All-New 2021 Jeep® Grand Cherokee - Design 08.01.2021: Design: Unparalleled refinement, uncompromising craftsmanship Exterior From the moment Jeep introduced the Grand Cherokee in 1992, it presented the world something it had never seen before and set a new industry benchmark as it quickly became

Design: Unparalleled refinement, uncompromising craftsmanship



Exterior


From the moment Jeep introduced the Grand Cherokee in 1992, it presented the world something it had never seen before and set a new industry benchmark as it quickly became synonymous with upscale design and uncompromised capability. Fast forward decades later, the all-new 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L continues to build on its proud legacy, while raising the bar in luxury and performance.



“The Jeep design team envisioned a modern aesthetic for the all-new 2021 Grand Cherokee L – they worked to sculpt it down and gave it a clean and updated premium appearance tailored for today's customer,” said Mark Allen, head of Jeep exterior design. “The design for the first-ever three-row Grand Cherokee pays respect to its heritage and honours its utilitarian roots. The results reflect its premium characteristics, contemporary style and legendary capability that has defined the Grand Cherokee since its inception.”



The proportion of the all-new Grand Cherokee L was inspired by the original Wagoneer, Jeep’s first full-size luxury SUV. Grand Cherokee L’s lean profile features a longer bonnet and cab, which shifts the vehicle rearward to give a sense of motion with a ready to react response. A forward-tipped grille further enhances the length of the bonnet and gives a respectful nod to Wagoneer’s iconic design. A lowered, tapered roof improves aerodynamic performance and efficiency without sacrificing its cargo spaciousness and utility.



Most notably transformed is the face of the Grand Cherokee L. All-new slim LED headlights are the primary focal point and accentuate the technical character of the vehicle. The signature seven-slot grille has been updated to be wider with larger individual openings and is outlined in elegant trim that underscores its advanced lighting and emphasises the width of the vehicle.




Below the grille, the new front fascia is proportionally larger than previous generations, designed for function while keeping the competitive approach angle for which the Grand Cherokee is known. Its geometric shape conveys purpose while adding a slight formality to the overall front theme. The larger opening with textural elements conceals a long-range radar and other advanced technology features, including active grille shutters, to help improve on-road performance and efficiency.



From the side, a lowered beltline and expansive glass allow for a more spacious cabin and increased visibility. The roofline appears to float courtesy of a new window moulding design that begins at the base of the side mirror and travels continuously to the rear quarter window and to the base of the back light. This trim treatment stands out even more when selecting the Gloss Black roof, which is available for the first time on Overland models and comes as standard on Summit models. A new roof rack design consists of a singular side rail cap to create a seamless appearance. Body cladding and bright work have been kept to a minimum to align with the vehicle’s modern tailored aesthetic.




A widened track (36mm increase) gives the Grand Cherokee L’s stance a quiet confidence. The wheel flares are pulled tautly around the tyres to strengthen the Grand Cherokee L’s stature. The tyres are flush with the body side to showcase signature trapezoidal wheel arches and, for the first time on a Grand Cherokee, 21-inch wheels come standard with the Summit Reserve Package.




Continuing with its modern theme, the rear of the vehicle is tailored, and the lowered beltline contributes to the expansive rear window. Sleek, high-set LEDrear lights are designed to visually distribute the rear proportions and reinforce the technical aspect of the vehicle. A unique character line directly below the rear lights provides a visual break and carries around to the side of the vehicle to unite the rear and body side in a harmonious way. A new rear fascia and LED fog lamps are underscored by accent trim that corresponds with the front and provides visual width to the rear.




New vertical-pillar spoilers added to the tailgate help reduce on-road drag. A rear-view camera with washer has been tucked neatly into the tailgate spoiler, which also features a new LED centre high-mounted stop lamp. Other rear elements, including a standard integrated tow hitch cover and fascia-mounted exhaust tips, provide a finished, custom look. Overland and Summit models come as standard with a hands-free, foot-activated power tailgate.



For the first time, a premium, full suite of LED lighting is standard on all Jeep Grand Cherokee trim levels, which allowed for design flexibility and helped to shape the identity of the vehicle.



Ultra slim headlamps with unique signature lighting set into Gloss Black bezels, along with slim horizontal fog lamps, express the serious nature of the front end and allow the Grand Cherokee L to be instantly recognisable both during the day and at night.



In the rear, ultra slim rear lights with unique lit signatures complete the lighting story. Additional elements include approach-lit door handles and puddle lighting projected from the rear-view mirror, which are standard on the Overland and Summit models.






Interior



When it came to the interior design of 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, the team’s objective was to create one of the most exquisite and technically advanced interiors in the industry. The next-generation interior evolves to create a more refined expression, featuring handcrafted materials with an attention to detail and modern amenities that pair seamlessly with its new lean and tailored exterior.



“The objective for the interior design team was to create a unique statement for 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L. We viewed the overall design process through a wide lens that allowed us to use a new generation of Jeep interiors,” said Chris Benjamin, head of Jeep, Chrysler and advanced interior design. “While the Jeep Grand Cherokee interior has been synonymous with sophistication, our approach to the three-row version was to showcase distinguished details, handcrafted materials and modern amenities that pair seamlessly with its tailored exterior.”



Immediately upon entry, the driver and front passenger will notice how the Grand Cherokee L’s new layout adds dimension and symmetry. The instrument panel has been proportioned and angled to create spaciousness that is celebrated through an expressive contrast of warm authentic materials and sleek modern technologies.



Harmonious surface language is conveyed by a sculpted, horizontal applique that runs the entire length of the front panel. Focus is drawn to a structural metal trim that stretches the length of the panel and sweeps upward to offset new slim HVAC vents. The sleek trim frames the sculpted natural wood accent, which is offered in open-pore Absolute Oak on Summit and open-pore Waxed Walnut on the Summit Reserve Package. The layering of the wood, leather and metal materials emphasises the horizontal theme and surrounds passengers with a visual masterpiece.



The rich mix of materials are contrasted by the sophisticated execution of the centre stack, which has been realigned and is now even more accessible to the driver. A bright, structural element neatly frames the next-generation, 10.1-inch display for the new Uconnect 5 system.




Also new is a 10.25-inch frameless digital gauge cluster with nearly two dozen different menus from which the user can select, including driver-assist technologies such as adaptive cruise control, highway assist, night vision, drowsy driver detection and speed limit traffic signs display (if equipped). To control the digital cluster, the Grand Cherokee L features an all-new multifunction steering wheel with paddle shifters. Summit models come as standard with a leather-wrapped Absolute Oak steering wheel, and the Summit Reserve Package adds Waxed Walnut wood accents.



The console has been reimagined and now boasts an all-new layout featuring a glossy Piano Black finish. The centre console is highlighted by an all-new drive control centre with a backlit, metal rotary shifter that delivers haptic feedback when engaged. To emphasise its authentic Jeep character, the gear lever is flanked by the ride height and Selec-Terrain switches. New streamlined cup holders allow for more space and storage in the front bin, which can hold two wireless devices and features an optional wireless charger that can charge two devices simultaneously.



An all-new Jeep seating architecture has been introduced on the Grand Cherokee L, featuring a length-adjustable cushion for the front row in Overland and Summit models, which is an FCA first. First-row seats with power 16-way adjustable position with memory and lumbar are available on Overland and standard on Summit.



Seat back massage, that includes five customisable profiles with three levels of pressure intensity, is available on Overland and standard on Summit models. Heated seats in the first two rows, with three-level configurable controls for personalised passenger comfort, are standard on Limited models and above. Ventilated front-row seats are available on Limited and standard on Overland and Summit models. Ventilated seats in the second row come standard on the Summit Reserve Package.



In the rear cabin of Summit models, standard captain’s chairs flank a new second-row console that provides generous storage and cup holders. The console was designed similarly to the front console, while sculpted for functionality and uncompromised leg and foot room for third-row occupants. For all models, the rear cabin features soft armrests colour-keyed to the leather seats, additional storage and cup holders, plus a class-leading 12 USB Type A and Type C ports for wireless devices.



A full suite of all-new customisable interior LED lighting with daytime/night-time settings is now standard on all models. True ambient lighting with a five-colour selection, an FCA first, casts an inviting glow along the entire instrument panel, as well as the front and rear doors. This feature is standard on the Overland and Summit models for a personalised sensory experience.



Passenger comfort is elevated in Summit models with four-zone automatic temperature control, which has the capability to select different fan levels and modes for individual passengers in the first and second rows. The system also offers four different temperature settings. For the first time in an FCA vehicle, the second and third-row vents, now wider and slimmer, are placed in the pillars, as opposed to overhead, to better target passenger comfort zones without compromising headroom or visibility.



Grand Cherokee L introduces a new premium package, Summit Reserve, that sets the benchmark for luxury in the full-size SUV segment. Premium hand-wrapped, quilted Palermo leather, ventilated front and second-row seats, memory and massage front seats and choice of a new Tupelo interior color add distinguishable details to the model. Also unique to the Summit Reserve Package is genuine open-pore Waxed Walnut wood and premium, wrapped, suede-like fabric on the A-pillars and headliner.



Available first in the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, FCA is currently the only automotive manufacturer in the world to carry a McIntosh audio sound system. The premium McIntosh audio system is available on Overland and Summit models and comes standard with the Summit Reserve Package. The advanced, high-performance audio system features a 17-channel amplifier with a maximum output of 950 watts and 19 speakers, including a 10-inch subwoofer, to envelope vehicle occupants in high-definition sound.



The shared vision between FCA and McIntosh design teams resulted in a Jeep audio system with the same level of authenticity and design quality found on McIntosh home audio products. The system accentuates the updated and premium feel of the vehicle’s new interior design. Metal accents on Piano Black surfaces, illuminated branding and McIntosh’s signature blue-glowing power meter further exemplify the modern touches of luxury within the cabin’s interior.



Overland and Summit models include the CommandView dual-pane sunroof with a power sunshade (optionally available on Limited). The Laredo model features an available single-pane sunroof.





New levels of dimensionality



Designed to maximise overall passenger comfort, the all-new 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L delivers unsurpassed third-row capacity and increased cargo volume. The vehicle’s 3,091mm wheelbase creates generous interior room and offers passengers class-leading legroom in the second row.




For improved vehicle access, Grand Cherokee L features larger second-row door openings than previous generations. They open 64 degrees with an ingress/egress exterior side step.



Inside, premium seating includes room for six or seven passengers. The second row comes with standard “tip and slide” bucket seats (optional bench), 180mm of fore/aft travel and an available power-folding third row. Second-row bucket seats can be easily moved to create expansive passage to the third row. Child safety seats installed in the second row do not have to be removed to access the third row. Designed with passenger comfort in mind, the spacious third row provides 947mm of head room.



For added driver comfort and convenience, a driver footrest and integrated side-door storage bin for a wireless device come standard on all models. To make passengers more comfortable, the second-row seats recline 18 degrees.



Grand Cherokee L delivers increased rear cargo volume behind the second row (1,328 litres). The third-row seat features a 50/50 split and is easily folded from the rear of the vehicle. For even more utility, both the second and third-row seats fold forward into a flat-load floor. When the second and third-row seats are folded flat, the maximum cargo space is 2,395 litres.



The design of Grand Cherokee L allows increased visibility compared with previous generations, delivering best-in-class side-window visibility for all seating rows. Noticeable improvements were made to address and minimise side and rear-view pillar obscuration’s (visibility improvement of seven degrees). The use of expansive glass allows for a more spacious cabin and also contributes to greater visibility.



The Grand Cherokee L is the first FCA vehicle to feature an electronic remote release in the rear cargo area to quickly and effortlessly fold the second row flat (standard captain’s chairs and optional bench). The feature is standard on Overland and Summit.



A programmable height feature that allows the boot opening to be set at a chosen degree is standard on Limited, Overland and Summit models and available on Laredo. Overland and Summit models come as standard with a hands-free, foot-activated power tailgate.




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