The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit stands as one of the most luxurious and capable SUVs in Jeep’s lineup. Many drivers choose it for its comfort, technology, and strong off-road abilities.
But another big reason people love the Summit is for its towing power. Whether you want to pull a boat, a trailer, or a pair of jet skis, understanding the towing capacity of the Grand Cherokee Summit is essential.
This guide will help you understand what the Summit can tow, what affects its towing capacity, and how to get the most out of your SUV.
What Is Towing Capacity?
Towing capacity is the maximum weight your vehicle can safely pull. It includes the weight of the trailer and everything on it. If you exceed this limit, you risk damaging your car, trailer, or both. Even worse, it can lead to dangerous driving situations.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit is designed with towing in mind. However, its maximum towing capacity depends on several factors, including the engine you choose, the drivetrain, and whether you add a towing package.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit: Engine Options And Towing Specs
The Summit trim of the Grand Cherokee usually comes with a choice of powerful engines. Each engine option offers a different towing capacity. Here’s a look at the main engine choices for recent model years:
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Max Towing Capacity (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.6L V6 | 293 | 260 | 6,200 |
| 5.7L V8 | 357 | 390 | 7,200 |
| 2.0L Turbo PHEV (4xe) | 375 | 470 | 6,000 |
As you can see, the 5.7L V8 offers the highest towing capacity. However, even the base V6 can handle most light to moderate towing needs.
Real-world Example
If you have a 19-foot boat that weighs about 3,500 pounds with its trailer, the V6 engine can easily tow it. But if you plan to haul a large camper or horse trailer, you’ll want the V8 engine for the extra power.
What Affects Towing Capacity?
It’s not just the engine that matters. Several factors affect how much weight your Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit can tow:
- Drivetrain: Four-wheel drive (4WD) models sometimes have slightly lower towing ratings than rear-wheel drive (RWD) versions. Always check your specific configuration.
- Towing Package: Jeep offers a Trailer Tow Group IV package. This adds features like a heavy-duty engine cooling system, a rear load-leveling suspension, and a Class IV hitch receiver. Having this package is essential for reaching maximum towing capacity.
- Payload: Payload is the weight your vehicle carries inside (passengers and cargo). The more weight inside the SUV, the less you can safely tow.
- Tongue Weight: This is the downward force the trailer puts on the hitch. Too much tongue weight can overload the rear suspension.
- Wheelbase and Suspension: A longer wheelbase and upgraded suspension help with towing stability. The Summit trim offers an advanced suspension system that improves towing comfort and control.
Towing Features On The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit
The Summit trim is packed with technology that makes towing easier and safer. Here are some key features:
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Trailer Detection: Alerts you if another vehicle is in your blind spot, even with a trailer attached.
- Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control: Helps you start on hills without rolling backward and controls your speed when going down steep grades.
- Rear Backup Camera with Trailer View: Makes it easier to line up your hitch and see behind the trailer.
- Integrated Trailer Brake Controller: Adjusts the trailer’s brakes from inside the vehicle, making it easier to stop safely.
- Air Suspension: The Quadra-Lift Air Suspension system can raise or lower the vehicle to help connect a trailer or improve stability.
These features are not just for comfort—they make a real difference when towing large loads, especially for less experienced drivers.
Choosing The Right Engine For Your Towing Needs
Picking the best engine depends on what you plan to tow. Here’s a simple way to match your needs:
| Towing Need | Recommended Engine | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Small boats, pop-up campers, utility trailers | 3.6L V6 | Good balance of power and fuel economy. |
| Travel trailers, large boats, car haulers | 5.7L V8 | More power and higher towing rating. |
| Eco-friendly towing, moderate loads | 2.0L Turbo PHEV (4xe) | Strong torque, better mpg, but slightly lower max capacity. |
If you’re unsure, it’s safer to have more towing capacity than you think you need. Overloading your vehicle can cause engine strain, brake failure, and poor handling.
Common Mistakes When Towing With The Grand Cherokee Summit
Even experienced drivers make mistakes when towing. Here are some to avoid:
- Ignoring Payload Limits: Don’t just look at towing capacity. If your SUV is full of people and gear, you may not be able to tow the maximum rated weight.
- Not Using Proper Hitch Equipment: Always use a hitch rated for the weight you’re towing. Using a weak hitch is dangerous.
- Forgetting About Trailer Brakes: Heavy trailers need their own brakes. The Grand Cherokee Summit can control trailer brakes, but your trailer must have them installed.
- Underestimating Trailer Sway: High speeds, crosswinds, or improper weight distribution can cause sway. Use a weight-distributing hitch and keep speeds moderate.
- Skipping Pre-Tow Checks: Always check tire pressure, lights, and connections before you drive.
How The Grand Cherokee Summit Compares To Other Suvs
The Summit’s towing power is impressive, but how does it stack up against rivals? Here’s a quick comparison:
| Model | Max Towing Capacity (lbs) | Base Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit (V8) | 7,200 | 5.7L V8 |
| Ford Explorer | 5,600 | 3.0L V6 |
| Toyota 4Runner | 5,000 | 4.0L V6 |
| Chevrolet Traverse | 5,000 | 3.6L V6 |
| Dodge Durango (V8) | 8,700 | 6.4L V8 |
The Grand Cherokee Summit sits near the top for towing power in the midsize SUV segment. Only the Dodge Durango V8 beats it, but the Summit offers more luxury features.
Tips For Safe And Easy Towing
Towing is about more than just power. Here are some tips that even experienced drivers sometimes miss:
- Distribute Weight Evenly: Place heavy items over the trailer axle. This prevents sway and keeps handling predictable.
- Check Local Laws: Some states require trailer brakes or special mirrors. Always check before you travel.
- Use Tow/Haul Mode: The Summit’s transmission offers this mode for better gear shifts and engine braking.
- Practice Maneuvering: Before your first trip, practice turning, backing up, and stopping with a loaded trailer in an empty parking lot.
- Monitor Tire Pressure: Both your SUV and trailer tires need to be at the correct pressure. Underinflated tires can cause blowouts.
Non-obvious Insights For New Towing Owners
- Altitude Reduces Towing Capacity: If you drive in the mountains, your engine loses power at high altitudes. Your real-world towing ability can drop by 2–3% for every 1,000 feet above sea level.
- Trailer Length Matters: It’s not just about weight. Very long trailers can be harder to control, even if they’re light. The Summit’s advanced suspension helps, but always check the recommended maximum trailer length in your manual.
Maintenance For Long-term Towing
Regular towing puts extra stress on your vehicle. Here’s how to keep your Grand Cherokee Summit in top shape:
- Change Transmission Fluid More Often: Towing heats up the transmission, so follow the severe service schedule.
- Inspect Brakes Regularly: Both vehicle and trailer brakes need frequent checks.
- Watch Cooling Systems: The engine and transmission can overheat with heavy loads. The Trailer Tow Group IV package adds better cooling, but always keep an eye on temperature gauges.
When Not To Max Out Your Towing Capacity
Just because your SUV can tow 7,200 pounds doesn’t mean you should do it every day. Consider these points:
- Long Trips: For cross-country journeys, tow 10–20% less than max capacity to reduce wear and improve safety.
- Hot Weather: Heat stresses engines and transmissions. Towing in summer? Lower your load.
- Frequent Hills: Steep grades demand more from your vehicle. Lighter loads are safer.
Frequently Asked Questions
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“,”visible”:true},{“id”:”faq-question-cb4b905ef374″,”title”:”Do I Need The Trailer Tow Group Iv Package To Tow Heavy Loads?”,”content”:”Yes, for towing anything close to the maximum capacity, the Trailer Tow Group IV is essential. It includes a heavy-duty engine cooling system, a Class IV hitch, and other equipment to safely handle large trailers.
“,”visible”:true},{“id”:”faq-question-1d3ba610cebb”,”title”:”Can I Tow A Camper With The Grand Cherokee Summit?”,”content”:”Most small and midsize campers are within the Summit’s towing range, especially with the V8 engine. Always check your camper’s total weight (including cargo and water) against your Jeep’s towing rating.
“,”visible”:true},{“id”:”faq-question-e17f18a97ff4″,”title”:”Is The Plug-in Hybrid Grand Cherokee Summit Good For Towing?”,”content”:”The 4xe plug-in hybrid offers strong torque and can tow up to 6,000 pounds. It’s a good option for moderate loads and offers better fuel economy, but it doesn’t reach the V8’s max towing capacity.
“,”visible”:true},{“id”:”faq-question-455460dd7dc6″,”title”:”Where Can I Find Official Towing Information For My Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit?”,”content”:”You can find official specs and towing guides on the Jeep official website and in your owner’s manual.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit combines luxury, comfort, and strong towing abilities. By understanding its towing capacity, using the right equipment, and following safe practices, you can enjoy all the adventures your Summit makes possible—without worry. Choose the right engine, respect your limits, and your Jeep will serve you well for years to come.
“,”visible”:true}]} –>What Is The Maximum Towing Capacity Of The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit?
The maximum towing capacity is 7,200 pounds with the 5.7L V8 engine and Trailer Tow Group IV package. The V6 can tow up to 6,200 pounds, and the 4xe plug-in hybrid can tow up to 6,000 pounds.
Do I Need The Trailer Tow Group Iv Package To Tow Heavy Loads?
Yes, for towing anything close to the maximum capacity, the Trailer Tow Group IV is essential. It includes a heavy-duty engine cooling system, a Class IV hitch, and other equipment to safely handle large trailers.
Can I Tow A Camper With The Grand Cherokee Summit?
Most small and midsize campers are within the Summit’s towing range, especially with the V8 engine. Always check your camper’s total weight (including cargo and water) against your Jeep’s towing rating.
Is The Plug-in Hybrid Grand Cherokee Summit Good For Towing?
The 4xe plug-in hybrid offers strong torque and can tow up to 6,000 pounds. It’s a good option for moderate loads and offers better fuel economy, but it doesn’t reach the V8’s max towing capacity.
Where Can I Find Official Towing Information For My Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit?
You can find official specs and towing guides on the Jeep official website and in your owner’s manual.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit combines luxury, comfort, and strong towing abilities. By understanding its towing capacity, using the right equipment, and following safe practices, you can enjoy all the adventures your Summit makes possible—without worry. Choose the right engine, respect your limits, and your Jeep will serve you well for years to come.
