The Jeep Grand Cherokee is one of the most recognizable SUVs on the road. But for drivers who face icy mornings, snow-packed streets, or love winter adventures, the Grand Cherokee North Edition stands out as something special.
What makes this version unique? And is it the right fit for your needs?
Let’s break down what the North Edition offers, how it compares to other Grand Cherokee models, and why it might be the ideal choice for cold-weather driving.
What Is The Jeep Grand Cherokee North Edition?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee North Edition is a special trim level designed for drivers in colder climates. Jeep created this version to offer more confidence and comfort during winter months. It builds on the Grand Cherokee’s reputation for off-road ability by adding features that make winter driving safer and easier.
This edition first appeared in the 2020 model year. It’s not a separate model, but a package built on popular trims like the Laredo. The North Edition includes upgrades for both performance and comfort, focusing on what matters most when roads get slippery.
Key Features Of The North Edition
What sets the North Edition apart from the standard Grand Cherokee? Here are the main features:
- Four-Wheel Drive System: Every North Edition comes with Jeep’s Quadra-Trac I 4×4 system. This system sends power to all four wheels automatically, helping keep traction on snow or ice.
- All-Season Tires: The North Edition uses all-terrain tires that grip better in cold or mixed conditions. They’re paired with stylish 18-inch wheels.
- Heated Front Seats and Steering Wheel: Cold mornings are easier with heated seats and a heated steering wheel—features missing from base models.
- Remote Start System: You can start your Jeep from inside your house, so it’s warm before you get in. This is a favorite for anyone who hates scraping icy windows.
- All-Weather Floor Mats: These protect the carpet from snow, slush, and salt, making it easier to keep your Jeep clean in the winter.
- Tow Hooks and Skid Plates: Useful if you need to pull someone out of a ditch or protect the underbody from snow-covered obstacles.
- Uconnect 4C NAV with 8.4-Inch Touchscreen: This infotainment system includes navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, making trips easier in bad weather.
- Unique Badging: “North Edition” badges on the exterior show you’ve got a special winter-ready Jeep.
North Edition Vs. Other Grand Cherokee Trims
To see where the North Edition stands, let’s look at how it compares to two other popular trims.
| Feature | Laredo | North Edition | Limited |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drive System | RWD or 4×4 | 4×4 (Quadra-Trac I) | RWD or 4×4 |
| Heated Seats | Optional | Standard | Standard |
| Remote Start | No | Yes | Yes |
| All-Terrain Tires | No | Yes | No |
| All-Weather Mats | No | Yes | No |
The North Edition is closest to the Laredo but adds more winter-focused features. Compared to the Limited, it includes a few items (like skid plates and tow hooks) that are not standard on the Limited trim.
Who Should Consider The North Edition?
If you live in a place with real winters—think snow, ice, and freezing temperatures—the North Edition is a smart pick. It’s also a good choice for people who:
- Drive to ski resorts or mountain cabins
- Need a reliable SUV for work during winter storms
- Value comfort in cold weather
One insight many buyers miss: The North Edition’s upgrades are not just for deep snow. Features like all-weather mats and heated steering wheel make everyday winter driving less of a hassle, even in city traffic.
Performance In Winter Conditions
The Grand Cherokee is already known for off-road strength. The North Edition takes it further by focusing on cold-weather details. Here’s how it helps in winter:
- Four-wheel drive boosts control on slippery roads.
- Heated mirrors clear off frost quickly, improving visibility.
- Remote start means you’re not shivering while waiting for the heat to kick in.
In independent tests, Grand Cherokees with the North Edition package showed improved grip and braking on snowy roads compared to regular all-season setups. While it’s not a substitute for true winter tires, it’s a big step up from most standard SUVs.
Comfort And Technology
Inside, the North Edition feels well-equipped. The Uconnect 4C NAV system is easy to use, with quick response times and a clear display. The seats are comfortable and supportive for longer drives.
A non-obvious detail: The heated steering wheel is more useful than many buyers expect. On freezing mornings, it warms up in seconds, making the first minutes of your drive much more pleasant.
Price And Value
The North Edition is priced between the Laredo and Limited trims. Here’s a general price comparison (prices can vary by location and year):
| Model | Starting MSRP (USD) |
|---|---|
| Grand Cherokee Laredo | $36,000 |
| Grand Cherokee North Edition | $39,000 |
| Grand Cherokee Limited | $43,000 |
For many buyers, the extra features are worth the slight price bump. The North Edition brings comfort and safety upgrades that can make a real difference in winter, without jumping to the highest trim levels.
Common Buyer Mistakes
Some shoppers overlook the North Edition, thinking it’s just cosmetic. In reality, features like skid plates and all-weather mats are practical for anyone dealing with messy, icy roads. Another mistake: assuming all Grand Cherokees are equally good in winter. The North Edition’s standard 4×4 and cold-weather options are not found on every trim.
If you’re comparing used models, confirm the North Edition package is included. Some dealers may list a regular Laredo with a few options, but it won’t have all the North Edition upgrades.
Should You Choose The North Edition?
If you want a Jeep Grand Cherokee that’s ready for winter, the North Edition is one of the best values. It combines the rugged capability Jeep is known for with practical, comfort-focused features for cold weather.
It isn’t the most luxurious or the cheapest trim, but for drivers who need confidence when the temperature drops, it’s a smart investment.
For more details, check the official Jeep Grand Cherokee page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Engine Comes With The Grand Cherokee North Edition?
The North Edition typically comes with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This engine offers a good mix of power and efficiency, with 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
Is The North Edition Available Every Year?
No, the North Edition is a special package, so availability can change by model year and location. It was first offered in 2020 and may not be in every dealership’s inventory.
Does The North Edition Have Third-row Seating?
No, the standard Grand Cherokee, including the North Edition, has two rows of seats and fits up to five passengers. If you want three rows, look for the Grand Cherokee L.
Can You Add The North Edition Package To Other Trims?
The North Edition is based on the Laredo trim. It’s not a standalone add-on for higher trims like the Limited or Overland.
Is The North Edition Good For Off-roading?
Yes, it has skid plates, tow hooks, and Jeep’s 4×4 system. While not as extreme as the Trailhawk, it handles snow, mud, and rough trails better than most SUVs in its class.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee North Edition is designed with winter in mind. If you need an SUV that works as hard as you do in the cold, this special trim is worth a closer look.
