2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee L: Which One Fits Your Family?
The 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L are the same SUV in two lengths. The two-row Grand Cherokee starts at $41,515 MSRP and seats five. The three-row Grand Cherokee L starts at $43,515 MSRP and seats six or seven. Engines, transmission, and 6,200-lb maximum towing are identical. So the decision comes down to one question: do you need a third row?
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Maximum towing and payload capacity figures are based on properly equipped vehicles and vary by configuration. Do not exceed any weight rating. See your owner's manual and the vehicle's door-jamb label for specific capacities.
The Short Answer for High Desert Drivers
Do you regularly carry more than five people? Then the Grand Cherokee L is the only one of the two that can do it. If you don't, the two-row Grand Cherokee saves you $2,000 MSRP. It also parks easier and keeps far more space behind the last row your family actually sits in.
Everything else is a wash. Both models run the same engines through the same eight-speed automatic. Both tow up to 6,200 lbs when properly equipped. Both come with rear-wheel drive standard and four-wheel drive available. Head into Joshua Tree National Park for a weekend or run SR-62 between Yucca Valley and Twentynine Palms, and neither model gives up capability to the other.
Both are on the lot at Joshua Tree CDJR. You can compare them side by side in our showroom on 29 Palms Highway. For the rest of the lineup, start with our CDJR vehicle research hub.
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Maximum towing and payload capacity figures are based on properly equipped vehicles and vary by configuration. Do not exceed any weight rating. See your owner's manual and the vehicle's door-jamb label for specific capacities.
Pricing: What the Third Row Costs
The three-row Grand Cherokee L carries a $2,000 MSRP premium over the equivalent two-row trim. That premium holds across the lineup. Moving from rear-wheel drive to four-wheel drive costs another $2,000 MSRP on trims where 4x4 is optional.
Two-row Grand Cherokee: ten trims
The 2027 Grand Cherokee comes in ten trims. They are the Laredo, Laredo X, Laredo Altitude, Laredo Upland, Limited, Limited Altitude, Limited Reserve, Trailhawk, Overland, and Summit.
The Laredo Upland is new for 2027. It pairs Trailhawk-inspired styling, 18-inch wheels, and all-terrain tires at a lower price point.
The Trail Rated Trailhawk and the upscale Overland return after a one-year absence, and both are scheduled for late availability. Published starting prices include the Laredo Upland at $49,990 MSRP, the Trailhawk at $54,995 MSRP, the Overland at $57,895 MSRP, and the Summit at $62,895 MSRP.
Three-row Grand Cherokee L: six trims
The 2027 Grand Cherokee L comes in six trims: Laredo, Laredo X, Laredo Altitude, Limited, Limited Reserve, and Summit. Published starting prices run from $43,515 MSRP for the Laredo up to $64,895 MSRP for the Summit.
The Upland, Trailhawk, Overland, and Limited Altitude are two-row exclusives. On the late-availability trims, ordering ahead of allocation is worth considering. It's also worth checking our current new Jeep offers before you decide.
| 2027 Trim | Grand Cherokee (2-Row) | Grand Cherokee L (3-Row) |
|---|---|---|
| Laredo | Available | Available |
| Laredo X | Available | Available |
| Laredo Altitude | Available | Available |
| Laredo Upland | Available | Not offered |
| Limited | Available | Available |
| Limited Altitude | Available | Not offered |
| Limited Reserve | Available | Available |
| Trailhawk | Available (late availability) | Not offered |
| Overland | Available (late availability) | Not offered |
| Summit | Available | Available |
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Seating and Cargo: Where the Two Models Differ
Seating: five, or six to seven
This is the real fork in the road. The two-row Grand Cherokee seats five. The Grand Cherokee L seats six with its standard second-row captain's chairs. Add the available second-row bench and it seats seven.
Cargo: it depends how you measure
With every seat occupied, the two-row wins by a wide margin. It holds 37.7 cu ft behind the second row. The Grand Cherokee L holds 17.2 cu ft behind the third row. That is roughly double the space for a family that fits in five seats.
Fold everything flat and the answer flips. The longer Grand Cherokee L opens up to 84.6 cu ft. The two-row tops out at 70.8 cu ft.
That trade-off is the whole decision. A family of four or five loading coolers and packs for Joshua Tree is better served by the two-row. A family that regularly seats six or seven, and packs lighter, is better served by the L.
The Grand Cherokee L also earns family hardware the two-row doesn't offer. Available Interior FamCam keeps an eye on the back rows. An available power-folding third-row bench makes reconfiguring easier. Six USB ports put USB-A and USB-C in every row, and Quad-Zone Automatic Temperature Control is available.
| Specification | 2027 Grand Cherokee | 2027 Grand Cherokee L |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $41,515 | $43,515 |
| Rows and seating capacity | 2 rows, 5 seats | 3 rows, 6 or 7 seats |
| Cargo behind last row, all seats up | 37.7 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft |
| Max cargo, rear seats folded | 70.8 cu ft | 84.6 cu ft |
| Max towing, properly equipped | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs |
| Overall length | 193.5 in | 204.9 in (Summit) |
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Maximum towing and payload capacity figures are based on properly equipped vehicles and vary by configuration. Do not exceed any weight rating. See your owner's manual and the vehicle's door-jamb label for specific capacities.
Engines, Towing, and Efficiency
Both models share the same two powertrains. Nothing is held back from the three-row.
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 is standard on the Laredo and Laredo X. It produces 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque in both the two-row and the three-row. From the Laredo Altitude up, the 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo takes over with 324 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. Both engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Both models tow up to 6,200 lbs when properly equipped.
The EPA has not yet rated the 2027 Grand Cherokee or Grand Cherokee L, so the figures below are manufacturer estimates. With the V6, the two-row is rated at an estimated 19 city / 26 highway / 22 combined MPG in both rear-wheel drive and 4x4. The Hurricane Turbo returns an estimated 21 city / 27 highway / 23 combined MPG with rear-wheel drive. With 4x4 it returns an estimated 20 city / 25 highway / 22 combined MPG. The three-row Grand Cherokee L Laredo is rated at an estimated 19 city / 26 highway / 21 combined MPG. Both models carry a 23-gallon fuel tank.
| Specification | 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo |
|---|---|---|
| Standard on | Laredo, Laredo X | Laredo Altitude and above |
| Horsepower | 293 hp | 324 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 332 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Estimated MPG, two-row | 19 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined (RWD and 4x4) | 21 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined (RWD); 20 city / 25 hwy / 22 combined (4x4) |
Fuel economy figures shown are manufacturer estimates; the EPA has not yet rated this vehicle. Manufacturer-estimated figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Maximum towing and payload capacity figures are based on properly equipped vehicles and vary by configuration. Do not exceed any weight rating. See your owner's manual and the vehicle's door-jamb label for specific capacities.
Technology and Driver-Assist Features
Screens and displays
For 2027, the Laredo and Laredo X move to a 10.1-inch touchscreen. It replaces the previous 8.4-inch unit. Larger displays are available higher in the lineup, and a wireless charging pad is available.
| Display | Size | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Uconnect touchscreen | 10.1 in | Standard on Laredo and Laredo X |
| Uconnect 5 NAV touchscreen | 12.3 in | Available |
| Digital cluster display | 10.25 in | Instrument panel |
| Head-up display | 10 in | Available |
Standard safety and security
Both models come with the same standard driver-assist suite:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go — maintains a set following distance and can bring the vehicle to a full stop in traffic.
- Active Lane Management — lane departure warning with steering assistance to help keep the vehicle centered.
- Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning and Pedestrian/Cyclist Detection — warns of an impending collision and can apply the brakes.
- ParkView Rear Back Up Camera with ParkSense Rear Park Assist — rear camera and sensors for reversing and parking.
- Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection — monitors blind spots and detects approaching traffic when backing out.
Semiautonomous Active Driving Assist comes standard on any trim equipped with the 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo. It is not available on the Laredo or Laredo X.
Driver-assistance and advanced safety systems are supplemental aids and are not substitutes for safe and attentive driving. Availability, operation, and effectiveness vary by trim and equipment and depend on factors including road, weather, traffic, and vehicle condition. Always keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. See your owner's manual for system limitations and details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people can the 2027 Grand Cherokee L seat?
Up to seven. Second-row captain's chairs are standard, which seats six. An available second-row bench seat brings capacity to seven. The two-row Grand Cherokee seats five.
Is the Grand Cherokee L worth the $2,000 MSRP premium?
It depends entirely on whether you need the third row. The Grand Cherokee L costs $2,000 MSRP more than the equivalent two-row trim. For that you get two more seats and more total cargo volume with everything folded, 84.6 cu ft against 70.8 cu ft. If you never carry more than five people, that $2,000 MSRP difference buys seats you won't use. The two-row keeps far more room free behind the seats you do use.
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Which one has more cargo space?
Both, depending on how you measure. With every seat occupied, the two-row holds 37.7 cu ft behind the second row against 17.2 cu ft behind the Grand Cherokee L's third row. With all rear seats folded, the Grand Cherokee L holds more, 84.6 cu ft against 70.8 cu ft.
Do the Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L tow the same amount?
Yes. Both are rated to tow up to 6,200 lbs when properly equipped. Both also share the same 3.6L V6 and 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo engines and the same eight-speed automatic transmission.
Maximum towing and payload capacity figures are based on properly equipped vehicles and vary by configuration. Do not exceed any weight rating. See your owner's manual and the vehicle's door-jamb label for specific capacities.
Where can I test drive both models near Yucca Valley?
At Joshua Tree Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, 57909 29 Palms Hwy, Yucca Valley, CA 92284. Call (760) 228-1818 to schedule a test drive and compare the two-row and three-row back to back.
Which 2027 Grand Cherokee Should You Take Home?
Choose the two-row Grand Cherokee
If your household fits in five seats. It starts $2,000 MSRP lower at $41,515 MSRP. It holds 37.7 cu ft behind the second row with everyone aboard. And it offers four trims the L doesn't, including the new Laredo Upland and the Trail Rated Trailhawk.
Choose the Grand Cherokee L
If you need six or seven seats. Or if maximum folded-flat cargo volume matters more to you than everyday space behind the second row. You give up nothing in towing, engines, or transmission to get it.
Either way, the capability is the same. Come see both at Joshua Tree CDJR on 29 Palms Highway. Decide with the tape measure and the third row in front of you.
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Disclaimers
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, process and handling fees, which may be subject to change at any time. MSRP excludes taxes, title, license and dealer installed options, accessories, fees and charges. MSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Fuel economy figures shown are manufacturer estimates; the EPA has not yet rated this vehicle. Manufacturer-estimated figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Maximum towing and payload capacity figures are based on properly equipped vehicles and vary by configuration. Do not exceed any weight rating. See your owner's manual and the vehicle's door-jamb label for specific capacities.
Driver-assistance and advanced safety systems are supplemental aids and are not substitutes for safe and attentive driving. Availability, operation, and effectiveness vary by trim and equipment and depend on factors including road, weather, traffic, and vehicle condition. Always keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. See your owner's manual for system limitations and details.