The 2021 Jeep lineup includes several Rubicon models that offer impressive off-road capability but have differing towing capacities. Being familiar with how much weight these iconic off-roaders can safely pull can help you select the right Jeep to meet your lifestyle needs.
This article will provide a detailed overview of the key specs and tow ratings for the various 2021 Rubicon models across the Jeep brand. We’ll cover towing capacities, engine options, drivetrain configurations and other factors that influence trailering.
Whether you need to haul camping gear into the backcountry or pull a boat to the lake, understanding the towing capabilities of each Jeep Rubicon model is an important part of choosing the right adventure-ready 4×4.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Towing Capacity
The most iconic and capable Jeep Wrangler Rubicon trim offers impressive off-road prowess but limited towing capacity compared to other Jeep models. Here are the key towing specs:
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2,000 pounds maximum towing capacity – This lower rating is due to the solid front and rear axles that give the Wrangler its renowned off-road performance.
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3.6L Pentastar V6 engine – The standard engine on the 2021 Wrangler Rubicon produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Optional is a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder rated at 270 hp and 295 lb-ft.
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6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission – The Wrangler Rubicon offers the choice between a smooth-shifting automatic or a traditional manual gearbox.
The Wrangler Rubicon is built for the trail versus heavy towing. Its shorter wheelbase, solid axles and lighter-duty components create an optimal configuration for tackling tough terrain at slow speeds, not for pulling heavy loads at highway speeds.
Towing capacity is limited to light-duty trailers, small campers or light watercraft. Heavier boat or RV towing requires stepping up to a different Jeep model.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon Towing Capacity
The 4-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon provides added cargo room and rear seat space while retaining impressive off-road credentials and offering increased towing capacity:
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3,500 pounds maximum towing capacity – The Unlimited’s longer wheelbase and chassis improvements allow it to handle 500 more pounds than the 2-door Wrangler.
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Same 3.6L V6 or 2.0L turbo-4 engine options – Powerplant configurations on the Unlimited Rubicon are identical to the standard Wrangler Rubicon.
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Upgraded Dana 44 heavy-duty axles – Front and rear axles are reinforced for greater durability when towing heavier loads.
The added stability, longer frame and robust axles give the Unlimited more towing muscle while retaining the Wrangler’s legendary 4×4 prowess. It can manage a wider range of camping trailers and boats but is still best suited for light-duty towing applications.
2021 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon Towing Capacity
As Jeep’s pickup truck entry, the Gladiator Rubicon offers crew cab space and a 5-foot cargo bed while delivering impressive off-road capability and the highest tow rating in the Jeep lineup:
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4,500 pounds maximum towing capacity – Strong frame, firm suspension tuning and an available Max Tow package optimize the Gladiator for heavier trailering duties.
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Standard 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine – Rated at 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, the Gladiator’s V6 provides robust low-end power for towing. A 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 producing 260 hp and 442 lb-ft is optional.
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8-speed automatic transmission – The Gladiator’s TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission efficiently manages gearing for optimal performance when towing.
The Gladiator Rubicon’s body-on-frame construction, upgraded rear axle and dedicated towing package enable pulling heavier boats, ATVs and campers that exceed the Wrangler’s capacities. Diesel power further enhances torque output for confident trailering.
How Jeep Powertrains Influence Towing Capacities
Several factors related to Jeep’s available engines and drivetrain configurations impact how much weight Rubicon models can safely pull:
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Torque output – Higher torque translates to greater towing muscle. Diesel engines like the EcoDiesel V6 produce peak torque at lower rpm for enhanced pulling power.
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Gearing – The transmission and rear axle ratio tune mechanical leverage to enable managing heavier loads. Lower ratios provide more torque multiplication.
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Drivetrain design – A unibody crossover like the Cherokee is more optimal for towing than a traditional body-on-frame SUV like the Wrangler due to chassis integration.
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Suspension tuning – Stiffer shocks and springs ensure greater stability when towing and prevent excessive sagging.
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** Braking capacity** – Upgraded brake discs, calipers and pads improve stopping power under heavy loads.
Understanding these elements provides insight into why tow ratings vary across Jeep trims and help select models suited to your needs.
Towing Packages for Increased Capacity
Available towing packages can enhance certain Jeep models’ pulling power beyond their standard capacities:
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Max Tow Package – This Gladiator option includes a heavier-duty rear axle, 4.10 gearing, extra engine cooling and a trailer brake controller. It increases towing capacity from 4,500 to 7,650 pounds.
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Heavy-Duty Electrical Group – This package for the Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon adds a higher-output alternator, 700-amp battery and auxiliary switches for powering additional accessories.
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Trailer Tow and HD Electrical Package – Cherokee models equipped with the trailering package gain a 4-pin wiring harness, transmission fluid cooler, heavy-duty radiator and 240-amp alternator.
Consult your dealer to check if increased towing packages are offered for your desired Jeep model and trim configuration. They can significantly boost trailering abilities.
Towing Capacities by 2021 Jeep Rubicon Model
This overview summarizes the maximum conventional towing capacities across the 2021 Jeep Rubicon lineup:
2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
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2,000 pounds capacity
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3.6L V6 or 2.0L turbo-4 engine
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6-speed manual or 8-speed auto transmission
2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon
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3,500 pounds capacity
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3.6L V6 or 2.0L turbo-4 engine
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8-speed automatic transmission
2021 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
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4,500 pounds capacity
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3.6L V6 or 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel engine
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8-speed automatic transmission
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk
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6,200 pounds capacity
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5.7L V8 Hemi engine
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8-speed automatic transmission
Key Takeaways on Jeep Rubicon Towing
Reviewing the tow rating specifics of the different Jeep Rubicon models provides helpful guidance:
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The iconic Jeep Wrangler offers the lowest towing capacity but highest off-road aptitude.
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The Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon provides a modest increase for light-duty trailering needs.
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For maxing towing muscle, the Gladiator pickup offers the most capability.
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Towing packages can enhance certain models’ capacities further.
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Engine power, transmission gearing and chassis design influence tow ratings.
Understanding these towing capacities helps narrow down choices to the optimal Jeep Rubicon for your priorities. A dealership expert can also provide additional guidance to match the right model to your lifestyle needs.
Whether you seek a highly capable but compact 4×4, need to pull small recreational gear into the backcountry or want to transport larger boats and toys, the 2021 Jeep Rubicon family offers a range of options. Consider your intended towing requirements carefully along with off-road performance needs to select the perfect Jeep for your next adventure.
