Comparison between the 2021 Mazda CX-9 and the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The 2021 Mazda CX-9 and the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L are two popular 3-row SUVs that offer plenty of room inside and out. Here is how they compare.

2021 Mazda CX-9

2021 Mazda CX-9 starting price: $ 34,160 | Price yours Where View listings near you

Above average: Pointed style; good handling; luxurious interior; standard active safety features.

Below average: Loading space; the third row is strictly for children; not necessarily an all-terrain.

Consensus: The 2021 Mazda CX-9 stands out from the 3-row herd with its engaging handling, sleek design and premium interior, but cargo space and third-row accommodations aren’t the most generous.

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L starting price: $ 39,220 | Price yours Where View listings near you

Above average: Refined interior; excellent security suite; V6 or V8 engines; 7,200 lb towing capacity.

Below average: The fuel economy of the V8; the third row seat is correct; less cargo space than some competitors.

Consensus: The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L stretches the Grand Cherokee to make room for the model’s very first third-row seat. The redesign also brings a new interior loaded with technology and premium finishes, along with corresponding pricing.

CX-9 vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee L: a question of style

Mazda CX-9

The 2021 Mazda CX-9 is the driver’s choice among 3-row SUVs. The chassis offers precise steering, responsive handling and a composed ride. The only engine, a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, can be paired with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), the latter standard on the Signature Top trim. With up to 250 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, acceleration is crisp. The tow rating is a bit limited to 3,500 pounds.

The CX-9 is stylish on the outside and richly appointed on the inside. The third row is narrow, however, and behind it is just 14.4 cubic feet of luggage space, expanding to a relatively modest volume for its size of 71.2 cubic feet with all seats folded down.

Mazda’s standard driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring. The infotainment system has a 10.25 inch screen with Apple CarPlay / Android Auto connectivity and Bluetooth.

Entry-level Sport models have a second row bench and seating for seven, while the Carbon Edition and Signature trims have captain’s seats and seating for six. Touring and Grand Touring models offer a choice of bench or captain’s seats in the second row.

Even the base trim comes with heated seats, three-zone automatic climate control and a power adjustable driver’s seat. Both top trims benefit from a camera and 360-degree navigation, while the Signature features Nappa leather with quilted stitching and rosewood trims.

Jeep Grand Cherokee L

Jeep added third row seats to the Grand Cherokee, creating the new Grand Cherokee L. It is 15.1 inches taller than the regular Grand Cherokee and sits on a longer wheelbase of 7 inches, but it’s still smaller than the regular Grand Cherokee. the Jeep Wagoneer. The premium cabin can accommodate six or seven people with the optional second row bench seat. The second row is spacious, the third is walkable. Cargo space is 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, increasing to 84.6 with all seats folded.

Standard is Chrysler’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with 293 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. A 5.7-liter Hemi V8 producing 357 hp is optional only on the top-of-the-line model and increases towing capacity from 6,200 to 7,200 pounds. The combined EPA fuel economy is 21 mpg for the V6 and 17 mpg for the V8.

The Grand Cherokee L offers three different 4×4 systems. The optional Quadra-Lift air suspension can increase the ride height an additional 4.2 inches (for a maximum ground clearance of 10.2 inches), and an all-terrain package includes an electronic limited-slip differential and plates protection.

Jeep offers the Grand Cherokee L in Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Summit and Summit Reserve trim levels. A 10.25-inch digital dashboard is standard and the center touchscreen has an 8.4-inch or 10.1-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto. Leather is on everything except the base model. Heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and a power tailgate are optional on Laredo and standard elsewhere.

Similarities

Three rows of seats; available AWD; stylish interiors.

Advantages of the 2021 Mazda CX-9

Lower base price; fun to drive; fuel economy.

Advantages of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

Greater towing capacity; off-road capability; ultra-luxurious interior; V8 power available.

Which one is right for me?

The 2021 Mazda CX-9 offers a great mix of premium styling and 3-row utility, but most of all, a fun character to drive.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L combines luxury and off-road credibility with the utility of a 3-row SUV. With optional V8 horsepower, it is well suited for towing heavy trailers.

Ready to buy a Mazda CX-9 or a Jeep Grand Cherokee L? Buy one on sale now near you