OK, where did this come from? In case you missed the news, the 2021 Grand Cherokee L will join the current five-passenger Jeep wagon a few months from now. And no, it isn’t a stretched version of the existing model; it’s built on a separate unitized (frameless) platform and displays its own unique grille and other body panels. Second-row captain’s chairs are standard, however they can be swapped for a bench seat for more passenger space. The L comes in Laredo, Limited, Overland and Summit trims, the same as for the five-passenger model. Engines choices include a 290-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 and a 357-horsepower 5.7-liter V-8. Word has it that Jeep will add a hybrid powertrain option for 2022.
The Grand Cherokee L seemed to arrive out of the blue with little or no fanfare. It’s built on a separate platform from the regular-length model, foreshadowing the new look for all GC models.
PHOTO: FCA