Interior Cargo Space: Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs. WK Models

When shopping for a Jeep Grand Cherokee, interior cargo space often determines how well the vehicle fits your daily life. Whether you’re hauling sports gear, moving furniture, or loading up for a family road trip, the difference between the three-row Grand Cherokee L and the older two-row WK model can make or break your experience. This comparison examines every cubic foot, seating configuration, and practical detail so you can choose the right Jeep for your needs.

Jeep Grand Cherokee L – The Modern Three-Row Powerhouse

Introduced for the 2021 model year, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L marked a major shift in the lineup by adding a third row of seats. Built on a longer wheelbase and with a revised body structure, the L model delivers substantially more interior volume than any previous two-row Grand Cherokee. Its three-row layout is designed to accommodate up to seven passengers, with flexible cargo options that adapt to a wide range of cargo and passenger needs.

Exterior Dimensions and Wheelbase

The Grand Cherokee L rides on a wheelbase of 121.7 inches, an increase of nearly 6 inches compared to the standard two-row version. Overall length is 204.9 inches, width is 77.5 inches (excluding mirrors), and height is 71.5 inches. These dimensions not only improve passenger legroom but also create a deeper cargo bay behind the third row.

Cargo Capacity Figures

Jeep provides official cargo volume measurements for each seating configuration:

  • Behind third row: 17.8 cubic feet
  • Third row folded (second row up): 46.9 cubic feet
  • Second and third rows folded: 84.6 cubic feet

The 17.8 cu ft behind the third row is enough for several large suitcases or a full set of golf clubs. Folding the third row creates a flat load floor with enough space for a medium-sized refrigerator or multiple pieces of luggage. With both rear rows stowed, the Grand Cherokee L becomes a near-van-sized utility vehicle, capable of hauling plywood sheets, furniture, or camping gear for a large family.

Seating and Passenger Space

The Grand Cherokee L features captain’s chairs in the second row on many trims, with a pass-through to the third row. Legroom in the third row is rated at 30.3 inches, which is competitive for the midsize three-row SUV segment. Adults can sit back there for shorter trips, but children and teens will find it more comfortable. The second row offers 39.4 inches of legroom, and the front row tops 40.1 inches. This makes the L a genuine family hauler, not just a two-row SUV with a cramped occasional third row.

Cargo Floor Flexibility

The Grand Cherokee L comes with a power liftgate and a hands-free foot-swipe feature on higher trims. The load floor is low enough to ease loading, and the seats fold nearly flat with a simple one-touch mechanism. Under the cargo floor, there is a small storage bin suitable for valuables or a tire repair kit. The L also offers an optional dual-pane panoramic sunroof that does not significantly intrude into headroom or cargo space.

Jeep Grand Cherokee WK (2005–2010) – The Classic Two-Row Workhorse

The WK generation of the Jeep Grand Cherokee was produced from 2005 to 2010, and it remains a popular used SUV due to its rugged styling, off-road capability, and proven drivetrain. While it lacks a third row, the WK’s two-row layout still provides ample cargo room for everyday tasks, especially for those who don’t need to carry more than five passengers.

Exterior Dimensions and Wheelbase

The WK Grand Cherokee has a wheelbase of 109.5 inches, which is 12.2 inches shorter than the L model. Overall length is 186.6 inches, width is 72.6 inches, and height is 67.8 to 68.6 inches depending on the trim. The shorter wheelbase and overall length make the WK more maneuverable in tight parking lots and off-road trails, a key advantage for those who prioritize agility over interior volume.

Cargo Capacity Figures

The official cargo volumes for the Jeep Grand Cherokee WK are as follows:

  • Behind second row (seats up): 36.3 cubic feet
  • Second row folded: 68.3 cubic feet

The 36.3 cu ft behind the rear seats is generous for a two-row midsize SUV from that era. It will easily swallow a week’s worth of groceries, a stroller, or several duffel bags. Folding the 60/40 split rear seats yields 68.3 cu ft, which is enough for large items like a dining table or a full-sized mountain bike with the front wheel removed. The load floor is relatively flat, though there is a slight step when the seats are folded.

Seating and Passenger Space

The WK seats five passengers comfortably. Front legroom is 40.3 inches, and rear legroom is 36.3 inches. The rear seat is a bench that reclines slightly and offers ample headroom for adults. For a family of four or a couple with gear, the WK’s seating capacity is adequate, but adding a third child or extra adults would require a larger vehicle.

Cargo Floor and Practicality

The WK’s cargo area includes a hidden storage compartment under the floor (on some trims), a grocery bag hook, and a 12-volt power outlet. The liftgate is a standard single-piece design, though power liftgates were available on higher trims. Ground clearance for loading can be an issue: the WK sits higher than the L, making it slightly more difficult to lift heavy items over the bumper. The spare tire is mounted underneath the vehicle, preserving cargo floor space.

Side-by-Side Cargo Comparison

To help visualize the differences, here’s a quick comparison of key cargo and dimensional specs between the Grand Cherokee L and the Grand Cherokee WK (2005-2010):

  • Overall length: L = 204.9 in, WK = 186.6 in
  • Wheelbase: L = 121.7 in, WK = 109.5 in
  • Maximum cargo volume (all seats folded): L = 84.6 cu ft, WK = 68.3 cu ft
  • Cargo volume behind third row: L = 17.8 cu ft (WK has no third row)
  • Seating capacity: L = up to 7, WK = 5
  • Cargo length with seats folded: L approx. 84 in, WK approx. 72 in
  • Load floor height (bumper to ground): L lower, easier loading; WK higher

The Grand Cherokee L offers 16.3 cubic feet more total cargo volume than the WK when all seats are folded. That extra space allows the L to haul 4x8 plywood sheets (with the tailgate closed) or a full-size mattress, while the WK cannot. However, the WK’s 68.3 cu ft is still respectable and competitive with modern two-row midsize SUVs like the Honda Passport or Ford Edge.

Which Model Fits Your Lifestyle?

Choose the Grand Cherokee L if you need:

  • Space for up to seven passengers regularly
  • Maximum cargo capacity of 84.6 cubic feet for large hauls
  • A third row for occasional adult or frequent child use
  • A more modern interior with advanced tech and safety features
  • A longer wheelbase for a smoother highway ride

Choose the Grand Cherokee WK if you prefer:

  • A more compact SUV that is easier to park and maneuver off-road
  • Lower purchase price and lower insurance costs on the used market
  • A proven, simpler powertrain with plenty of aftermarket support
  • Ample cargo space for a family of four or two adults with gear
  • Classic Jeep styling without the complexity of a third row

For a family with two or three children who occasionally need to seat a friend or grandparent, the Grand Cherokee L’s third row is invaluable. For single drivers, couples, or small families who prioritize trail capability and a smaller footprint, the WK remains a solid choice that still offers generous cargo room.

Additional Considerations: Towing, Roof Rails, and Storage

Cargo space isn’t just about volume numbers. Towing capacity affects how much gear you can bring behind the vehicle. The Grand Cherokee L can tow up to 6,200 pounds (when properly equipped with the V8 engine and trailer tow package), while the WK’s maximum towing ranges from 5,000 to 7,200 pounds depending on the engine (the 5.7L HEMI V8 in the WK can pull 7,200 lbs). This makes the WK a better choice for heavier trailers, despite having less interior cargo space.

Both models offer roof rails: the L has standard roof rails with crossbars available, while the WK offered roof rails as an option. A roof-mounted cargo box can significantly supplement interior space for either vehicle. The L’s longer roof provides more room for a larger cargo box, but the WK’s shorter roof still accommodates most standard boxes.

Underfloor storage is another factor. The L has a small bin under the cargo floor, but the WK (especially in later years) includes a larger deep storage compartment that can hold tools or emergency gear. Aftermarket storage solutions are more abundant for the WK due to its longer production run.

Resale Value and Long-Term Utility

The Grand Cherokee L, being newer, will depreciate more over the first few years but holds its value well in the three-row SUV segment. The WK generation has already depreciated heavily, offering a low-cost entry point for buyers who don’t need modern infotainment or the latest safety systems. However, older WK models may have higher maintenance costs and less efficient fuel economy compared to the L’s available eTorque mild hybrid system.

Final Verdict

The Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers a massive leap in interior cargo space and passenger flexibility compared to the WK. With 84.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume and a usable third row, it’s the clear winner for families and anyone who regularly hauls bulky items. The WK, while smaller, remains a capable and practical two-row SUV with up to 68.3 cubic feet of cargo space – plenty for most daily needs and more than many compact crossovers. Your choice ultimately hinges on how many passengers you need to carry and whether you prioritize a larger cargo envelope or a smaller, more nimble vehicle that’s equally at home on the trail and in the city.

For more detailed specifications, check the official Jeep website for the Grand Cherokee L cargo details and historical WK Grand Cherokee specs. Car and Driver’s review of the Grand Cherokee L offers real-world cargo tests, and Edmunds provides a useful comparison of WK model years.