The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a well-known SUV, praised for its off-road abilities and family comfort. Many people wonder if it comes with 3rd row seating for bigger families or those needing extra passenger space.
As more SUVs offer three rows, this question is important for buyers comparing options. Let’s dig into which Grand Cherokee models provide this feature, how they compare to others, and what buyers should know before choosing.
Jeep Grand Cherokee And 3rd Row Seating
For years, the Jeep Grand Cherokee was a two-row SUV, seating up to five people. However, in recent years, Jeep responded to customer demand for larger family vehicles. In 2021, Jeep introduced the Grand Cherokee L—a new model with standard 3rd row seating. This was a big change for the Grand Cherokee line, making it more competitive with other midsize and full-size SUVs.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Grand Cherokee (2-row): Seats up to 5 passengers.
- Grand Cherokee L (3-row): Seats up to 6 or 7 passengers, depending on the configuration.
If you want a third row in your Jeep Grand Cherokee, you need to look specifically for the Grand Cherokee L model.
Key Differences: Grand Cherokee Vs Grand Cherokee L
It’s easy to confuse the standard Grand Cherokee and the Grand Cherokee L. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | Grand Cherokee | Grand Cherokee L |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 6 or 7 |
| 3rd Row Option | No | Yes (standard) |
| Overall Length | 193.5 in | 204.9 in |
| Cargo Space (behind 3rd row) | N/A | 17.2 cu ft |
The Grand Cherokee L is almost a foot longer than the regular version. This extra space allows for a comfortable 3rd row, not just a small bench.
What To Expect From The 3rd Row
The third row in the Grand Cherokee L is designed for flexibility. Depending on trim, you can get either:
- Bench seat (7 passengers total)
- Captain’s chairs (6 passengers total)
Adults can fit in the third row for shorter trips, but it’s best for children or teenagers on longer drives. Access is simple, thanks to fold-and-slide second row seats.
A common beginner mistake is to assume the third row in all SUVs is cramped. In the Grand Cherokee L, the design offers better legroom than some rivals, making it more useful for families.
3rd Row Comfort And Features
Jeep added features to make the third row more than just an afterthought:
- Rear air vents for better comfort
- USB ports for charging devices
- Cup holders and small storage areas
- Easy-folding seats to expand cargo space
These details matter, especially for families who use all three rows often. Some competitors don’t include these comforts in the back row.
Cargo Space With And Without The 3rd Row
Choosing a 3rd row SUV often means giving up some cargo space. Here’s how the Grand Cherokee L stacks up:
| Configuration | Cargo Space |
|---|---|
| Behind 3rd Row | 17.2 cu ft |
| Behind 2nd Row (folded 3rd) | 46.9 cu ft |
| Behind 1st Row (all rear seats folded) | 84.6 cu ft |
For comparison, this is competitive with other midsize 3-row SUVs, though full-size models like the Chevy Tahoe still offer more.
How The Grand Cherokee L Compares To Rivals
Many shoppers consider the Grand Cherokee L against other popular 3-row SUVs like the Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, and Honda Pilot. Here’s a quick look:
| Model | 3rd Row Standard? | Max Seating | Max Cargo (cu ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Cherokee L | Yes | 7 | 84.6 |
| Ford Explorer | Yes | 7 | 87.8 |
| Toyota Highlander | Yes | 8 | 84.3 |
| Honda Pilot | Yes | 8 | 83.9 |
The Grand Cherokee L holds its own in terms of space and comfort, but some rivals offer slightly more cargo or seating.
Should You Choose The Grand Cherokee L For 3rd Row Seating?
Here are some points to consider if you need a 3rd row:
- Passenger comfort: The Grand Cherokee L’s 3rd row is more comfortable than many competitors in its class.
- Off-road ability: Few 3-row SUVs match Jeep’s reputation for off-roading.
- Interior quality: Recent models have improved materials and technology, making the L feel upscale.
- Price: Starting prices are slightly higher than some rivals, but discounts and incentives are common.
One insight many beginners miss: If you do not need a 3rd row often, the regular Grand Cherokee may offer more cargo and better maneuverability for daily driving.
Things To Watch Out For
- Not all Grand Cherokees have a 3rd row: Only the Grand Cherokee L does.
- 3rd row best for children: While adults can fit, long trips may be uncomfortable.
- Cargo space trade-off: With all seats up, storage is limited. Fold seats for more room.
Another tip: Check trim levels closely. Some features (like power-folding third row or extra USB ports) are only on higher trims.
Where To Learn More
You can find more technical details and full specifications on the official Jeep Grand Cherokee page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The 3rd Row Standard In All Jeep Grand Cherokees?
No, only the Grand Cherokee L model has a 3rd row. The regular Grand Cherokee is a two-row SUV.
How Many People Can Sit In A Grand Cherokee L?
Depending on configuration, the Grand Cherokee L can seat six (with captain’s chairs) or seven (with a bench seat in the second row).
Can Adults Sit Comfortably In The 3rd Row?
Adults can fit in the third row for short trips, but it is best for children or teenagers, especially on long journeys.
How Much Cargo Space Is Left With All Three Rows Up?
With all seats in place, the Grand Cherokee L offers 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row.
Are There Any Jeep Models With More Than Three Rows?
No, Jeep does not offer any model with more than three rows. The Grand Cherokee L is the only Jeep with a third row right now.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a strong choice for buyers wanting Jeep’s capability with the flexibility of a third row. Carefully compare trims and options to get the best fit for your family’s needs.
