The midsize Jeep Grand Cherokee will get a complete redesign for the 2022 model year, including a longer, 3-row version for the first time. The automaker took the wraps off that version – the Grand Cherokee L – today. First impressions are going very well.
Check out our list of the best 3-row SUVs. The Grand Cherokee L will appear on the list once our editors get the chance to review it.
Entirely New
The Grand Cherokee L rides on an entirely new platform not yet used for any other vehicle. It features more aluminum construction than most other SUVs its size, to keep weight down. Each corner gets an independent multilink suspension. Ground clearance is 8.5 inches, though an optional air suspension lets drivers set it from 8.3 to 10.9.
A sharper front fascia and tailored shoulder lines give it a trimmer look than the outgoing model despite its new bulk. It’s less linebacker on game day, more linebacker in a suit. A rumored 2-tone color scheme with a contrasting roof has not yet been shown but could appear as a special edition down the line.
Mechanical Details
Under the hood, options include a base 3.6-liter V6 making 290 horsepower, or a 5.7-liter V8 making 357. Jeep traditionally offers a more performance-oriented version after the vehicle is revealed, so we wouldn’t be surprised to see a third engine announced before the SUV reaches showrooms. An 8-speed automatic transmission is the only option. Three different 4-wheel drive systems will be available – a single-speed system giving commuters better traction, a more trail-ready one with a low-range gear set, and a hardcore off-road system with electronically controlled limited-slip differential.
Three Rows
But the biggest news is inside. Buyers can order the second row as a bench seat or two bucket seats, with that new third row serving as the traditional bench back seat. A 10.25-inch instrument display, 10-inch infotainment screen, and optional heads-up display are all highly customizable, allowing drivers to specify what information they’d like to know and where. Metal dash accents are standard, with real wood and leather as optional upgrades.
Four trim levels will be offered, the base Laredo, more upscale Limited, off-road-oriented Overland, and top-of-the-line Summit. The Grand Cherokee L enters production first, likely to be available by the second quarter of 2021. The two-row model and a hybrid will follow.
We expect to see a price announcement close to the launch. The current 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee starts at just over $34,000 with top trim levels that retail above $50,000. The high-performance V8 SRT and Trackhawk sell for nearly $70,000 and $88,000, respectively. The upcoming 3-row 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer will cost upwards of $55,000.
