What is new in the Jeep Grand Cherokee WL model?

You slide behind the wheel of the newest Grand Cherokee, and the first thing you notice isn’t the engine or the suspension—it’s the silence. The doors close with a solid thunk instead of a hollow clang. The dashboard looks like it was designed by people who actually care about luxury. This isn’t just a redesign; it’s a complete reinvention.

The fifth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee, codenamed WL, arrived for 2021 and represents the most significant leap forward in the model’s history. After a decade of the WK2 generation, Jeep didn’t just update the Grand Cherokee—they reimagined it from the ground up. The result is a vehicle that finally delivers on the “Grand” part of its name while never forgetting its off-road roots.

TL;DR
The WL-generation Grand Cherokee (2021-present) introduces three major firsts for the nameplate: an available third row (Grand Cherokee L), a plug-in hybrid powertrain (4xe), and a gas-only turbo four-cylinder for 2026 . The platform is stiffer and lighter, with torsional rigidity increased by 13% for better on-road dynamics and off-road durability . The interior finally rivals luxury competitors, with available Palermo leather, waxed walnut wood, and a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system that reviewers call “the finest car audio we’ve ever tested” . Off-road capability remains core, with Quadra-Drive II, air suspension providing 11.3 inches of ground clearance, and an available front sway bar disconnect on the Trailhawk . The 4xe hybrid delivers 375 hp and 637 lb-ft of torque with 26 miles of electric range . For 2026, a new Hurricane turbo four replaces the V6 on most trims, producing 324 hp and 332 lb-ft—more power and torque than the old Pentastar . The V8 is gone, and diesel is gone, marking a definitive shift toward electrification and efficiency .

Key Takeaways:

Three-row availability: For the first time ever, the Grand Cherokee L offers seating for up to seven, competing directly with the Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander
4xe plug-in hybrid: 375 hp, 637 lb-ft, and 26 miles of electric range—more torque than the old Hemi V8
2026 Hurricane engine: New 2.0L turbo four makes 324 hp and 332 lb-ft, best-in-class driving range of 506 miles, and 6,200 lbs towing
Luxury interior: Summit Reserve trims feature Palermo leather, massaging seats, waxed walnut wood, and a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system
Off-road hardware: Quadra-Drive II with rear electronic limited-slip, air suspension up to 11.3 inches, and front sway bar disconnect on Trailhawk
Tech overload: Available front passenger screen, rear-seat monitoring camera, night vision, and hands-free active driving assist
Simplified lineup for 2026: Trims reduced to Laredo, Limited, and Summit, with the Hurricane engine standard on most models

Table of Contents

The WL Generation: A Clean-Sheet Redesign

When Jeep set out to create the fifth-generation Grand Cherokee, they started with a blank slate. The WL platform (short for “WL” generation) is entirely new, sharing only its name with the previous WK2.

What’s Under the Skin

The new architecture is significantly stiffer than before—torsional rigidity increased by 13% and bending stiffness by 18% . That might sound like engineering jargon, but you feel it every time you drive. The chassis provides a solid foundation for the suspension to work against, resulting in better ride quality, sharper handling, and reduced noise and vibration.

The WL is also lighter than its dimensions suggest. Despite being larger overall, Jeep engineers managed to keep curb weights within a percent of the previous generation . That’s impressive given the added content and complexity.

Two Body Styles for the First Time

For 2021, Jeep did something unprecedented: they launched the Grand Cherokee L first, a stretched three-row version, followed by the traditional two-row model for 2022 . This strategy acknowledged that families need three rows, and the previous two-row-only Grand Cherokee was leaving money on the table.

Grand Cherokee L (2021-present):

Length: 204.9 inches (15.1 inches longer than previous two-row)
Wheelbase: 121.7 inches
Seating: Up to 7 passengers
Cargo behind third row: 17.2 cubic feet

Grand Cherokee (2022-present):

Length: 189.8 inches (approximately)
Wheelbase: 116.7 inches (approximately)
Seating: 5 passengers
Cargo behind second row: 37.7 cubic feet

The L’s third row is competitive with class leaders—32.6 inches of legroom with the middle row slid forward . It’s not as spacious as a minivan, but it’s genuinely usable for adults on shorter trips.

A Visual Look at the WL Evolution

To help you understand how the WL compares to the previous generation and the updated 2026 model, here’s a timeline of key changes:

Note: Horsepower drops in 2026 because the V8 is discontinued and the new Hurricane four-cylinder becomes the primary engine, though total output is still competitive.

Powertrain Revolution: What’s Under the Hood

The WL generation marks a seismic shift in what powers the Grand Cherokee. The old engines are gone or transformed, and new ones have arrived.

The Pentastar V6 (2021-2025)

3.6L V6: 293 hp, 260 lb-ft

This familiar engine carries over from the WK2, but it’s been refined for the WL. It’s smooth, proven, and adequate for most duties . The V6 motivates the Grand Cherokee with “more than ample verve” according to MotorTrend, and it’s the engine most buyers will choose .

Towing capacity with the V6 is 6,200 pounds—enough for most boats and small campers .

The Hemi V8 (2021-2024)

5.7L V8: 357 hp, 390 lb-ft

The Hemi was available on the Grand Cherokee L through 2024, but it’s now discontinued . In its final years, it offered 7,200 pounds of towing capacity and that unmistakable V8 rumble. But tightening fuel economy regulations and shifting buyer preferences spelled its demise.

For 2025 and beyond, the V8 is gone from the Grand Cherokee lineup entirely .

The 4xe Plug-In Hybrid (2022-Present)

2.0L Turbo + Electric Motors: 375 hp, 637 lb-ft

The 4xe is the most significant powertrain addition to the Grand Cherokee lineup. It pairs a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with two electric motors and a 17.3 kWh battery pack .

The numbers tell the story:

375 horsepower combined
637 lb-ft of torque—more than the Hemi V8
26 miles of all-electric range (EPA estimate)
56 MPGe combined
6,000 pounds towing capacity

The instant electric torque transforms the driving experience. Off-road, it allows precise crawling without engine noise. In town, you can run errands on pure electricity. The battery charges in 2-3 hours on a Level 2 charger .

For 2023 and beyond, the Trailhawk is only available as a 4xe, cementing the hybrid’s role as the performance off-road choice .

The New Hurricane Turbo Four (2026-Present)

2.0L Hurricane Turbo: 324 hp, 332 lb-ft

For 2026, Jeep introduced a gas-only turbo four-cylinder—a first for the Grand Cherokee . This isn’t just any four-cylinder; it’s the GME T4 EVO with some serious engineering under the hood.

Here’s what makes it special:

Turbulent Jet Ignition (F1 technology)
This system, borrowed from Maserati’s Formula 1 program, uses a small prechamber above each cylinder . A tiny amount of fuel is injected into the prechamber first, where it combusts. The flame then jets into the main cylinder through small holes, igniting the main fuel charge more completely and efficiently .

The result is a more complete burn, better fuel efficiency, and more power. The engine also uses twin-spark ignition (two spark plugs per cylinder) to further optimize combustion .

The numbers:

324 horsepower (31 more than the old V6)
332 lb-ft torque (72 more than the old V6)
506 miles driving range (best in class)
6,200 pounds towing (same as V6)

The Hurricane engine replaces the Pentastar V6 on most trims for 2026, though a V6 remains available on the base Laredo X for traditionalists .

What’s Gone

5.7L Hemi V8 (discontinued after 2024)
3.0L EcoDiesel (discontinued earlier)
6.4L SRT and 6.2L Trackhawk (no WL versions yet confirmed)

The WL generation is cleaner, more efficient, and more technologically advanced—but enthusiasts mourning the V8 have reason to be sad.

Off-Road Capability: Trail Rated Excellence

Jeep’s directive to the WL development team was clear: “Keep it comfy and classy but ensure it’ll go everywhere its ZJ, WJ, and WK predecessors could” . They delivered.

The 4×4 Systems

The WL offers three distinct 4WD systems, each with increasing capability :

Quadra-Trac I

Single-speed active transfer case
Automatic torque distribution
Found on base trims
Perfect for snow and light trails

Quadra-Trac II

Adds 2.72:1 low-range gearing
Selec-Terrain with five modes (Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow, Mud/Sand)
Available on Limited and above

Quadra-Drive II

Everything above plus rear electronic limited-slip differential
Can send up to 100% torque to either rear wheel
Standard on Trailhawk and Summit

Trailhawk Exclusives

The Trailhawk trim remains the off-road king, and for 2023 it became 4xe-only . Features include:

Quadra-Lift air suspension: Up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance (10.9 on earlier models)
Electronic front sway bar disconnect: Press a button and each front wheel can move independently for maximum articulation
Skid plates: Protecting the transfer case, fuel tank, and front suspension
Off-road camera: Low-mounted forward camera shows obstacles directly in front of the tires
All-terrain tires: 18-inch wheels with aggressive rubber
Red tow hooks: Front and rear for recovery
Selec-Speed Control: Off-road cruise control that maintains a set speed as low as 1 mph

One reviewer tackled a trail that would “stymie most of the current crop of SUVs,” and the Grand Cherokee didn’t even break a sweat . The articulation and traction were impressive enough to traverse a frame-twist field with a 24-inch height difference between diagonally opposed wheels .

Numbers That Matter

Specification	Standard WL	WL Trailhawk
Ground Clearance	8.4 inches	11.3 inches
Approach Angle	~20 degrees	30.1 degrees
Departure Angle	~26 degrees	28.4 degrees
Water Fording	24 inches	24 inches
Low Range	Optional	Standard
Rear Locker	No	Standard

The WL’s off-road capability is genuinely class-leading. No other unibody SUV offers this combination of low-range gearing, locking differential, and air suspension.

Interior Revolution: Finally Premium

If there’s one area where the WL absolutely crushes its predecessors, it’s the interior. The old Grand Cherokee was nice enough, but it never felt truly luxurious. The WL changes that completely.

Materials Matter

Jeep’s designers went all-in on premium materials :

Base Laredo: Soft-touch molded surfaces, cut-and-sew trim on dash and armrests
Limited: Capri leather seating
Overland: Nappa leather, open-pore wood accents
Summit Reserve: Palermo leather (perforated, quilted), waxed walnut wood on dash and door panels, suede headliner

The Summit Reserve’s interior has been compared favorably to Bentley—at a fraction of the price . The diamond-stitched leather, real wood, and meticulous attention to detail create an environment that genuinely rivals luxury competitors.

The Tech Onslaught

The WL is packed with technology that wasn’t available on any previous Grand Cherokee :

Infotainment:

Uconnect 5 system (up to 5x faster than previous generation)
8.4-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Over-the-air updates

Displays:

10.25-inch digital instrument cluster (fully customizable)
10-inch head-up display (projects speed and navigation on windshield)
10.25-inch front passenger screen (watch movies, set navigation, control audio)

Audio:

19-speaker McIntosh system with 17-channel amplifier, 950 watts
Reviewers call it “the finest car audio we’ve ever tested”

Family Features:

Rear-seat monitoring camera (see second and third row on main screen)
Amazon Fire TV built-in for rear entertainment
Six USB ports (USB-A and USB-C) across all three rows

Convenience:

Digital rearview mirror (camera provides unobstructed view)
360-degree surround-view camera
Night vision with pedestrian detection
Hands-free power liftgate

Build Quality

The WL feels substantially more solid than its predecessor. Doors close with a “much more refined” sound compared to the hollow clank of the old model . That small detail signals overall improvements in assembly quality and materials.

The Quibbles

Reviewers have noted a few interior shortcomings:

Some lower dash plastics are still hard and cheap-feeling
Glossy black surfaces attract dust and show scratches easily
Infotainment lag occasionally on early models
Third-row access requires manual folding and sliding of second-row seats (on L model)

But overall, the WL interior represents a massive step forward. As one reviewer put it, “Stellantis ranks as the Audi of mainstream vehicle interior design” .

On-Road Dynamics: Glide Ride

The WL’s new platform and suspension deliver a driving experience that finally matches the “Grand” name.

Ride Quality

Jeep promised a “glide ride,” and they largely delivered. The standard steel suspension on 18-inch tires provides excellent ride comfort, absorbing bumps without floatiness .

The optional Quadra-Lift air suspension (standard on Overland, Summit, and Trailhawk) adds another dimension. It offers:

4.2 inches of height adjustability
Adaptive damping that adjusts to road conditions
Load leveling for towing
Entry/exit mode that lowers the vehicle for easier access

MotorTrend noted that the air suspension provides “further improving body motion control when executing left-right maneuvers or transiting dips and rises” .

Handling

The WL’s increased stiffness pays dividends in handling. The new three-link virtual steering axis front suspension and retuned multilink rear setup deliver “remarkably flat poise and minimal tire squeal” even on off-road-oriented tires .

The steering has accurate weighting, and body roll is well-controlled despite the Grand Cherokee’s height and weight. It’s not sporty in the BMW X5 sense, but it’s composed and confidence-inspiring.

Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH)

The WL is significantly quieter than its predecessor. Additional sound deadening, better aerodynamics, and the stiffer structure all contribute to a hushed cabin at highway speeds.

The 4xe is especially quiet in Electric mode, where you can glide along with almost no sound. Even the gas engines are well-isolated, though the four-cylinder gets thrashy under heavy load.

The V6 Experience

The 3.6L Pentastar remains a smooth, willing partner. It’s not fast, but it never feels overwhelmed in normal driving. The 8-speed transmission is well-calibrated, though it can get busy hunting for gears on hills .

Under load, the V6 needs to rev—and it revs willingly, if noisily. Passing maneuvers require planning, and towing near capacity means high RPMs .

The 4xe Experience

The 4xe transforms the Grand Cherokee’s personality. With 637 lb-ft of torque, it feels genuinely quick off the line. The electric motors fill in the turbo four’s low-end lag, creating a seamless surge of power .

In Electric mode, the Grand Cherokee becomes a silent cruiser perfect for around-town driving. The transition between electric and gas power isn’t as smooth as some competitors, but it’s acceptable .

The Hurricane Four (2026)

Early reports suggest the new Hurricane engine is a winner. With 324 hp and 332 lb-ft, it significantly outpowers the V6 it replaces. The torque peak arrives lower in the rev range, making the Grand Cherokee feel more responsive in everyday driving .

The 506-mile range claim is class-leading, though real-world results will vary. Towing remains at 6,200 pounds—impressive for a four-cylinder .

Safety and Driver Assistance

The WL Grand Cherokee is packed with safety technology, much of it standard.

Standard Safety Features (Laredo and above)

Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
Lane keep assist
Forward collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection
Automatic emergency braking
Blind spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
10 airbags (including driver and passenger knee bags)

Available Features

Night vision with pedestrian/animal detection (up to 328 feet)
Hands-free active driving assist (Level 2 semi-autonomous highway driving)
Intersection collision assist
Driver monitoring system (tracks eye movement)
360-degree surround-view camera
Semi-autonomous parallel parking

Safety Ratings

The WL Grand Cherokee has received:

IIHS Top Safety Pick (with specific headlights)
NHTSA 5-star overall rating (on most configurations)

However, the Australian NCAP rating varies: the five-seat V6 received four stars due to seat belt performance in the second row, while the seven-seat L and 4xe received five stars .

The 2026 Refresh: What’s New

For 2026, Jeep gave the WL a mid-cycle update that brings significant changes .

Simplified Trim Lineup

The trim levels have been reduced to just three:

Laredo (base, value-focused)
Limited (mid-grade, best value)
Summit (luxury flagship)

The Trailhawk remains available as a 4xe-only off-road special, and the Grand Cherokee L continues in all trims.

New Hurricane Engine

As detailed above, the 2.0L Hurricane turbo four becomes the standard engine on most trims, replacing the Pentastar V6. The V6 remains available only on the base Laredo X for buyers who prefer the naturally aspirated engine .

Exterior Updates

Revised headlight designs
More refined seven-slot grille
New wheel designs
New exterior colors

Interior Updates

12.3-inch infotainment display now standard (up from 8.4 on base models)
10.25-inch passenger screen available on Summit
Updated upholstery options
Refined trim materials

The V8 is Officially Gone

The 2026 refresh confirms what many suspected: the Hemi V8 is not returning to the Grand Cherokee. The future is the Hurricane four-cylinder and the 4xe plug-in hybrid .

Common Issues and Considerations

No vehicle is perfect, and the WL Grand Cherokee has its share of owner-reported issues.

Uconnect 5 Glitches

Some early WL models experienced infotainment lag, freezing, and Bluetooth dropouts . A class-action lawsuit was filed alleging these issues, though many have been addressed through software updates .

Build Quality Inconsistencies

Reviewers have noted that while the upper dash is premium, lower areas use hard plastics that feel cheap for the price point . Some examples show premature wear on glossy black surfaces.

4xe-Specific Concerns

The 4xe has been subject to recalls, including one for sand contamination in engines (2023-2025 models) and another for battery fire risk . If you’re considering a used 4xe, verify its build date and recall status.

Fuel Economy Reality

The V6’s real-world fuel economy often falls short of the EPA estimates. Towing with the V6 can see consumption climb into the 20+ mpg range . The 4xe’s efficiency depends entirely on charging habits—without regular charging, it’s just a heavy four-cylinder.

Third-Row Space

The Grand Cherokee L’s third row is tighter than competitors like the Ford Explorer—30.3 inches of legroom vs. 32.2 . It’s fine for children, but adults will find it cramped on longer trips.

Which WL Grand Cherokee Should You Buy?

After all the information, here’s how to choose:

Buy a 2021-2025 WL If:

You want a proven V6 with known reliability
You need a V8 (2021-2024 only)
You want maximum value on the used market
You prefer the traditional interior layout

Buy a 2026+ WL If:

You want the latest Hurricane engine with 324 hp
You value the updated tech (12.3-inch standard screen)
You prefer the simplified trim lineup
You want the most modern infotainment

Buy the Grand Cherokee L If:

You need three rows for passengers
You regularly carry more than four people
You want maximum cargo flexibility

Buy the 4xe If:

You have a short commute and can charge at home
You want 637 lb-ft of torque for off-road or towing
You’re willing to accept early-adopter risks
You lease rather than buy (shifting reliability risk)

Buy the Trailhawk If:

You actually go off-road—rocks, mud, serious trails
You want the most capable Grand Cherokee
You value the 4xe’s instant torque for technical terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “WL” stand for?
WL is the internal code for the fifth-generation Grand Cherokee platform. The “L” in Grand Cherokee L simply denotes the long-wheelbase three-row version.

Is the Grand Cherokee L available as a hybrid?
Yes, the Grand Cherokee L is available with the 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain on certain trims .

Does the 2026 Grand Cherokee still offer a V8?
No. The V8 was discontinued after 2024. The 2026 Grand Cherokee is powered by either the new Hurricane turbo four or the 4xe plug-in hybrid .

What’s the towing capacity of the WL Grand Cherokee?
With the V6 or Hurricane four, towing capacity is 6,200 pounds. The 4xe tows 6,000 pounds. The V8 (2021-2024) towed 7,200 pounds .

How much electric range does the 4xe have?
The 4xe offers 26 miles of all-electric range according to EPA estimates. Real-world owners report 25-30 miles in mixed driving .

Is the WL Grand Cherokee reliable?
Early models had some Uconnect glitches and build quality inconsistencies, but overall reliability has been acceptable. The 4xe has faced recalls, so verify any used example’s status .

What’s the difference between Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II?
Quadra-Trac II adds low-range gearing to the base system. Quadra-Drive II adds a rear electronic limited-slip differential that can send 100% of torque to either rear wheel .

Can I get a third row in the Grand Cherokee?
Yes, but only in the Grand Cherokee L. The standard Grand Cherokee is strictly a two-row, five-passenger vehicle .

When did the WL generation come out?
The Grand Cherokee L launched for 2021, followed by the two-row Grand Cherokee for 2022 .

What’s new for 2026?
The 2026 refresh brings a new Hurricane turbo four-cylinder engine (324 hp), a simplified trim lineup (Laredo, Limited, Summit), a standard 12.3-inch screen, and minor exterior styling updates .

The Bottom Line

The WL-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee represents the most comprehensive update in the model’s history. It finally delivers the three-row option that families have wanted for years. It introduces plug-in hybrid technology that makes the Grand Cherokee genuinely efficient for daily driving while enhancing off-road capability. And it elevates the interior to a level that rivals luxury competitors at a fraction of the price.

Yes, there are trade-offs. The V8 is gone, and diesel is gone. The 4xe has faced recalls. The V6 feels underpowered in some situations. But the core mission remains intact: this is a Jeep that can conquer trails, tow boats, haul families, and commute in comfort—all in one package.

The WL generation earns its seven-slot grille.

Which WL Grand Cherokee do you drive—L, 4xe, or gas? Drop your experience in the comments below and help fellow shoppers understand what it’s really like to own one!

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