The Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Jeep Grand Cherokee L

What Are The Differences in Size and Style?

Take one look at either the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee L and you’ll see a phenomenal unibody construction and empowering design that’s sure to turn heads from Fox Chapel to Aspinwall. It’s important to note there are some differences overall in terms of size and style.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee L might share similarly rugged yet refined designs, but their physical differences cater to distinct needs. Both models feature premium materials and a modern aesthetic inside and out, but the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a two-row SUV with seating for up to five passengers, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee L includes a third row, accommodating up to seven passengers. This additional row in the Jeep Grand Cherokee L also impacts storage capacity, with the Jeep Grand Cherokee offering up to 70.8 cu. ft. of cargo room when the rear seats are folded down, compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee L with 84.6 cu. ft. That extra space and seating could provide ample reason for you to choose the Jeep Grand Cherokee L depending on how many passengers you’ll expect to have on the regular or if you need as much cargo room as possible. Likewise, the smaller Jeep Grand Cherokee could be advantageous for city driving, making it ideal if you don’t need as much space.

Both models come with a variety of trims allowing for enhanced technology, refined interiors and more. They largely share trim levels like the Altitude, Overland and Summit. However, one area where the Jeep Grand Cherokee wins out is in the option to go hybrid. Electric vehicles have been on the rise and Jeep has taken the opportunity to kit some of their popular models with electric alternatives which includes the Jeep Grand Cherokee. If you want the power of the Grand Cherokee line and the benefits of a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV), only the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers that with the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. You should examine potential trims when choosing either vehicle, just know that the choice to go hybrid is exclusive to the Jeep Grand Cherokee. If you have any questions related to trims or the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, please feel free to ask us.

What About Interiors and Features?

The interiors of both models are all about combining comfort, utility and advanced technology, so each drive around Fox Chapel is one to remember.

As previously mentioned, the seating is different for the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee L with two-row and three-row accommodations respectively. When it comes to utility, both take advantage of cutting-edge connectivity in the form of wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration and the Jeep® app, allowing you to sync your smartphone with the Uconnect infotainment system found on both models. This lets you get alerts about traffic, repairs, vehicle reports and more. It emphasizes convenience and utility, a hallmark of Jeep. Both models offer optional premium upgrades such as ambient lighting, a high-end audio system and advanced driver-assistance features, but the Jeep Grand Cherokee L adds family-friendly touches like additional USB ports and tri-zone climate control, giving it a slight edge.

It isn’t just about utility, however, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee L share a strong focus on safety, offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to keep passengers secure. Both models include advanced driver-assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking. Front and rear parking sensors are also included, enhancing maneuverability in tight spaces. Additional available safety features include a 360-degree surround-view camera, night vision and intersection collision assist for added confidence. When it comes to safety, you’re getting the same reliable driving experience with both models.

How Do They Compare In Capability and Options?

Plenty of drivers, from Freeport to Oakmont, choose Jeep because they want a vehicle they can rely on to brave any challenge. Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee L uphold a legacy of unparalleled performance, but how do they compare to each other in power and performance?

Both models share a similar powertrain option, offering a balance of performance and versatility. Each comes standard with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving and towing needs. It’s important to factor in design though, the bulkier Jeep Grand Cherokee L is better suited for off-road driving versus the more urban-oriented Jeep Grand Cherokee. Also, the base trim for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Laredo A, only comes as a Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) with higher trims offering the option for Four-Wheel Drive (4WD).

Of course, performance isn’t just measured by raw power, fuel economy can be just as – if not more – important for drivers when cruising through Harrison Township. Still, the two remain neck and neck, boasting similar numbers for overall efficiency. Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee L have an EPA-estimated 22 combined mpg. The performance is ultimately very comparable between the two and likely won’t factor as much into your decision as price, size and interior features. That said, the fact that the Jeep Grand Cherokee can be purchased as a PHEV could be a reason to choose it, specifically if you’re looking for electric efficiency.

Which Model Fits Your Budget?

Investing in Jeep isn’t just about the reliability and performance, it’s about the value derived from choosing a manufacturer with a legacy of excellence in their lineup. How do the two fare when compared pricewise?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee costs less overall with the base model, the Laredo A, starting at $36,495 MSRP, beating the Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo which starts at $40,035 MSRP. Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee L come with Jeep’s standard warranty, which includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, ensuring coverage for key repairs and peace of mind for owners.

#1 Cochran Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram also frequently holds specials for new and used vehicles. There’s also our certified pre-owned program which offers vehicles that have undergone a 152-point inspection, receive 24/7 roadside assistance and a 7-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty. If you have any questions related to cost or warranties, please feel free to contact us.

Should I Choose the Jeep Grand Cherokee or Jeep Grand Cherokee L?

The good news is that no matter your choice between the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee L, you’ll be getting a capable SUV great for family road trips and drives through Pittsburgh alike.

You should specifically focus on a few things: size, options and price. The Jeep Grand Cherokee has a lower MSRP starting point and has the option to be a PHEV, great for maximizing long term value. However, depending on your overall needs, the bigger Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers more for larger families and those in need of more cargo room in addition to a few extra features. Envision your ideal driving experience and factor in the size and specs of both models, that can help you make your choice.

Whether you choose one of them, or decide you want to see the rest of our lineup, feel free to visit us at #1 Cochran Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. From Sarver to Oakmont and all across Western PA, drivers can always rely on the #1 Cochran family for all their automotive needs.