2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Configurations: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Perfect SUV
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a name synonymous with adventure and luxury. As one of Jeep’s flagship models, this SUV has consistently made a name for itself by offering a variety of trims that cater to all sorts of drivers. Whether you’re looking for a sporty off-roader or a luxury cruiser, the Grand Cherokee has got a model that fits your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll go through each configuration of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee, highlight its unique features, and give you a rundown on what to expect.
The Basics of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Before diving into each trim, let’s look at some of the fundamental aspects of the Grand Cherokee. The 2021 model year offers 11 different trims, each with unique features and capabilities:
- Laredo E
- Freedom
- Laredo X
- Limited
- 80th Anniversary Edition
- Trailhawk
- Overland
- High Altitude
- Summit
- SRT
- Trackhawk
Each trim has been designed to cater to a specific type of driver, whether you're focused on off-roading, luxury, performance, or a combination of these factors. With each trim, Jeep provides varying powertrains, tech features, and design elements.
Key Things to Consider When Choosing a Trim
Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a Grand Cherokee:
- Budget: Higher trims mean higher prices and more luxury.
- Performance Needs: Some trims focus on off-roading, while others are designed for speed or comfort.
- Technology & Features: Higher trims come with more tech, but do you need all of them?
- Seating & Space: Do you need more cargo space, or are you looking for a sportier experience?
"The 2021 Grand Cherokee is the best all-around SUV. The variety of configurations makes it feel like there’s truly one for everyone" says Alex Collantes, an automotive enthusiast who test-drove multiple trims last year.
Trim Breakdown: Configurations in Detail
Laredo E - The Classic All-Rounder
The Laredo E is the base model of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and it's designed to give you a good balance of affordability and features. This trim starts at around $34,200 and is perfect for those who want a no-frills SUV with all the essentials.
Engine & Performance
- Standard Engine: 3.6L V6
- Horsepower: 293 hp
- Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
Features
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Keyless entry and ignition
Potential Drawback: While the Laredo E is a solid entry-level choice, it lacks some of the more advanced safety and tech features that you find in higher trims.
"For someone looking for a budget-friendly Grand Cherokee without compromising too much on performance or comfort, the Laredo E is an obvious choice," says Alex Collantes.
Freedom - The Patriot's Choice
Designed with a focus on military-inspired style, the Freedom trim adds a unique patriotic flair to the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup. Priced around $36,700, it gives you a sportier look without stepping into the luxury price range.
Engine & Performance
- Standard Engine: 3.6L V6
- Horsepower: 293 hp
- 4x4 Drivetrain (Standard)
Features
- Distinctive "Oscar Mike" badging
- Gloss black exterior accents
- 18-inch Satin Carbon wheels
Potential Drawback: If you're not into the patriotic theme or the aesthetic upgrades, the Freedom trim doesn’t add much to the Grand Cherokee lineup in terms of performance or functionality.
Laredo X - A Step Up in Comfort
The Laredo X takes everything that the Laredo E offers and adds a bit more comfort and convenience, all starting at $37,745. Think of it as a slightly more refined version of the base model.
Engine & Performance
- Standard Engine: 3.6L V6
- Horsepower: 293 hp
- Available 4x4
Features
- 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen
- Power liftgate
- Heated front seats and steering wheel
Potential Drawback: The Laredo X is a great mid-level option, but it still doesn't include some of the advanced safety features that come standard in higher trims, like blind-spot monitoring.
Limited - The All-Purpose Performer
With a price tag around $41,670, the Limited trim is where the Grand Cherokee starts to feel more upscale. This trim gives you additional luxury and comfort without breaking the bank.
Engine & Performance
- Standard Engine: 3.6L V6
- Optional Engine: 5.7L V8 (360 hp)
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,200 lbs with V8
Features
- Leather-trimmed seats
- Power sunroof
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection
Potential Drawback: While the Limited offers more luxury and tech, you start paying for features that you may not necessarily need if you're only looking for a simple SUV.
"The Limited is really where you start to get that luxury feel without going all-in on price. But if you’re on a tight budget, some of these features might be unnecessary," Alex Collantes comments.
80th Anniversary Edition - Heritage and Style
The 80th Anniversary Edition pays homage to Jeep’s storied history. With prices starting at $43,485, this trim builds on the Limited by adding unique design elements and upgraded features.
Engine & Performance
- Standard Engine: 3.6L V6
- Optional Engine: 5.7L V8
Features
- 20-inch wheels
- Leather-trimmed seats with light tungsten stitching
- Exclusive badging and interior accents
Potential Drawback: This trim is more about style than adding new functionality. If you're not interested in the commemorative features, you might prefer another trim that focuses more on performance or luxury.
Trailhawk - The Off-Road Adventurer
If you're looking to take your Grand Cherokee off the beaten path, the Trailhawk is built specifically for off-road enthusiasts. Starting at $46,870, this model is packed with features that make it a true trail machine.
Engine & Performance
- Standard Engine: 3.6L V6
- Optional Engine: 5.7L V8
- Quadra-Drive II 4WD System and Quadra-Lift Air Suspension
Features
- Off-road tires
- Skid plates
- Selec-Terrain traction control
Potential Drawback: While the Trailhawk is excellent for off-roading, it may not be the best choice if you’re mainly driving on city streets or highways. The added off-road features can make it a bit of an overkill for everyday use.
Overland - Balancing Luxury and Capability
Priced at around $48,730, the Overland trim offers a near-perfect balance between off-road capability and luxury. It's equipped with more tech and comfort features than the Trailhawk but still retains that rugged Jeep feel.
Engine & Performance
- Standard Engine: 3.6L V6
- Optional Engine: 5.7L V8
- Quadra-Trac II 4WD System
Features
- Nappa leather seats
- Ventilated front seats
- Hands-free power liftgate
Potential Drawback: The Overland is a fantastic all-around trim, but the price is creeping close to the higher luxury models. For some, it may be worth upgrading to the next trim for even more luxury.
High Altitude - The Style Statement
For those who want their Grand Cherokee to make a statement, the High Altitude trim is all about style and performance, priced at $51,560.
Engine & Performance
- Standard Engine: 3.6L V6
- Optional Engine: 5.7L V8
Features
- 20-inch gloss black aluminum wheels
- Black exterior accents
- Leather-wrapped interior with high-gloss finishes
Potential Drawback: The High Altitude is definitely eye-catching, but some may find that it doesn't justify its price purely based on cosmetic enhancements.
Summit - Peak Luxury
The Summit trim is the top luxury model for the Grand Cherokee, starting at $54,085. It combines the best of technology, comfort, and performance for drivers who want an upscale SUV without compromising on capability.
Engine & Performance
- Standard Engine: 3.6L V6
- Optional Engine: 5.7L V8
- Adaptive Suspension
Features
- Laguna leather seating
- Harmon Kardon 19-speaker audio system
- Advanced safety features like forward-collision warning
Potential Drawback: With all its luxury features, the Summit may not be the best fit for those who want a pure off-roading SUV or are seeking a budget-friendly option.
SRT - The Performance Beast
For drivers looking for sheer performance and power, the SRT is designed to deliver. Starting at $70,255, this trim is all about speed, equipped with a 6.4L V8 engine.
Engine & Performance
- 6.4L V8 Hemi
- Horsepower: 475 hp
- 0-60 mph: 4.3 seconds
Features
- High-performance brakes
- Adaptive sport suspension
- Flat-bottom steering wheel
Potential Drawback: The SRT is powerful, but it’s not for everyone. The V8 engine can be quite thirsty on fuel, and the performance-oriented design may make it less comfortable for everyday driving.
"Driving the SRT is like unleashing a beast. It's powerful, quick, and handles like a sports car—but you gotta be okay with filling up that gas tank pretty often," shares Alex Collantes.
Trackhawk - The Ultimate Powerhouse
The Trackhawk is the highest trim level, starting at a hefty $88,115. It’s an SUV that doubles as a high-performance vehicle, equipped with the monstrous 6.2L supercharged V8 engine.
Engine & Performance
- 6.2L Supercharged V8 Hemi (from the Dodge Hellcat)
- Horsepower: 707 hp
- 0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds
Features
- Brembo high-performance brakes
- High-performance all-wheel-drive system
- Unique Trackhawk design accents
Potential Drawback: The Trackhawk is not for the faint of heart (or wallet). It's a performance-first SUV that will cost you significantly more than any other trim, both at purchase and at the gas pump.
"The Trackhawk is basically a muscle car disguised as an SUV. It’s a thrilling drive, but you’ve gotta be willing to pay for that thrill," adds Alex Collantes.
Final Thoughts - Choosing the Right 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trim
Ultimately, the right trim for you will depend on your needs and budget. If you're looking for affordability and essential features, the Laredo E or Laredo X might be the right fit. For those who want off-roading capabilities, the Trailhawk is a great choice. And if you’re all about luxury and tech, you can't go wrong with the Summit.
For those with a need for speed and power, the SRT and Trackhawk trims offer performance that will leave most SUVs in the dust.
The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee configurations are diverse, ensuring there's a model for every type of driver.
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