The 2017 Jeep Cherokee is well-known among midsize SUVs for its comfort, off-road ability, and flexible towing power. For drivers who need to tow a camper, boat, or trailer, understanding its towing capacity is important.
This article breaks down exactly how much the 2017 Jeep Cherokee can tow, what affects its towing ability, and what you need to know before using it for hauling. If you’re considering this SUV for work or adventure, read on for a clear guide.
2017 Jeep Cherokee Towing Capacity Overview
The towing capacity of the 2017 Jeep Cherokee depends on the engine, drivetrain, and whether the vehicle has the optional towing package. The range is broad, so it’s important to match your Cherokee’s specs to your towing needs.
- Base towing capacity: 2,000 pounds (without towing package, 2.4L engine)
- Maximum towing capacity: 4,500 pounds (with 3.2L V6 engine and Trailer Tow Group package)
These numbers mean the Cherokee is suitable for many small to medium trailers, but not for very heavy loads like large RVs or horse trailers.
Engine Choices And Their Impact
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee offers two main engines. Each one impacts towing performance:
- 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir 2 I4 Engine
- Towing capacity: Up to 2,000 lbs
- Good for lightweight trailers, small boats, or a pair of jet skis
- Not recommended for regular heavy towing
- 3.2L Pentastar V6 Engine
- Towing capacity: Up to 4,500 lbs (with towing package)
- Handles medium campers, small horse trailers, and larger boats
Insight: Many buyers overlook the need for the towing package to reach the 4,500 lb capacity. Without it, the V6 usually maxes out around 2,000 lbs, same as the four-cylinder. Always check for the factory-installed package.
Drivetrain Options
The Cherokee comes in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD). While 4WD is not required for basic towing, it improves traction if you plan to tow on loose or rough surfaces. However, the drivetrain does not change the maximum towing weight; the engine and towing package are the key factors.
Towing Package Details
To unlock the highest towing capacity, the Trailer Tow Group package is essential. It includes:
- Class III hitch receiver
- Wiring harness (4- and 7-pin)
- Engine oil cooler
- Full-size spare tire
This package is available mostly with the V6 engine. It’s a must-have if you plan to tow over 2,000 lbs.
Trim Levels And Towing Capacity
Different trim levels offer different towing options. The five main trims are:
- Sport
- Latitude
- Limited
- Trailhawk
- Overland
Most trims can be equipped with the V6 and towing package, but the Trailhawk is the most common choice for those who need both towing and off-road features.
Real-world Towing Examples
Here are some real-world examples of what you can tow with a properly equipped 2017 Jeep Cherokee:
- Small travel trailer (under 4,000 lbs)
- Pop-up camper
- Single-axle utility trailer
- Small fishing boat
- Two ATVs on a trailer
If you plan to tow something close to the maximum weight, always factor in the weight of passengers, gear, and fuel.
Towing Capacity Comparison
To help you understand where the Cherokee stands among other SUVs, here’s a comparison with similar models from 2017.
| Model | Engine | Max Towing (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee | 3.2L V6 | 4,500 |
| Honda CR-V | 1.5L Turbo I4 | 1,500 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 2.5L I4 | 1,500 |
| Ford Escape | 2.0L Turbo I4 | 3,500 |
Insight: The Cherokee outperforms most compact SUVs in towing, especially with the V6 and tow package. Many buyers miss this advantage when comparing models.
Payload And Tongue Weight
Payload means the total weight the vehicle can carry inside (passengers + cargo). For the 2017 Cherokee, it’s usually between 1,000 and 1,200 lbs. The tongue weight (the downward force from the trailer on the hitch) should not exceed 10% of the trailer’s loaded weight—so about 200 to 450 lbs maximum.
Important Towing Tips
To tow safely with your 2017 Cherokee:
- Always use the correct hitch and wiring.
- Don’t exceed the lower of the vehicle’s capacity or the hitch’s rating.
- Distribute weight evenly in the trailer.
- Check tire pressure and brakes before every trip.
- Use tow/haul mode if available.
Tip: Many drivers forget to factor in the weight of gear and passengers, which can push the total load over the safe limit.
Basic Towing Capacities By Cherokee Configuration
This summary shows the most common setups for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee:
| Cherokee Engine | Towing Package | Max Towing (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4L I4 | No | 2,000 |
| 2.4L I4 | Yes | 2,000 |
| 3.2L V6 | No | 2,000 |
| 3.2L V6 | Yes | 4,500 |
What Beginners Often Miss
- Towing capacity is not just engine power—the transmission, brakes, and cooling systems are also upgraded in the tow package.
- Aftermarket hitches do not increase your Jeep’s rated towing limit. Only the factory setup is covered by Jeep’s warranty for max towing.
Closing Thoughts
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee is a strong choice for drivers who want a balance between daily driving and occasional towing. With the right setup, it can handle most small to medium trailers with confidence. Always check your specific model’s equipment and never guess the towing capacity. If in doubt, look in your owner’s manual or ask a dealer.
For more official specs and details, visit the Jeep official site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Maximum Towing Capacity Of The 2017 Jeep Cherokee?
With the 3.2L V6 engine and Trailer Tow Group, the maximum towing capacity is 4,500 pounds.
Can The 2.4l Engine Tow A Small Camper?
Yes, but only very small or lightweight campers under 2,000 pounds. It’s best for jet skis or small utility trailers.
Does Adding An Aftermarket Hitch Increase My Towing Capacity?
No. Only the factory-installed tow package raises the official towing limit.
Aftermarket hitches do not change the manufacturer’s rating.
Is The Trailhawk Trim Better For Towing?
The Trailhawk is popular for off-roading and can tow up to 4,500 lbs with the V6 and tow package, just like other trims.
Where Can I Find My Jeep’s Exact Towing Capacity?
Check your owner’s manual, the driver-side door sticker, or ask a Jeep dealer. Always match your VIN for the most accurate specs.
