The best-selling mid-size SUV is going through a redesign for the next season. So, the FCA can expect a slight sales drop this year. The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee will get the new exterior and interior. The first spy photos show a larger model, which could get the third-row option. Still, the concept is not official and the 2021 YM will probably debut at the NAIAS.
We expect a few things from Grand Cherokee. As said, the three-row version is probable. The company announced it a couple of years ago. However, the FCA will launch a full-size Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer, which will fill that spot. Outside, the mid-size SUV is getting the new look after the redesign. Heavy covers are hiding details on test mules.
There will be changes in the engine room as well. First of all, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee could get the hybrid engine. Also, the carmaker will cut the SRT trim level, but a 6.4-liter Hemi powertrain remains part of the lineup. From now on, all performance models will appear under the Trackhawk badge. The most powerful one remains the 707-hp-rated Hellcat unit.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Redesign
The redesign of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee could lead to the new generation. However, a lot of changes will make the SUV more attractive, especially for younger buyers. The bad thing is that the price is going up. A new set of wheels and front fascia will be the highlights of the redesign. Test mules are on the streets, but the camouflage is hiding details. We will have to wait for a few months more to find out everything about the upcoming Grand Cherokee. The prototype seems to be larger than before and it could affect interior room and gas mileage.
Interior
The new Grand Cherokee will be roomier than before. However, this model was available only with two rows of seats. Besides the upgrades in the infotainment and safety, the third row is the biggest thing fans would like to see on the new version. The extra length will provide enough room. However, we will see if the company is going to make such a move, or we will have to wait for Wagoneer to get a three-row Jeep.
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Specs, Hybrid Rumors
The biggest addition for the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee engine lineup is the possible hybrid drivetrain. The competition is bigger now and there are a few SUVs with advanced technology already in the market. The FCA has some catching up to do and the carmaker needs to start it as soon as possible. In the same segment, Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer are already taking advantage of the hybrid technology, while it is just a matter of moment when will Honda Pilot become official with a similar setup.
A 3.6-liter V6 is the base engine and it could serve as the main power source for the future hybrid unit. With 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a reliable and potent unit under the bonnet. An eight-speed transmission is a power router. Only with a V6 mill, you will have an option to choose between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive.
If you pick a 5.7-liter V8, the four-wheel drive is standard. In this case, the outputs jump to 360 hp and 390 pound-feet and Grand Cherokee could compete with full-size rigs. The cost for extra energy is a worse fuel economy, which drops to 18 mpg combined.
SRT vs Trackhawk
The most potent units in the lineup are 6.4 and 6.2 displacements. The first one is the famous Hemi unit and it was available for the SRT badge previously. However, this model is familiar for the Dodge family and Grand Cherokee was the only vehicle outside this family to use it. Starting next season, all performance-oriented versions will be called Trackhawk.
Currently, the Trackhawk is the meanest SUV in the market. It gets power from a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine and produces 707 hp. It makes the Grand Cherokee the most powerful SUV with internal combustion in the world. A 6.4 V8 is also pretty capable. The ex-SRT model could deliver more than 500 ponies for the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Currently, the engine creates 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft.
When Will The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Be Released?
The new model will be probably unveiled at the NAIAS car show. The main event is now moved from January to June and it is going to host a bunch of debuts. One of them must be the new Grand Cherokee. However, the company announced that the sales will start in the last quarter of the year.
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee price will depend on the level of upgrades. Whatsoever, the starting cost won’t be under $35,000. The SUV offers plenty of trim levels and optional features, so you can choose equipment and engines to build your perfect vehicle. If you are after a 707-hp Trackhawk edition, start saving the money. The top of the class version is going to cost around $80,000.
Spy photos sources: Car and driver, KGP Photography
