Let's dive into the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo, a vehicle that marked a significant step for the Grand Cherokee lineup. For years, the Grand Cherokee had been a stalwart of the mid-size SUV class, offering a blend of off-road capability and on-road comfort. However, it always played in the two-row space. The 'L' changed the game, introducing a third row and expanding the Grand Cherokee's appeal to larger families. The Laredo trim, being the entry-level model, provided a compelling value proposition, packing in a good amount of features at a competitive price point. This article gives you the insights into what made the 2021 Grand Cherokee L Laredo a noteworthy contender in the three-row SUV segment. We'll explore its design, interior, technology, performance, and overall driving experience to help you determine if it’s the right vehicle for your needs.

Exterior Design: Rugged yet Refined

The exterior design of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo strikes a balance between ruggedness and refinement. The classic Jeep DNA is immediately apparent, with the iconic seven-slot grille taking center stage. This design element not only pays homage to Jeep's heritage but also provides a distinctive and recognizable face. The grille is flanked by sleek, modern headlights that integrate seamlessly into the overall design, giving the Laredo a contemporary look. The body lines are clean and muscular, contributing to the vehicle's robust stance. The Laredo trim typically comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, which provide a good balance between style and practicality. These wheels are designed to handle various road conditions, further enhancing the Grand Cherokee L's versatility. The overall silhouette is elongated compared to the standard Grand Cherokee, thanks to the extended wheelbase that accommodates the third row. This added length doesn't detract from the vehicle's proportions; instead, it gives it a more commanding presence on the road. Chrome accents are tastefully applied around the windows and door handles, adding a touch of elegance without being overly flashy. The rear of the vehicle features LED taillights that are both stylish and functional, providing excellent visibility. A roof spoiler adds a sporty touch, while the overall design remains clean and uncluttered. The Laredo's exterior is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. It's a design that appeals to those who appreciate a vehicle that looks equally at home in the city and on the trails. It successfully blends Jeep's traditional ruggedness with modern design elements, creating a vehicle that is both capable and stylish.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo, you'll find an interior that prioritizes comfort and technology. Even as the entry-level trim, the Laredo offers a well-appointed cabin with quality materials and a thoughtful layout. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a pleasant experience. Cloth upholstery is standard, but it's a durable and attractive material that holds up well to daily wear and tear. The driver's seat is typically power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position with ease. The second-row seats offer ample legroom and headroom, ensuring that passengers in the back are comfortable, even on longer journeys. The addition of the third row is a major selling point for the Grand Cherokee L, providing seating for up to seven passengers. While the third row is best suited for children or smaller adults, it adds valuable flexibility for families who need the extra seating capacity. In terms of technology, the Laredo comes standard with an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This system is user-friendly and responsive, offering features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone. Bluetooth connectivity is also standard, enabling hands-free calling and audio streaming. A six-speaker audio system provides decent sound quality, and there are plenty of USB ports throughout the cabin to keep your devices charged. Safety features include a rearview camera, which is essential for maneuvering the large SUV in tight spaces. Overall, the interior of the 2021 Grand Cherokee L Laredo is a comfortable and well-equipped space that makes it a great place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip.

Performance and Driving Experience

When it comes to performance and driving experience, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo offers a balanced and capable ride. The standard engine is a 3.6-liter V6, which delivers ample power for most driving situations. This engine produces around 290 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque, providing strong acceleration and confident highway cruising. The V6 is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which shifts smoothly and efficiently. The transmission helps to optimize fuel economy while also providing quick and responsive gear changes when you need to accelerate. The Grand Cherokee L Laredo comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but four-wheel drive is available as an option. The four-wheel-drive system enhances the vehicle's off-road capabilities, making it suitable for tackling various terrains. Even in its standard rear-wheel-drive configuration, the Grand Cherokee L Laredo handles well on paved roads. The steering is precise and responsive, and the suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. The ride quality is comfortable, making it a pleasant vehicle for long drives. One of the standout features of the Grand Cherokee L is its quiet cabin. Road noise and wind noise are well-suppressed, creating a serene and relaxing environment for both the driver and passengers. The vehicle feels stable and planted on the road, even at higher speeds. The brakes are strong and provide confident stopping power. Overall, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo offers a well-rounded driving experience. It's powerful enough for everyday driving, comfortable for long trips, and capable enough to handle light off-roading. The combination of a strong V6 engine, smooth transmission, and comfortable ride quality makes it a great choice for families and individuals alike.

Key Features of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo comes equipped with a variety of features that enhance its value and appeal. Here's a breakdown of some of the key features you can expect to find:

• Engine: 3.6-liter V6 engine producing approximately 290 horsepower.
• Transmission: Eight-speed automatic transmission.
• Infotainment System: 8.4-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
• Seating: Three-row seating with capacity for up to seven passengers.
• Wheels: 18-inch alloy wheels.
• Safety Features: Rearview camera, stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags.
• Comfort: Cloth upholstery, power-adjustable driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
• Other Features: Keyless entry, push-button start, and LED headlights.

These features combine to make the 2021 Grand Cherokee L Laredo a well-equipped and versatile SUV that offers a great value proposition in the three-row segment.

Potential drawbacks

While the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo has a lot to offer, it's important to consider some potential drawbacks before making a purchase. One of the main criticisms of the Grand Cherokee L is its fuel economy. The V6 engine, while powerful, can be thirsty, especially in city driving. Another potential drawback is the limited space in the third row. While the third row is a welcome addition, it's not as spacious as some of its competitors, making it best suited for children or smaller adults. Cargo space behind the third row is also limited, so if you frequently travel with a full load of passengers and luggage, you may need to consider a roof rack or cargo carrier. Finally, while the Laredo trim is well-equipped, it lacks some of the more luxurious features found on higher trims, such as leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems. If these features are important to you, you may need to upgrade to a higher trim level. Despite these potential drawbacks, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo remains a compelling option in the three-row SUV segment, offering a good balance of features, performance, and value.

Is the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo Right for You?

Deciding if the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo is the right vehicle for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for a three-row SUV that offers a good balance of features, performance, and value, the Laredo is definitely worth considering. It's a great choice for families who need the extra seating capacity and appreciate a comfortable and well-equipped interior. The V6 engine provides ample power for most driving situations, and the available four-wheel-drive system enhances its off-road capabilities. However, if you prioritize fuel economy or need a lot of space in the third row and cargo area, you may want to explore other options. Additionally, if you're looking for a more luxurious vehicle with advanced features, you may need to upgrade to a higher trim level. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it fits your lifestyle. Consider your daily driving needs, passenger requirements, and budget to make an informed decision. If you value a combination of capability, comfort, and affordability, the Grand Cherokee L Laredo is definitely a contender worth considering.