The Jeep Wrangler is an icon of off-road capability and rugged style. For 2020, the Wrangler Unlimited models deliver best-in-class towing capacities of up to 3,500 pounds – plenty of power for hauling camping trailers, boats, ATVs and more gear to your next adventure.
At Antich Automotive, we’re experts on Jeep Wrangler specs, capabilities and real-world performance. In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the 2020 Wrangler Unlimited’s towing capacities, features and options to help you make an informed buying decision.
Overview of the 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
The four-door 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is available in three trim levels:
- Sport
- Sahara
- Rubicon
All three models come standard with a 3.6L V6 Pentastar engine mated to either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission.
Two 4×4 systems are offered:
- Command-Trac – Standard on Sport and Sahara
- Rock-Trac – Standard on Rubicon
The Wrangler Unlimited delivers excellent off-road capability courtesy of its solid axles, high ground clearance, heavy duty shocks and available front and rear locking differentials.
On the road, the 2020 Unlimited provides a smooth, comfortable ride with surprisingly nimble handling for a boxy 4×4. The cabin is roomy and functional, offering clever storage solutions and available luxury features.
2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Towing Capacity
The 2020 Wrangler Unlimited has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs when properly equipped. This allows you to haul small-to-midsize trailers, boats, ATVs and UTVs to your favorite campsites, lakes and trails.
Towing capacity remains identical across all three Unlimited trim levels:
- 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport – 3,500 lbs
- 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara – 3,500 lbs
- 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon – 3,500 lbs
With 350 lb-ft of torque from the standard 3.6L V6, the Unlimited delivers plenty of low-end grunt for pulling away from a standstill and maintaining speed on grades.
The Pentastar V6 is rated at 285 horsepower in the Wrangler Unlimited. While not hugely powerful by modern standards, this versatile engine offers a great balance of around-town drivability and towing capability.
What You Need for Max Towing
To achieve the Unlimited’s 3,500 lb max tow rating, your Wrangler must be equipped with:
- 3.6L V6 engine
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Trailer tow package
Engine
The standard 3.6L Pentastar V6 comes optimized from the factory for trailer towing. Key features include:
- 285 horsepower
- 260 lb-ft of torque
- Variable valve timing
- Engine oil cooler
- 800-amp battery
This smooth, modern V6 has plenty of low-rpm torque for pulling heavy loads. Combined with the 8-speed automatic, it offers seamless shifting and power delivery.
Transmission
The 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic is required to reach 3,500 lbs of towing capacity. This transmission offers key benefits:
- Efficient gear spacing optimizes the V6’s torque band
- Locking torque converter improves power transfer
- Larger final drive ratio increases torque multiplication
The 8-speed auto works intelligently, selecting the right gear for the conditions. It also enables “tow/haul” mode for improved performance when a trailer is connected.
Trailer Tow Package
This factory option equips your Wrangler Unlimited with the necessary hardware for heavier towing:
- Class II receiver hitch
- 4-pin trailer wiring harness
- Engine oil cooler
- Trailer sway control software
- Heavy duty suspension springs
- Upgraded rear axle gearing
With the hitch receiver, wiring and cooler, it’s plug-and-play easy to connect and tow your trailer. Sway control uses individual wheel braking to stabilize the load, while heavy springs maintain level ride height.
Note: a 7-pin adapter is required to connect trailers with electric brakes.
Towing Features and Tech
Towing a trailer or gear behind your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is made safer and easier thanks to these available technologies:
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Blind spot monitoring – alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot when changing lanes with a trailer attached.
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Rear cross path detection – senses objects behind the vehicle when backing up to hitch a trailer. Applies the brakes automatically if an object is detected.
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ParkSense rear park assist – sounds an audible warning if obstacles are detected behind the vehicle while reversing with a trailer.
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Back up camera – displays a live video feed of the area behind the Jeep when reversing, with available trailer hitch zoom function. Provides invaluable visibility when backing a trailer.
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Trailer sway control – uses selective braking to counteract trailer sway if it begins to occur, enabling safer towing. Engages automatically when needed.
These advanced driver aids take the stress out of maneuvering a hitched trailer in tight spaces, merging with traffic and traveling at highway speeds.
Towing Capacity By Wrangler Unlimited Trim Level
While all three Unlimited models share the same 3,500 lb max tow rating when properly equipped, their standard features and pricing differ significantly.
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport
Base price: $31,795
Standard features:
- 3.6L V6 engine
- Command-Trac 4×4 system
- Dana 30/35 axles
- 6-speed manual transmission
- 17″ steel wheels
- Cloth seats
- 5″ Uconnect touchscreen
- Keyless entry
With the standard powertrain, transmission and basic features, the Unlimited Sport provides excellent value for the trail or work site. Add the trailer tow package to unlock the 3,500 lb towing capacity for hauling recreational gear.
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara
Base price: $40,140
Adds over Sport:
- Body-color fender flares
- 18″ alloy wheels
- Leather-trimmed seats
- Power windows/locks
- Automatic climate control
- 7″ Uconnect touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
The well-equipped Sahara balances capability with comfort. The luxurious interior and family-friendly technology make it easy to live with as a daily driver. Upgrade to the 8-speed auto and tow package to maximize towing abilities.
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon
Base price: $43,875
Adds over Sahara:
- Rock-Trac 4×4 system
- Dana 44 axles
- Front and rear locking differentials
- Off-road suspension lift
- 33″ mud terrain tires
- Steel bumpers
- Rock rails
- Hill descent control
The hardcore off-roader Rubicon doubles down on trail toughness with its upgraded drivetrain and aggressive tires. While pricey, it’s the undisputed king of off-roading in the Jeep lineup. Like other Unlimited models, add the 8-speed auto and tow package to unlock 3,500 lbs.
Is the Wrangler Unlimited Right for You?
The 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is tremendously capable both on-road and off. Its excellent towing capacity of up to 3,500 lbs allows you to bring extra gear along on any adventure.
For moderate recreational towing, the Unlimited cannot be beaten – especially when you factor in its fun-to-drive personality, iconic style and open-air freedom. Shoppers needing to regularly tow heavier 5,000+ lb loads should look at a full-size SUV or pickup truck.
Here at Antich Automotive, we’re passionate experts on Jeep capabilities. If you have any questions about the Wrangler Unlimited’s towing capacities, available equipment or real-world performance, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to share our knowledge and help you select the perfect Jeep for your needs.
