Do Jeep Cherokees Have A Third Row
The Jeep Cherokee is a popular SUV known for its off-road abilities and family-friendly design. But many people wonder if the Jeep Cherokee offers a third row of seats for extra passengers.
This is an important question for families and those who need more seating. Let’s look at what the Cherokee provides, compare it with other Jeeps, and discuss what to expect if you need more space.
Jeep Cherokee Seating: What To Expect
The Jeep Cherokee has been on the market for decades. It is a midsize SUV that seats five people in two rows. Third-row seating is not available on any model year of the Jeep Cherokee. This includes both older versions and the latest models.
Here is a quick overview of seating for recent Jeep Cherokee models:
| Model Year | Rows of Seats | Total Seating Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 2014-2023 | 2 | 5 |
| 2002-2013 | 2 | 5 |
| Pre-2002 | 2 | 5 |
No matter which year or trim you look at, the answer is always the same: no third row.
Why Doesn’t The Cherokee Offer A Third Row?
There are a few reasons for this design choice:
- The Cherokee is built as a midsize SUV. Adding a third row would make the cabin cramped and reduce cargo space.
- Jeep wants to keep the Cherokee light and agile for off-road driving. A third row would add weight and make the vehicle less capable on trails.
- Jeep offers other models with third-row seating, so they keep the Cherokee focused on comfort for five passengers.
Many car buyers assume all SUVs have third-row seating, but this is not true. The Cherokee’s main rivals, like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, also have only two rows.
Jeep Models With Third Row Seating
If you need more space, Jeep does offer SUVs with a third row. Here is a look at which Jeep models include this feature:
| Jeep Model | Third Row Available? | Seating Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Cherokee L | Yes | 6 or 7 |
| Wagoneer | Yes | 7 or 8 |
| Grand Wagoneer | Yes | 7 or 8 |
| Cherokee | No | 5 |
| Compass | No | 5 |
The Grand Cherokee L is a newer model with three rows, seating up to seven. The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are larger, luxury SUVs that can seat up to eight.
How The Cherokee Compares To Other Suvs
You may wonder how the Cherokee’s seating stacks up against other midsize SUVs. Here’s a simple comparison:
| Model | Rows of Seats | Max Seats |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee | 2 | 5 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 2 | 5 |
| Honda CR-V | 2 | 5 |
| Nissan Rogue | 2 | 5 |
| Kia Sorento | 3 | 7 |
Most midsize SUVs in the Cherokee’s class do not offer a third row. The Kia Sorento is a rare exception.
What If You Need More Seats?
If you are thinking about the Jeep Cherokee but need to carry more than five people, you have a few options:
- Choose a larger Jeep, like the Grand Cherokee L or Wagoneer.
- Look at other midsize SUVs with three rows, such as the Kia Sorento or Volkswagen Atlas.
- Consider if you really need the third row often. Sometimes, a two-row SUV with more cargo space is a better fit for most drivers.
One non-obvious insight: adding a third row to a midsize SUV can make both rows less comfortable, especially for adults. The third row in smaller SUVs often has less legroom and is best for children or short trips.
Another thing to know: even if you choose a three-row SUV, using all seats means you have much less space for bags or gear. It’s a trade-off between passenger capacity and cargo space.
The Rare Case: Aftermarket Third Row Seats
Some owners ask if they can add a third row to a Cherokee using aftermarket kits. This is not recommended.
Aftermarket seats may not meet safety standards and can cause problems with insurance or vehicle inspections. Factory-designed third rows are safer and more comfortable.
If you see a used Cherokee with a third row, ask the seller for details and check if it was a professional conversion.
Should You Wait For A Future Cherokee With A Third Row?
As of 2024, Jeep has not announced any plans to add a third row to the Cherokee. Jeep is focusing on keeping the Cherokee competitive as a midsize, two-row SUV. If you want a three-row Jeep, the Grand Cherokee L and Wagoneer are your best choices.
If you want to see the latest updates on Jeep models, the official Jeep site is a good resource: Jeep Official Site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Any Jeep Cherokee Have A Third Row?
No, all versions of the Jeep Cherokee are two-row SUVs with seating for up to five people. There has never been a factory model with a third row.
Which Jeep Model Has A Third Row?
The Grand Cherokee L, Wagoneer, and Grand Wagoneer all come with three rows of seats. These models are larger and can seat up to seven or eight passengers.
Can I Add A Third Row To My Jeep Cherokee?
It is not recommended to add a third row to a Cherokee. Aftermarket options are unsafe and may not be legal or comfortable.
Always choose a model designed for three rows if you need the space.
Are There Midsize Suvs With Three Rows?
Yes, but they are less common. The Kia Sorento and Volkswagen Atlas are two midsize SUVs with three-row options. Most midsize SUVs, including the Cherokee, do not offer this feature.
Is The Jeep Cherokee A Good Family Car?
Yes, the Jeep Cherokee is a reliable family SUV for five people. It offers good safety ratings, cargo space, and off-road features. However, if you need to carry more than five, consider a larger Jeep or another three-row SUV.
Choosing the right SUV depends on your seating and cargo needs. The Jeep Cherokee is a solid pick for small families or those who want adventure-ready features.
If you need a third row, Jeep has other options that can fit your lifestyle.
