Which SUV Has a Higher Towing Capacity, the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L or the 2027 Kia Telluride?
The 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L achieves a higher maximum towing capacity of up to 6,200 lbs when properly equipped, compared with the 2027 Kia Telluride, which maxes out at 5,000 lbs on standard gasoline configurations and 4,500 lbs on hybrid models. Whether outfitted with the standard 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine or the available 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo engine, the three-row Grand Cherokee L offers different trailering limits across its lineup.
To reach the maximum 6,200 lbs tow rating on the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, buyers equip the available Trailer Tow Prep Group or factory hitch package. This setup adds heavy-duty engine cooling, a class IV receiver hitch, a 7-pin and 4-pin wiring harness, and integrated trailer sway damping via the electronic stability control system. By maintaining a high 6,200 lbs rating across both standard and turbocharged powertrains, Jeep ensures that choosing an entry trim level does not force you to compromise on pulling power. In practical terms, that extra 1,200-pound advantage over the Kia Telluride opens up options for heavier dual-axle ski boats, larger travel trailers, and fully loaded utility trailers.
The 2027 Kia Telluride relies on a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine or an available turbo-hybrid powertrain. Gas-powered Telluride models are rated for up to 5,000 lbs of towing with trailer brakes ( 1,653 lbs without trailer brakes) and a maximum tongue weight of 500 lbs. The Telluride Hybrid drops to a maximum rating of 4,500 lbs. Drivers hauling recreational equipment around Lake County will find that the Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers a wider safety margin when loaded with passengers and cargo, preventing the vehicle from approaching its gross combined weight rating during highway acceleration or steep climbs.
When setting up your SUV for weekend trailering, proper vehicle selection makes all the difference in towing stability and braking confidence. If you want to experience how the Grand Cherokee L handles on the road or discuss tow package options, get directions to our Libertyville showroom at 1000 E Park Ave, Libertyville, IL 60048. You can also contact our sales team at (847) 362-2683 to speak with a representative about matching the right hitch accessories and trim options to your towing requirements.
Table of Contents
- What Engine Powers the Standard 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs the Kia Telluride Powertrains?
- How Do Seating Capacity, Third-Row Legroom, and Interior Space Compare?
- What Is the Total Maximum Cargo Capacity for Each SUV With Rear Seats Folded?
- What Off-Road Features Differentiate the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Which Trim Is Best for Trails?
- Does Towing Heavy Loads Significantly Lower Fuel Efficiency on Three-Row SUVs?
- Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Kia Telluride
- Test Drive the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
What Engine Powers the Standard 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs the Kia Telluride Powertrains?
The standard 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Laredo and Laredo X trims are powered by a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine producing 290 hp and 257 lb-ft of torque, mated to a TorqueFlite® 8-speed automatic transmission. Stepping up to trims like the Laredo Altitude, Limited, Limited Reserve 4x4, Overland 4x4, Summit 4x4, or Summit Obsidian 4x4 introduces a 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo engine generating 324 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque.
This two-engine strategy gives Jeep buyers a distinct performance spectrum. The standard 3.6L Pentastar V6 delivers reliable, naturally aspirated power with linear throttle response suited for everyday commuting and highway cruising. For drivers seeking greater low-end responsiveness, the 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo provides a substantial performance bump, delivering its 332 lb-ft of peak torque low in the RPM band. This high torque output gives the turbocharged Grand Cherokee L rapid acceleration from a stop and strong mid-range passing power when merging onto busy expressways.
The 2027 Kia Telluride shifts its powertrain strategy by offering a standard 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine rated at 274 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, alongside an available turbo-hybrid engine producing 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. While the Kia Telluride Hybrid delivers solid output, the gas-powered Telluride falls behind the turbocharged Grand Cherokee L by 50 horsepower and 21 lb-ft of torque. Furthermore, the Grand Cherokee L utilizes longitudinal engine architecture paired with rear-wheel-drive or true four-wheel-drive systems, contrasting with the Telluride's front-wheel-drive-based platform.
For buyers comparing midsize three-row SUVs, examining engine displacement and drivetrain layout reveals how each vehicle handles heavy loads and steep gradients. To see how Jeep engineered this platform against competitors, read our detailed Grand Cherokee vs Ascent comparison. When you are ready to evaluate these powertrains in person, you can explore our new Jeep Grand Cherokee inventory online to see which engine option fits your driving habits.
Engine & Performance
Powertrain specs by trim
| Feature | Laredo | Laredo 4x4 | Laredo Altitude | Laredo Altitude 4x4 | Laredo X | Laredo X 4x4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.6L | 3.6L | 2L | 2L | 3.6L | 3.6L |
| Horsepower | 290 hp | 290 hp | 324 hp | 324 hp | 290 hp | 290 hp |
| Torque | 257 lb-ft | 257 lb-ft | 332 lb-ft | 332 lb-ft | 257 lb-ft | 257 lb-ft |
| Transmission | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | Four-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | Four-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | Four-wheel drive |
Engine & Performance (continued)
| Feature | Limited | Limited 4x4 | Limited Reserve 4x4 | Overland 4x4 | Summit 4x4 | Summit Obsidian 4x4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2L | 2L | 2L | 2L | 2L | 2L |
| Horsepower | 324 hp | 324 hp | 324 hp | 324 hp | 324 hp | 324 hp |
| Torque | 332 lb-ft | 332 lb-ft | 332 lb-ft | 332 lb-ft | 332 lb-ft | 332 lb-ft |
| Transmission | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® | TorqueFlite® |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | Four-wheel drive | Four-wheel drive | Four-wheel drive | Four-wheel drive | Four-wheel drive |
How Do Seating Capacity, Third-Row Legroom, and Interior Space Compare?
The 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L comes standard with six-passenger seating featuring second-row captain's chairs, with an available second-row 60/40 bench seat expanding total capacity to seven passengers. The 2027 Kia Telluride seats up to eight passengers when equipped with its standard second-row bench seat, or seven passengers when fitted with optional captain's chairs.
Interior passenger space is a key consideration for growing families. Up front, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L provides 41.3 inches of legroom, giving front-seat occupants an open and airy cabin experience. In the second row, both vehicles offer spacious accommodations with slide and recline functions. For the third row, the Kia Telluride offers 31.4 inches of legroom compared to 30.3 inches in the Grand Cherokee L. While the Telluride holds a 1.1-inch advantage in third-row legroom, the Grand Cherokee L compensates with superior second-row luxury features, including available massaging second-row seats and standard independent rear climate controls on upper trims.
When evaluating cabin technology and material execution, the Grand Cherokee L leans heavily into premium design. Upper trims feature available Palermo leather upholstery, real wood trim, an interactive front passenger display screen, and a 19-speaker McIntosh® audio system. The Kia Telluride offers a high-tech dual-screen dashboard layout and available heated and ventilated second-row seats, but lacks the executive-level seating features and front-passenger interactive displays found in top-tier Jeep models.
When local buyers inspect these SUVs on our showroom floor, they frequently test the third-row entry sequence to see how easily children can climb in and out with child seats installed. If you are researching midsize utility options across different model years or price bands, you can view our pre-owned Jeep inventory to compare cabin layouts. For a broader look at Jeep capabilities, take a look at our Jeep Gladiator comparison guide to see how Jeep designs interiors across its lineup.
Dimensions & Capacity
Capacity and dimensions by trim
| Feature | Laredo | Laredo 4x4 | Laredo Altitude | Laredo Altitude 4x4 | Laredo X | Laredo X 4x4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Cargo | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 4,618 lbs | 4,746 lbs | 4,524 lbs | 4,658 lbs | 4,618 lbs | 4,746 lbs |
| Towing | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs |
| Payload | 1,380 lbs | 1,380 lbs | 1,976 lbs | 1,842 lbs | 1,380 lbs | 1,380 lbs |
Dimensions & Capacity (continued)
| Feature | Limited | Limited 4x4 | Limited Reserve 4x4 | Overland 4x4 | Summit 4x4 | Summit Obsidian 4x4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Cargo | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft | 17.2 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 4,541 lbs | 4,692 lbs | 4,692 lbs | 5,066 lbs | 5,068 lbs | 5,068 lbs |
| Towing | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs | 6,200 lbs |
| Payload | 1,959 lbs | 1,808 lbs | 1,808 lbs | 1,260 lbs | 1,632 lbs | 1,632 lbs |
What Is the Total Maximum Cargo Capacity for Each SUV With Rear Seats Folded?
The 2027 Kia Telluride delivers a total maximum cargo capacity of 88 cubic feet (about 88 cubic feet) with both rear rows folded flat, whereas the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L provides 85 cubic feet (about 85 cubic feet) of maximum cargo volume.
Cargo flexibility behind each row shapes how these vehicles perform during daily errands, hardware store runs, and family vacations. Here is how the cargo dimensions break down between the two models:
- Behind Third Row: Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers 17 cubic feet (about 17 cu ft); Kia Telluride offers 22 cubic feet (about 22 cu ft).
- Behind Second Row: Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers 47 cubic feet (about 47 cu ft); Kia Telluride offers 48 cubic feet (about 48 cu ft).
- Maximum Volume (Rows 2 & 3 Folded): Jeep Grand Cherokee L offers 85 cubic feet (about 85 cu ft); Kia Telluride offers 88 cubic feet (about 88 cu ft).
While the Telluride holds a slight edge in total volume, the Grand Cherokee L offers a highly usable floor shape designed for bulky items. The load floor is wide and flat, with minimal wheel-well intrusion. Power-folding third-row seats and manual tip-and-slide second-row seats make transforming the cabin from passenger transport to full cargo carrier quick and effortless. Under-floor storage compartments in the rear cargo area keep emergency kits, jumper cables, and detail supplies tucked securely out of sight.
Whether you are loading golf bags, camping gear, or flat-packed furniture in Libertyville, the Grand Cherokee L provides the room and tie-down anchors required to transport gear safely. Maintaining your vehicle's cargo management components and power-folding seat mechanisms ensures long-term convenience; you can easily schedule a maintenance visit with our service team to keep every cabin system operating at peak performance.
What Off-Road Features Differentiate the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Which Trim Is Best for Trails?
The 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L differentiates itself from the Kia Telluride through true off-road hardware, offering three distinct four-wheel-drive systems— Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II with an electronic limited-slip rear differential ( eLSD)—alongside available Quadra-Lift Air Suspension providing up to 11.4 inches of ground clearance. The Kia Telluride relies on a front-wheel-drive-based all-wheel-drive system with a center locking differential and off-road appearance packages like the X-Pro, which lacks low-range transfer cases or height-adjustable air suspension.
For drivers planning off-paved excursions, trail driving, or severe winter navigating, the Overland 4x4 and Summit 4x4 trims represent the peak of off-road capability in the Grand Cherokee L lineup. When equipped with Quadra-Drive II, the vehicle continuously monitors tire slip and can proactively send up to 100% of available engine torque to the single wheel with the most grip. Coupled with the Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System, drivers can select tailored drive modes for Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow, and Mud/Sand.
Key off-road metrics that highlight the Grand Cherokee L's mechanical edge include:
- Ground Clearance: Up to 11.4 inches with Quadra-Lift Air Suspension active.
- Approach Angle: Up to 36 degrees for clearing steep obstacles.
- Breakover Angle: Up to 24.4 degrees to prevent high-centering on ridges.
- Departure Angle: Up to 30.3 degrees to clear steep descents without scraping the rear bumper.
- Water Fording: Capability to cross standing water up to 24 inches deep.
The Kia Telluride X-Pro package increases ground clearance slightly to 8.4 inches and adds all-terrain tires, but it cannot match the articulation, wheel travel, or low-range gearing of the Jeep platform.
To learn more about how Jeep off-road engineering translates to daily driving confidence, read our Grand Cherokee model overview. When you are ready to structure a purchase or lease for a 4x4 model, you can submit an online finance application to begin the process from home.
Pricing
Pricing by trim
| Trim | Base MSRP | Destination charge |
|---|---|---|
| Laredo | $41,730 | $1,995 |
| Laredo 4x4 | $43,730 | $1,995 |
| Laredo Altitude | $46,960 | $1,995 |
| Laredo Altitude 4x4 | $48,960 | $1,995 |
| Laredo X | $44,225 | $1,995 |
| Laredo X 4x4 | $46,225 | $1,995 |
| Limited | $47,130 | $1,995 |
| Limited 4x4 | $49,130 | $1,995 |
| Limited Reserve 4x4 | $54,725 | $1,995 |
| Overland 4x4 | $57,900 | $1,995 |
| Summit 4x4 | $63,130 | $1,995 |
| Summit Obsidian 4x4 | $65,130 | $1,995 |
Does Towing Heavy Loads Significantly Lower Fuel Efficiency on Three-Row SUVs?
Yes, towing heavy loads significantly reduces fuel efficiency on three-row SUVs, typically decreasing real-world fuel economy by 30% to 50% depending on trailer weight, frontal surface area, ambient temperature, and road grade.
Under normal driving conditions without a trailer, the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L achieves competitive EPA fuel economy ratings across its trim lineup:
- Laredo / Laredo X (RWD, 3.6L V6): 19 city / 26 hwy / 21 combined
- Laredo 4x4 / Laredo X 4x4 (3.6L V6): 18 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined
- Laredo Altitude / Limited (RWD, 2.0L Turbo): 21 city / 26 hwy / 23 combined
- Laredo Altitude 4x4 / Limited 4x4 (2.0L Turbo): 20 city / 25 hwy / 22 combined
- Limited Reserve 4x4 / Overland 4x4 / Summit 4x4 / Summit Obsidian 4x4 (2.0L Turbo): 20 city / 25 hwy / 22 combined
When pulling a 5,000-pound trailer or boat, aerodynamic drag and added mass force the engine to operate in higher load zones for extended periods. On the 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo, the turbocharger generates continuous boost to maintain speed, while the 3.6L Pentastar V6 holds lower transmission gears to stay in its powerband. As a result, fuel economy during heavy towing generally ranges between 11 MPG and 15 MPG for both the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and the Kia Telluride.
To minimize fuel economy loss while trailering, ensure your trailer tires are inflated to recommended cold pressures and keep tongue weight within the recommended 10% to 15% band of total trailer weight. Installing genuine Mopar® tow hitch receivers, trailer brake controllers, and towing mirrors helps maintain vehicle stability and reduce mechanical strain. You can order factory towing accessories from our parts team to ensure your SUV is fully prepped for trailering. If you ever experience tire issues or trailering breakdowns on the road, remember that manufacturer protection is available via Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram Roadside Assistance: 1-800-521-2779 for comprehensive emergency support.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy and range by trim
| Trim | MPG |
|---|---|
| Laredo | 19 city / 26 hwy / 21 combined |
| Laredo 4x4 | 18 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined |
| Laredo Altitude | 21 city / 26 hwy / 23 combined |
| Laredo Altitude 4x4 | 20 city / 25 hwy / 22 combined |
| Laredo X | 19 city / 26 hwy / 21 combined |
| Laredo X 4x4 | 18 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined |
| Limited | 21 city / 26 hwy / 23 combined |
| Limited 4x4 | 20 city / 25 hwy / 22 combined |
| Limited Reserve 4x4 | 20 city / 25 hwy / 22 combined |
| Overland 4x4 | 20 city / 25 hwy / 22 combined |
| Summit 4x4 | 20 city / 25 hwy / 22 combined |
| Summit Obsidian 4x4 | 20 city / 25 hwy / 22 combined |
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Kia Telluride
Q: Does the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L require a special package to reach its 6,200-pound max towing rating?
To tow up to 6,200 lbs with the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, drivers must opt for the Trailer Tow Prep Group or factory receiver hitch package. This package includes a class IV hitch receiver, 7-pin and 4-pin wiring harnesses, heavy-duty engine cooling, and rear load-leveling suspension components depending on the trim level.
Q: What drivetrain systems are standard on upper 2027 Grand Cherokee L trims?
The 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited Reserve 4x4, Overland 4x4, Summit 4x4, and Summit Obsidian 4x4 come standard with four-wheel drive. The Overland and Summit models feature advanced systems such as Quadra-Trac II or Quadra-Drive II with an electronic limited-slip rear differential, combined with the height-adjustable Quadra-Lift Air Suspension.
Q: Can the second-row seating in the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L be configured as a bench?
Yes, while six-passenger seating with second-row captain's chairs is standard, an optional second-row 60/40 bench seat can be selected on most trims to expand total seating capacity to seven passengers.
Q: What is the destination charge for the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L lineup?
The factory destination charge for all 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L models is $1,995. This charge is standard across the lineup, from the entry Laredo trim starting at a base MSRP of $41,730 up to the top-tier Summit Obsidian 4x4 with a base MSRP of $65,130.
Q: How do I prepare my trade-in before visiting Liberty Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for a test drive?
To prepare your current vehicle for a trade-in appraisal, clean the interior and exterior, collect all key fobs, gather the vehicle title or lien payoff documentation, and bring current registration and maintenance records to your appointment.
Test Drive the 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
The 2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee L stands out in the competitive three-row SUV segment by combining a best-in-class 6,200 lbs towing capacity, proven four-wheel-drive capability, and a refined interior layout. Starting at a base MSRP of $41,730 for the Laredo (plus $1,995 destination) and extending through trims like the Laredo 4x4 ( $43,730 MSRP), Laredo Altitude ( $46,960 MSRP), Laredo Altitude 4x4 ( $48,960 MSRP), Laredo X ( $44,225 MSRP), Laredo X 4x4 ( $46,225 MSRP), Limited ( $47,130 MSRP), Limited 4x4 ( $49,130 MSRP), Limited Reserve 4x4 ( $54,725 MSRP), Overland 4x4 ( $57,900 MSRP), Summit 4x4 ( $63,130 MSRP), and Summit Obsidian 4x4 ( $65,130 MSRP), there is a configuration tailored to every lifestyle.
At Liberty Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, our team is dedicated to helping you explore vehicle features, evaluate trim differences, and select the right accessories for your family's needs. Whether you require the high torque of the 2.0L Hurricane 4 Turbo engine or the off-road hardware of Quadra-Drive II, we invite you to compare models on our lot.
Ready to see how the Grand Cherokee L fits your daily drive? You can get directions to our Libertyville showroom at 1000 E Park Ave, Libertyville, IL 60048 to take a test drive. You can also contact our showroom team at (847) 362-2683 to schedule an appointment or discuss current vehicle availability today.