Understanding the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee cargo dimensions is essential for anyone considering this luxury SUV for its versatility. While the Grand Cherokee presents a sophisticated exterior, the true measure of its practicality lies in how efficiently it utilizes the space behind the rear seats. This guide breaks down the specific measurements, compares them against competitors, and explains how the available configurations transform the cabin into a functional storage solution.
Overview of the 2017 Model Year
The 2017 model year represented a significant point for the Grand Cherokee, sitting comfortably between a mid-cycle refresh and the introduction of the next-generation platform. During this period, Jeep offered a wide range of trim levels, from the base Laredo to the high-performance Summit and Trackhawk variants. These different trims did not alter the fundamental cargo numbers, but they did highlight the vehicle’s adaptability, proving that the capacity remains consistent whether you are hauling groceries or golf clubs.
Standard Behind the Rear Seats
With the rear bench seat in place, the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee provides a respectable 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space. This measurement is taken from the rear of the seatbacks to the opening of the liftgate, measuring the vertical and horizontal distance available. This capacity positions the Grand Cherokee as a competent daily driver, offering more volume than some compact crossovers while maintaining the comfortable seating posture associated with the brand.
Fold-Down Capabilities and Maximum Volume
Expanding the Cargo Footprint
The true versatility of the 2017 Grand Cherokee reveals itself when the rear seatback is folded. By tipping the 60/40 split bench seat flat, the cargo volume expands dramatically to a maximum of 71.9 cubic feet. This transformation is facilitated by the Easy Fold rear seat system, which allows users to collapse the seatback with minimal effort. The resulting flat load floor is crucial for accommodating long, awkwardly shaped items such as furniture, wide plywood sheets, or multiple bicycles without the obstruction of seat legs.
Cargo Access and Interior Design
Accessing the 2017 Grand Cherokee’s cargo area is straightforward, thanks to the wide-opening liftgate that swings upward. The height of the load opening is reasonable, though taller individuals will appreciate the available power liftgate, which is standard on higher trims and eliminates the need to bend over. The interior design features a low, flat floor transition, minimizing the lip between the cabin and the cargo bay, which simplifies loading heavy objects.
Competitive Analysis in the Midsize Segment
When compared to rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer, the 2 maximum cargo dimensions of the Grand Cherokee hold their own. The Highlander often edges out the Jeep in standard behind-seats capacity, but the Grand Cherokee’s fold-flat capability gives it an edge for maximizing space. The Explorer offers similar total volume, but the Jeep’s design tends to create a more open, less cluttered feel in the rear cargo area, making it easier to manage large items.
Practical Considerations and Limitations
Despite the generous numbers, potential buyers should consider the height restriction of the liftgate. The roofline slopes significantly, which reduces the vertical clearance for tall items. Furthermore, the spare tire, located on the rear hatch, occupies a small portion of the cargo floor space when unfolded. For most users, however, the trade-off for the iconic Jeep design is a minor inconvenience compared to the overall utility of the cabin.
Summary of Key Figures
For quick reference, the primary cargo dimensions of the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee are as follows: with the standard rear seat configuration, the vehicle offers 33.9 cubic feet of space. Upon folding the seatback, the capacity increases to 71.9 cubic feet. These measurements ensure that the Grand Cherokee functions effectively as a luxury hauler, capable of handling the demands of road trips, home improvement projects, and everyday errands with equal confidence.
