With the rear seats folded flat, the Jeep Cherokee’s cargo area offers a surprisingly long and usable space for hauling gear or camping supplies. Understanding the exact Jeep Cherokee cargo length with seats down is crucial for planning trips, moving furniture, or simply maximizing your SUV’s utility. This article breaks down the measurements, real-world usability, and tips for making the most of that space.
Many owners are surprised by how much they can fit once the seats are down. The cargo length isn’t just a number; it determines if your skis, lumber, or air mattress will fit. Let’s get into the details.
Jeep Cherokee Cargo Length With Seats Down
The official cargo length for the Jeep Cherokee with the rear seats folded down is approximately 68.3 inches (173.5 cm). This measurement is taken from the back of the front seats to the inside of the tailgate. It’s a solid length for most DIY projects or camping trips.
However, this number can vary slightly depending on the model year and trim level. For example, the Cherokee Trailhawk might have a slightly different interior layout due to its off-road features. Always measure your specific vehicle if you need precise fitment.
Here is a quick breakdown of the key cargo dimensions:
- Length with seats down: 68.3 inches
- Width between wheel wells: 40.0 inches
- Maximum width at the tailgate: 43.0 inches
- Height from floor to ceiling: 30.0 inches
- Total cargo volume with seats down: 54.9 cubic feet
These numbers give you a solid foundation. But real-world use often differs from spec sheets. The 68.3-inch length is enough for a 6-foot person to lie diagonally, but not straight. For camping, you might need to fold the front seats forward or use a cargo organizer.
How To Measure Your Jeep Cherokee’s Cargo Length
If you want to be 100% sure about your specific model, measuring yourself is easy. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Fold both rear seats flat. Make sure the seatbacks are locked in the down position.
- Move the front seats to your normal driving position. Don’t slide them all the way forward unless you plan to drive that way.
- Use a tape measure. Start at the back of the front passenger seat (or driver’s seat) and measure straight to the inside edge of the tailgate.
- Record the measurement. Write it down for future reference.
This method accounts for your personal seating preferences. Some people sit closer to the steering wheel, which gives them more cargo length. Others prefer a more reclined position, which reduces it.
One common mistake is measuring from the back of the front seat when it’s pushed all the way forward. That gives you an unrealistic number. Always measure with the seats in your actual driving position.
Real-World Uses For The 68.3-Inch Cargo Length
The 68.3-inch length is versatile. Here are some practical examples of what fits:
- 8-foot lumber: You can fit 8-foot boards by angling them between the front seats or letting them rest on the dashboard. But straight lengthwise, they won’t fit.
- Camping air mattress: A standard twin air mattress (75 inches long) is too long. But a camping-specific mattress or a folded foam pad works great.
- Ski or snowboard: Most skis are 160-190 cm (63-75 inches). They fit diagonally or with the front seats moved forward slightly.
- Moving boxes: Standard moving boxes (18x18x18 inches) stack easily. You can fit about 8-10 boxes with the seats down.
- Furniture: A small bookshelf or desk (under 68 inches) fits without disassembly. Larger items require angling.
The key is to measure your cargo before you buy. Don’t assume something fits just because the spec sheet says 68.3 inches. Always account for the shape of the cargo and the interior contours.
Comparing Cargo Length Across Jeep Cherokee Model Years
The Jeep Cherokee has gone through several generations. Cargo dimensions have changed slightly. Here is a quick comparison:
- 2014-2018 Cherokee: Cargo length with seats down is about 68.0 inches. Total volume is 54.9 cubic feet.
- 2019-2022 Cherokee: Similar dimensions, but the rear seat design changed slightly. Length remains around 68.3 inches.
- 2023+ Cherokee (if applicable): The latest models maintain similar cargo space, though some trims have minor variations.
If you own a 2014-2018 model, your cargo length is almost identical to the newer ones. The main difference is in the shape of the cargo area. Older models have a slightly more square opening, while newer ones are more tapered.
One important note: The Cherokee’s cargo floor is not perfectly flat when the seats are down. There is a slight hump where the seatbacks meet the floor. This can affect how you load long items. A cargo mat or plywood sheet can help level it out.
Tips For Maximizing Your Jeep Cherokee’s Cargo Space
Getting the most out of your 68.3 inches requires some strategy. Here are practical tips:
- Remove the cargo cover. This adds vertical space and makes loading easier.
- Fold the front seats forward. If you need to haul something longer than 68 inches, fold the front passenger seat flat. This extends the length to over 100 inches.
- Use a cargo organizer. Keep smaller items from sliding around. This also helps you stack items more efficiently.
- Install a roof rack. For oversized items, a roof basket or cargo box is a lifesaver.
- Consider a hitch cargo carrier. For bulky gear that won’t fit inside, a hitch-mounted platform is great.
Another trick is to use the space under the cargo floor. Some Cherokee models have a hidden storage compartment there. It’s perfect for emergency kits or tools.
If you frequently haul long items, consider getting a cargo net or tie-down straps. This prevents items from shifting during turns or stops. Safety first.
Common Mistakes When Using The Cargo Area
Even with the right measurements, people make errors. Here are common ones to avoid:
- Not folding the seats completely flat. Sometimes the seatbacks don’t lock down, reducing usable length.
- Forgetting to move the front seats. If you leave them too far back, you lose several inches of cargo length.
- Overlooking the wheel wells. They intrude into the cargo area, reducing width. Long items must go between them.
- Ignoring the tailgate angle. The tailgate opens upward, so you need clearance behind the vehicle.
These mistakes can make a difference of several inches. Always double-check your setup before loading.
How The Cherokee Compares To Competitors
How does the Jeep Cherokee’s cargo length stack up against similar SUVs? Here is a quick comparison:
- Honda CR-V: Cargo length with seats down is about 70.0 inches. Slightly longer than the Cherokee.
- Toyota RAV4: Around 69.0 inches. Also a bit longer.
- Ford Escape: Approximately 68.0 inches. Very close to the Cherokee.
- Subaru Forester: About 71.0 inches. One of the longest in the class.
The Cherokee is competitive but not class-leading. Its strength is in overall cargo volume (54.9 cubic feet) rather than sheer length. If you need maximum length, consider the Forester or CR-V.
However, the Cherokee offers better off-road capability than most competitors. If you need to haul gear to a remote campsite, the Cherokee’s Trailhawk trim is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I fit a 6-foot air mattress in the Jeep Cherokee with seats down?
A: No, a standard 72-inch mattress is too long. You need a shorter camping mattress or fold the front seats forward.
Q: What is the cargo length in the 2015 Jeep Cherokee?
A: The 2015 model has approximately 68.0 inches of cargo length with the rear seats folded down.
Q: Does the Jeep Cherokee have a flat cargo floor when seats are down?
A: Not perfectly flat. There is a slight hump where the seatbacks meet the floor. A cargo mat helps.
Q: How do I fold the rear seats in a Jeep Cherokee?
A: Pull the release levers on the seatbacks, then push the seats forward until they lock flat.
Q: What is the maximum cargo length with front seats folded?
A: With the front passenger seat folded forward, you can get over 100 inches of length.
Final Thoughts On The Jeep Cherokee Cargo Length
The Jeep Cherokee’s cargo length with seats down is a solid 68.3 inches. It’s enough for most everyday hauling needs. Whether you’re moving furniture, going camping, or just picking up supplies from the store, this space works well.
Remember to measure your specific vehicle if you need exact numbers. Model year and trim can cause small variations. And always plan your loading strategy ahead of time to avoid frustration.
With a little creativity, you can fit surprisingly large items. The Cherokee is a versatile SUV that balances daily driving with practical cargo capacity. Use the tips in this article to make the most of every inch.
If you have any doubts, test-fit your cargo before you leave the store. It’s better to know at the parking lot than on the road. Happy hauling.