The 2023 Jeep Cherokee delivers best-in-class towing capacity1 of up to 4,000 pounds when properly equipped. This versatile SUV provides the power and capability to tow boats, ATVs, campers, horse trailers, and much more while maintaining Jeep’s legendary off-road performance.
As an automotive expert, I am excited to showcase the Cherokee’s impressive towing abilities. In this article, we will cover:
- Key Features That Enable Robust Towing
- Under the Hood: Engine and Drivetrain Specs
- Towing Capacity and Package Details
- How It Compares to Key Competitors
- Tips for Safe and Successful Towing
Let’s dive in and explore why the 2023 Cherokee isbuilt for both adventure and towing utility.
Built for Serious Towing
The Cherokee has always offered nimble handling and off-road capability. For 2023, Jeep looked to maximize towing muscle while retaining the Cherokee’s athletic DNA.
Here are some of the key features that enable robust towing:
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Available 2.0L Turbo Engine – This punchy turbocharged engine churns out 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, giving the Cherokee impressive acceleration when towing. The turbo engine comes standard on the Trailhawk trim.
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9-Speed Automatic Transmission – Smooth, rapid gear changes help the Cherokee leverage its powerband when towing up inclines or at highway speeds.
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Upgraded Towing Package – The available Class III tow hitch receiver, 4-pin wiring harness, and heavy-duty engine cooling allow the Cherokee to confidently tow up to 4,000 pounds.
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All-Wheel Drive – Jeep’s renowned 4×4 systems supply traction and control on slick boat ramps and loose terrain. Both available systems have an active transfer case to seamlessly transition between 2WD and 4WD.
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Selectable Drive Modes – Auto, Snow, Sport, and Sand/Mud modes let you tailor the Cherokee’s transmission, traction control, and drivetrain for optimized towing performance in any condition.
The Cherokee boasts robust unibody architecture and a low center of gravity for stability under load. Upgraded suspension damping prevents squat when accelerating and sway when stopping.
Let’s look under the hood to better understand how this compact SUV achieves such mighty tow ratings.
Engine & Drivetrain Specs: Where the Power Comes From
The 2023 Jeep Cherokee offers two engine choices:
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2.4L Tigershark® 4-Cylinder – This 16-valve motor produces 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. The 2.4L allows the Cherokee to tow up to 2,000 pounds.
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2.0L Hurricane Turbo 4-Cylinder – This powerplant cranks out 270 hp and 295 lb-ft. It is standard on Trailhawk models and enables max towing capacities.
Both engines pair with a 9-speed automatic transmission and either rear-wheel drive or one of two available 4×4 systems:
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Jeep Active Drive I – This system has an automatic full-time all-wheel drive mode for enhanced traction in all conditions. No driver input is required.
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Jeep Active Drive Lock – Adds a locking rear differential and low-range gearing for serious off-roading. Low range provides additional torque when towing up steep boat ramps or grades.
Next let’s look at how these mechanicals translate into real-world towing performance.
Towing Capacity, Packages & Pricing
When properly equipped with the available Class III tow package, the 2023 Cherokee provides a max tow rating of 4,000 pounds. Here are the key tow package components:
- Heavy-duty engine radiator and transmission oil cooler
- Class III hitch receiver
- 4-pin trailer wiring harness
- Trailer sway damping
This robust tow package is available on all Cherokee trims when you choose the 2.0L turbo engine. On the Cherokee Limited and Trailhawk, the package is priced at a reasonable $995. You can also add a trailer brake controller for $295.
So what can you tow with the decked-out Cherokee? Here are some examples:
- Small fishing boats up to 21 feet
- 2-3 person ATVs or jet skis
- Small camping trailers around 3,500 pounds
- 2- to 3-horse tag-along trailers
While max capacity is 4,000 pounds, I recommend keeping your loaded trailer weight around 3,500 pounds for optimal handling and braking. And be sure to use a weight-distributing hitch for better stability under load.
How the Cherokee Compares to Key Competitors
The Cherokee stands atop the midsize SUV segment when it comes to towing. Here’s how it stacks up against key rivals:
| SUV Model | Max Towing Capacity |
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