including its trim configuration, add-on features/packages, powertrain, and more. However, according to CarMax sales data, the average price of a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is $44,473.2

Q: Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee a reliable car?

A: The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. According to RepairPal reliability data, the Jeep Grand Cherokee receives a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5. As such, it ranks "above average.”1

Q: Is the 2021 Grand Cherokee redesigned?

A: No, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee has not received a full redesign since its fourth generation launched for the 2011 model year. However, the 2021 model year did see the introduction of a new 80th Anniversary Edition package, available on the Limited trim when sold as new.

Q: Is the Wagoneer replacing the Grand Cherokee?

A: As of December 2021, Jeep has not announced any plans for the Grand Cherokee to be replaced. In fact, specs for the 2022 Grand Cherokee have already been released. However, 2022 will also see the debut of the three-row Jeep Wagoneer SUV.

Q: What's the difference between a Grand Cherokee and a Grand Cherokee L?

A: Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L are classified as midsize SUVs. However, the 2021 Grand Cherokee L has a slightly longer wheelbase, allowing it to offer a third row for a seating capacity of six to seven passengers (compared to five passengers on the 2021 Grand Cherokee).

Q: Does the Jeep Grand Cherokee have third row seating?

A: No, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is only available with two rows of seating for up to five people. However, the 2021 Grand Cherokee L is a longer-wheelbase version of the Grand Cherokee that comes with a third row and offers seating for up to seven passengers.

Q: How much should I pay for a Jeep Grand Cherokee?

A: The price of a Jeep Grand Cherokee will depend on many factors, ranging from model year and mileage to trim level and features. For example, a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee sells for an average of $44,473 on CarMax.2 Meanwhile, a 2017 model goes for $28,148 on average.2

Q: Is the Grand Cherokee bigger than the Cherokee?

A: Yes, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is larger than the Jeep Cherokee. On 2021 models, the Grand Cherokee offers 36.3 cubic feet of cargo space (compared to 25.8 cubic feet of cargo space) with all seats intact. The 2021 Grand Cherokee also measures 7.8 inches longer than the 2021 Cherokee.

Q: Which is better off-road: the Cherokee or the Grand Cherokee?

A: Both the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee are designed with off-road capabilities, especially in their upper trim configurations. However, the 2021 Grand Cherokee offers more advanced four-wheel drive systems, including a performance-oriented all-wheel-drive system on the SRT and Trailhawk trims.

Q: Do Jeep Grand Cherokees have a full-size spare?

A: Yes, a full-size spare tire is standard equipment on every 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee, regardless of trim. Specifically, this feature is included as part of the standard Trailer Tow Group IV, which also comes with a seven-pin wiring harness and a rear load-leveling suspension.

Shop for a Used Jeep Grand Cherokee at CarMax

From its generous standard equipment to its motivated engine offerings, there's a lot to love about the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Ready to find used Jeep Grand Cherokee models in your area? Check out our current inventory at CarMax to get started.

1RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of 9/1/2021. Learn more at repairpal.com/reliability.
2Average estimates are based on prices on CarMax.com from January 1, 2020, through June 6, 2021. Actual prices may vary based on your selected model year, features and trim packages. Prices do not include taxes, tags, titles, and any applicable fees.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.

* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

Unless otherwise noted, information related to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.