Measuring the cargo space in a Grand Cherokee requires knowing the exact length from the folded seatbacks to the tailgate. That’s why we’re diving deep into the Jeep Grand Cherokee cargo length with seats down, so you can plan your next move with confidence.
Whether you’re hauling lumber, camping gear, or a new piece of furniture, knowing the flat-floor length is essential. Let’s get straight to the numbers and practical advice.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Cargo Length With Seats Down
The exact measurement varies slightly by model year, but the general figure is consistent. For most recent models (2011–2024), the cargo length with the rear seats folded is about 72.6 inches (184.4 cm).
That’s a solid six feet of continuous space from the back of the front seats to the inside of the tailgate. This length allows you to fit items like a standard 6-foot ladder or a full-size mattress with the seats down.
Older models, like the 2005–2010 generation, offer a slightly shorter length of around 70 inches. Always double-check your specific year’s manual for the most precise number.
Measuring Your Own Jeep Grand Cherokee
Don’t rely solely on factory specs if you need a custom fit. Here’s how to measure the cargo length yourself:
- Fold the rear seats completely flat. Ensure the seatbacks lock into the down position.
- Move the front seats to your normal driving position.
- Use a tape measure from the back of the front passenger seat to the inside edge of the tailgate.
- Measure along the floor for the most accurate reading.
- Note any obstructions like the spare tire well or seat belt buckles.
This method gives you the real-world usable length. It accounts for the slight gap between the folded seats and the front seats.
Key Dimensions For Different Generations
Not all Grand Cherokees are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown by generation:
- WK (2005–2010): Cargo length with seats down is approximately 70 inches. The floor is not perfectly flat due to the rear seat design.
- WK2 (2011–2021): Cargo length is about 72.6 inches. The floor is nearly flat, making it ideal for bulky items.
- WL (2022–Present): Cargo length is similar to the WK2, around 72.6 inches. The new design offers a slightly wider opening.
These numbers are for the standard wheelbase. The Grand Cherokee L (three-row) has different measurements, which we’ll cover later.
How To Maximize The Flat Floor Space
Getting the seats down is only half the battle. You want to use every inch of that 72.6-inch length effectively.
Folding The Seats Properly
Most Grand Cherokees have a 60/40 split rear seat. Follow these steps:
- Lower the headrests all the way down.
- Pull the release lever on the seatback.
- Push the seatback forward until it clicks into place.
- Repeat for the other side.
Some models have a one-touch fold feature. Check your owner’s manual for the exact location of the release handles.
Removing The Cargo Cover
If you have a retractable cargo cover, remove it before folding the seats. It takes up valuable vertical space and can get damaged.
Store the cover in the spare tire area or at home. This gives you the full height clearance from floor to ceiling.
Using The Cargo Tie-Downs
The Grand Cherokee has several tie-down hooks in the cargo area. Use them to secure your load, especially if you’re carrying long items that extend past the tailgate.
Ratchet straps work best. Attach them to the lower hooks near the floor to prevent items from sliding forward during braking.
Comparing Cargo Length To Competitors
How does the Jeep Grand Cherokee cargo length with seats down stack up against rivals? Let’s look at some common comparisons:
- Ford Explorer: Cargo length is about 77 inches. Slightly longer than the Grand Cherokee.
- Chevrolet Tahoe: Cargo length is around 80 inches. Much longer, but also a larger vehicle.
- Toyota 4Runner: Cargo length is about 71 inches. Very close to the Grand Cherokee.
- Honda Pilot: Cargo length is around 76 inches. A bit more room for long items.
The Grand Cherokee offers a competitive length for its class. It’s not the longest, but the flat floor and wide opening make it very usable.
What Fits In The Cargo Area With Seats Down
Knowing the exact length helps you plan your hauls. Here are some common items that fit:
- 6-foot ladder: Fits diagonally or straight if the front seat is moved forward slightly.
- Full-size mattress: Fits with the seats down and the tailgate closed.
- 2×4 lumber (8 feet): Will stick out past the tailgate. Use a red flag and secure it properly.
- Mountain bike (front wheel off): Fits easily with the seats down.
- Large suitcase (32-inch): Fits upright with the seats down.
For items longer than 72.6 inches, you can fold the front passenger seat forward. This extends the usable length to nearly 10 feet in some models.
Folding The Front Passenger Seat
Some Grand Cherokee models allow the front passenger seat to fold flat. This creates a continuous load floor from the dashboard to the tailgate.
Check your owner’s manual to see if your model has this feature. It’s common on higher trims like the Overland and Summit.
With the front seat folded, you can carry items up to 96 inches long. That’s enough for a standard 8-foot kayak or a surfboard.
Grand Cherokee L Cargo Length Differences
The three-row Grand Cherokee L has a different cargo configuration. With the third-row seats down, the cargo length is about 47 inches.
With both the second and third rows folded, the length increases to around 72 inches. That’s similar to the two-row model.
However, the floor in the L model is not perfectly flat. There’s a slight step between the second and third rows.
Measuring The L Model
If you own a Grand Cherokee L, measure from the back of the second-row seats to the tailgate with the third row down. That’s your primary cargo length.
For maximum length, fold both rows. The measurement will be from the back of the front seats to the tailgate, just like the standard model.
Keep in mind that the L model has a longer wheelbase, so the cargo area is slightly wider. But the length is almost identical.
Tips For Hauling Long Items
When you’re using the full cargo length, safety is key. Here are some practical tips:
- Always secure items with straps or bungee cords.
- Use a cargo net to prevent smaller items from shifting.
- If items extend past the tailgate, use a red flag or light.
- Keep the tailgate closed unless the item is too long.
- Drive slowly and avoid sharp turns with a heavy load.
Overloading the cargo area can affect handling. The Grand Cherokee is capable, but it’s not a pickup truck.
Using A Roof Rack For Extra Length
If you need to carry items longer than 8 feet, consider a roof rack. This frees up the interior cargo space for other gear.
Roof racks are great for kayaks, canoes, and lumber. Just make sure the load is evenly distributed and secured.
The Grand Cherokee’s roof rails can support up to 150 pounds. Check your owner’s manual for the exact weight limit.
Common Mistakes When Measuring Cargo Length
Many owners make simple errors when measuring. Avoid these pitfalls:
- Not folding the seats completely flat. If the seatbacks are slightly raised, you lose inches.
- Forgetting to remove the cargo cover. It blocks vertical space and can distort your measurement.
- Measuring from the wrong point. Always start from the back of the front seat, not the dashboard.
- Ignoring the spare tire well. The floor dips down, which can affect long items that need a flat surface.
Take your time and measure twice. It’s better to know the exact length before you try to load a large item.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Cargo Length Of A 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee With Seats Down?
The 2020 model has a cargo length of approximately 72.6 inches with the rear seats folded. This is consistent with the WK2 generation.
Can I Fit A 6-Foot Ladder In A Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Yes, a 6-foot ladder fits easily with the rear seats down. You may need to angle it slightly or move the front seat forward.
Is The Cargo Floor Flat In A Jeep Grand Cherokee?
In most models, the floor is nearly flat when the seats are folded. Some generations have a slight hump, but it’s minimal.
How Long Is The Cargo Area In A Jeep Grand Cherokee L?
With the third row down, the cargo length is about 47 inches. With both rows folded, it’s around 72 inches.
Does The Grand Cherokee Have A Pass-through For Long Items?
Yes, the 60/40 split rear seats allow you to fold one side for long items while keeping a passenger in the other seat.
Final Thoughts On Cargo Length
Knowing the Jeep Grand Cherokee cargo length with seats down helps you make smarter decisions. Whether you’re hauling gear for a weekend trip or moving furniture, the 72.6-inch length is versatile.
Always measure your specific vehicle if you need exact numbers. Model years and trim levels can vary slightly.
The Grand Cherokee offers a good balance of passenger comfort and cargo capacity. With the seats down, it’s a capable hauler for most everyday needs.
Take advantage of the flat floor and tie-downs to secure your load. And if you need more length, consider folding the front passenger seat or using a roof rack.
Now you have the information you need to plan your next haul. Measure twice, load once, and enjoy the versatility of your Grand Cherokee.