2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. Grand Cherokee L: Which Size Fits Your Family?
You’re staring at a driveway that fits two cars perfectly, but your family now needs seats for seven. Or maybe your daily routine involves carpooling three kids, but you secretly dream of tackling mountain trails on weekends. The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes in two flavors—two-row and three-row L—and choosing between them is about more than just counting seats.
The Grand Cherokee has always been the sweet spot for buyers who want off-road capability without sacrificing on-road comfort. For 2024, Jeep offers two distinct versions: the standard two-row Grand Cherokee and the stretched three-row Grand Cherokee L. They share engines, transmissions, and that unmistakable Jeep styling, but the L adds 11.4 inches of length, a third row of seats, and family-focused features you can’t get in the two-row model . The question is: which one actually fits your life?
TL;DR
The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L share the same engine options—a 293-hp V6 standard or an optional 357-hp V8 in higher trims—and both tow 6,200 pounds with the V6 (7,200 with the V8) . The L is 11.4 inches longer with a stretched wheelbase, adding a third row that seats 6-7 passengers but reduces cargo space behind that row to just 17.2 cubic feet . The two-row model seats five with 37.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 70.8 cubic feet max . The L offers family-exclusive features like a rear-seat monitoring camera (watch kids on the touchscreen) and six USB ports (two per row) . Fuel economy favors the two-row by about 1-2 mpg, with the V6 two-row getting 22 combined vs. 21 for the L . The L starts at $41,830, about $2,000 more than the two-row . Choose the two-row for better cargo space, fuel economy, and maneuverability; choose the L if you regularly need to carry more than five people.
Key Takeaways:
- Seating capacity: Two-row seats 5; L seats 6-7 with a usable third row for kids
- Cargo space: Two-row offers 37.7 cu ft behind second row; L offers 17.2 behind third, 46.9 behind second, 84.6 max
- Family features: L exclusive includes rear-seat monitoring camera, 6 USB ports, available power-folding third row
- Dimensions: L is 204.9 inches long (11.4 inches longer) with 121.7-inch wheelbase vs. 193.5 inches and 116.7 inches for two-row
- Fuel economy: Two-row V6 gets 22 combined mpg; L V6 gets 21 combined; V8 drops to 17 combined
- Price difference: L starts at $41,830 vs. approximately $39,990 for two-row
- Off-road capability: Both offer Quadra-Trac II with low range and air suspension on higher trims; approach/departure angles slightly different due to length
The Size Story: Numbers That Matter
Let’s start with the obvious: the Grand Cherokee L is bigger. But “bigger” means different things depending on whether you’re parking in a city garage or loading kids for a road trip.
Exterior Dimensions Compared
| Measurement | Two-Row Grand Cherokee | Grand Cherokee L |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 193.5 inches | 204.9 inches |
| Wheelbase | 116.7 inches | 121.7 inches |
| Height | 70.8 inches | 71.5 inches |
| Width | 77.5 inches | 77.9 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 8.4 inches | 8.5 inches |
*Data sources: *
That extra 11.4 inches in the L’s length is entirely dedicated to passenger and cargo space. The wheelbase stretch of 5 inches improves highway stability and gives the third row actual legroom—30.3 inches, which is tight for adults but perfectly fine for kids .
What the Extra Length Means in Real Life
Parking the L requires more attention. The turning circle is slightly larger, and you’ll notice the extra length in tight garages or crowded lots. But on the highway, that longer wheelbase pays dividends in ride quality. The L tracks straighter and feels more planted at speed.
If you live in a city with narrow streets and compact parking, the two-row model is the smarter choice. If you’re in the suburbs with a driveway and plenty of space, the L’s extra length is a non-issue.
Seating and Interior: The Family-Friendly Factor
This is where the two vehicles diverge most dramatically.
Two-Row Grand Cherokee: Spacious for Five
The standard Grand Cherokee seats five adults comfortably. The numbers tell the story:
- Front legroom: 41.3 inches
- Rear legroom: 38.2 inches
- Rear headroom: 39.4 inches
- Shoulder room: 59.2 inches front, 58.0 inches rear
That rear legroom is genuinely generous—adults can sit behind adults without complaining. The cargo area behind the second row offers 37.7 cubic feet, enough for a week’s worth of luggage for a family of four . Fold the second row down and you get 70.8 cubic feet, which will handle furniture runs, camping gear, or just about anything you’d reasonably haul .
Grand Cherokee L: Three Rows, Compromises
The L adds a third row, but it comes with trade-offs. With all seats up, you get 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row—enough for groceries or a few carry-on bags, but not much else . Fold the third row and cargo expands to 46.9 cubic feet, more than the Telluride and Palisade in this configuration . With both rear rows folded, you get a generous 84.6 cubic feet .
Third-row legroom: 30.3 inches. That’s the key number. It’s fine for kids, but adults will find it cramped on longer trips . The second row, however, is genuinely spacious with 39.4 inches of legroom, making it adult-friendly .
Seating Configurations
The L offers flexibility the two-row can’t match:
- Second-row captain’s chairs (six-passenger configuration) with console
- Second-row bench seat (seven-passenger configuration)
- Available power-folding third row
The two-row is simpler: a 60/40 split bench seat in the second row.
Family-Exclusive Features
Jeep loaded the L with features specifically for families, and you can’t get these in the two-row model :
- Rear-seat monitoring camera: Cameras aimed at the second and third rows let you check on kids through the Uconnect touchscreen. No more turning around on the highway.
- Six USB ports: Two in each row (one USB-A, one USB-C) so every passenger can charge devices.
- Available quad-zone automatic climate control: Rear passengers can set their own temperature.
These features make the L genuinely family-friendly in ways the two-row can’t match.
A Visual Look at Space Comparison
To help you visualize how these two SUVs compare for passenger and cargo space, here’s a breakdown:
Powertrain and Performance: More Alike Than Different
Under the hood, these two are nearly identical. Both offer the same engines, transmissions, and available 4WD systems.
Engine Options
Standard: 3.6L Pentastar V6
- Horsepower: 293 hp @ 6,400 rpm
- Torque: 257 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
- Fuel economy (2-row): 19 city / 26 highway / 22 combined
- Fuel economy (L): 19 city / 26 highway / 21 combined
The V6 is the smart choice for most buyers. It’s smooth, proven, and delivers adequate power for daily driving. The L’s slightly lower combined mpg (21 vs. 22) reflects its extra weight—about 300-400 pounds more than the two-row .
Optional: 5.7L Hemi V8
- Horsepower: 357 hp @ 5,150 rpm
- Torque: 390 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm
- Fuel economy (L): 15 city / 22 highway / 17 combined (estimated)
- Availability: Overland and Summit trims only
The V8 is the enthusiast’s choice. That Hemi rumble never gets old, and the extra torque makes towing and passing effortless. But the fuel penalty is real—KBB estimates monthly fuel costs are about $91 higher than the V6 .
Towing Capacity
| Configuration | Max Towing |
|---|---|
| Two-row V6 | 6,200 lbs |
| Two-row V8 | 7,200 lbs |
| L V6 | 6,200 lbs |
| L V8 | 7,200 lbs |
Both vehicles share the same towing ratings. If you need to pull a boat or camper, the V8 in either body style delivers 7,200 pounds of capability.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Both use the excellent 8-speed automatic transmission from ZF. It’s smooth, responsive, and well-matched to both engines.
Four-wheel drive systems are identical across both models:
- Quadra-Trac I: Single-speed transfer case, automatic torque distribution. Available on lower trims.
- Quadra-Trac II: Adds low-range gearing (2.72:1) for serious off-road climbing. Standard on Overland and Summit.
- Quadra-Drive II: Everything above plus a rear electronic limited-slip differential. Optional on Trailhawk (which is only available as a 4xe hybrid).
Off-Road Capability
Despite the L’s longer wheelbase, Jeep engineers preserved impressive off-road capability. The approach and departure angles are slightly different due to the length:
| Measurement | Two-Row | Grand Cherokee L |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | ~20.5 degrees | ~20.6 degrees |
| Departure Angle | ~26.6 degrees | ~21.5 degrees |
The L’s longer rear overhang reduces departure angle slightly, meaning you have to be more careful on steep descents. But with the available air suspension (raising ground clearance to over 10 inches) and skid plates, the L remains one of the most capable three-row SUVs off-road.
Trim Levels and Pricing
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Pricing
The L starts at $41,830 for a base Laredo and climbs to $70,835 for a loaded Summit Reserve . KBB Fair Purchase Prices suggest you can expect to pay $38,219 to $64,958 depending on trim—about $3,600 to $5,900 below MSRP .
L trim levels:
- Laredo: $41,830
- Laredo X: $42,330 (adds heated seats, power liftgate)
- Limited: $46,435 (leatherette, 10.1-inch screen)
- Overland: $64,790 (Quadra-Trac II, Nappa leather, air suspension)
- Summit: $66,355 (premium leather, upgraded audio)
- Summit Reserve: $70,835 (Palermo leather, McIntosh audio, massaging seats)
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee (Two-Row) Pricing
The two-row model starts at approximately $39,990 for a base Laredo, climbing to about $64,460 for a Summit trim . The Summit Reserve pushes past $67,000.
Both models offer similar trim progression, though the two-row is also available as a 4xe plug-in hybrid with 375 hp and 26 miles of electric range. The L does not offer the 4xe for 2024.
Fuel Economy Comparison
The weight difference between the two models shows up at the pump:
| Model/Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two-row V6 (RWD) | 19 | 26 | 22 |
| Two-row V6 (4WD) | 18 | 25 | 21 |
| L V6 (RWD) | 19 | 26 | 21 |
| L V6 (4WD) | 18 | 25 | 20 |
| L V8 (4WD) | 15 | 22 | 17 |
*Data sources: *
The V6 in either body style delivers respectable efficiency for a heavy SUV. The V8 is thirsty but worth it for those who value power.
Which One Fits Your Family?
After all the specs and numbers, here’s the honest truth about which 2024 Grand Cherokee you should buy.
Buy the Two-Row Grand Cherokee If:
- You rarely carry more than four people. The two-row seats five comfortably, and the rear seat is genuinely spacious.
- Cargo space matters more than passenger count. With 37.7 cubic feet behind the second row, you can haul more gear than the L with its third row up.
- You park in tight spaces. The two-row is 11 inches shorter and easier to maneuver.
- You want better fuel economy. The 1-2 mpg advantage adds up over years of ownership.
- You’re considering the 4xe hybrid. The plug-in hybrid is only available on the two-row model for 2024.
Buy the Grand Cherokee L If:
- You regularly need to carry 6-7 people. That third row transforms the L from a family SUV into a genuine people-mover.
- You have kids in car seats. The rear-seat monitoring camera is a game-changer for checking on little ones without turning around.
- You take family road trips. The extra USB ports and available quad-zone climate control keep everyone happy.
- You need maximum cargo flexibility. With the third row folded, you get 46.9 cubic feet—more than the two-row’s maximum with seats up.
- You want the V8. The L offers the Hemi on higher trims; the two-row’s V8 availability is more limited.
The Honest Middle Ground
For most families with 2-3 kids, the two-row Grand Cherokee is plenty. The rear seat is spacious enough for three across, and the cargo area swallows strollers, sports gear, and groceries with ease.
But if you’re the designated carpool driver, if you have more than three kids, or if grandparents frequently ride along, the L’s third row transforms the vehicle from “enough” to “exactly right.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How much longer is the Grand Cherokee L than the standard Grand Cherokee?
The Grand Cherokee L is 204.9 inches long, which is 11.4 inches longer than the standard model’s 193.5 inches .
Does the Grand Cherokee L have more cargo space?
It depends on how you measure. With all seats up, the two-row has more cargo space (37.7 vs. 17.2 cubic feet). With the third row folded, the L has more (46.9 vs. 37.7). With all seats folded, the L wins 84.6 vs. 70.8 cubic feet .
Can adults sit in the third row of the Grand Cherokee L?
Adults will find the 30.3 inches of legroom tight on longer trips. It’s best for kids and teenagers .
Is the Grand Cherokee L available as a hybrid?
For 2024, the 4xe plug-in hybrid is only available on the two-row Grand Cherokee. The L offers the V6 and V8 but not the hybrid .
Which has better fuel economy?
The two-row Grand Cherokee with V6 gets 22 combined mpg vs. 21 for the L with V6. The V8 in either body style drops to about 17 combined .
What family features does the L have that the two-row doesn’t?
The L offers an exclusive rear-seat monitoring camera (watch kids on the touchscreen), six USB ports (two per row), and available power-folding third-row seats .
How much more does the Grand Cherokee L cost?
The L starts at $41,830, about $2,000 more than the two-row’s $39,990 starting price .
Can both models go off-road?
Yes. Both offer Quadra-Trac II with low-range gearing and available air suspension. The L’s longer wheelbase slightly reduces departure angle, but it remains highly capable .
Which is better for towing?
Both models tow 6,200 pounds with the V6 and 7,200 pounds with the V8. There’s no difference in capability .
Does the Grand Cherokee L handle differently than the two-row?
The L’s longer wheelbase improves highway stability and ride comfort. The two-row feels more maneuverable in tight spaces. Both drive like proper Jeeps .
The Bottom Line
The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L share a soul but serve different masters. The two-row model is the classic Grand Cherokee formula—capable, comfortable, and spacious enough for most families. It’s easier to park, more fuel-efficient, and available as a plug-in hybrid.
The L is for families who need that third row. It adds 11 inches of length, two extra seats, and family-focused features that genuinely improve life with kids. Yes, you sacrifice some cargo space with all seats up and a couple MPG at the pump. But for the right buyer—the one who needs to haul seven people or wants to monitor rear-seat passengers on road trips—the L is worth every penny of its $2,000 premium.
Test drive both. Park both. Imagine your daily routine with each. The right choice will become obvious.
Which Grand Cherokee fits your family—the two-row or the L? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and help other families make the right call!
References:
- AutoTrader.ca – 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs Grand Cherokee L Comparison
- CarSoup – 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Review
- Autoblog – 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited Specs
- Kelley Blue Book – 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Review
- Jeep Official – 2024 Grand Cherokee L 3-Row SUV
- CarBuzz – 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Specs
- Edmunds – 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Specs
