The Jeep Cherokee has built a solid reputation among Canadian drivers as a versatile, compact SUV that delivers both comfort and off-road capability. But what about its towing capacity? Whether you’re hauling a small trailer in British Columbia, towing a snowmobile in Quebec, or taking a summer road trip with a utility trailer through Ontario, understanding the towing capability of the 2025 Jeep Cherokee is essential.
Limited Time Automotive Amazon DealsIn this article, we’ll explore the Cherokee’s engine options, towing capacities by trim, recommended towing accessories, and how it stacks up to competitors in Canada.
Overview: Jeep Cherokee’s Role in the Canadian Market
The Jeep Cherokee bridges the gap between smaller crossovers like the Compass and larger options like the Grand Cherokee. It offers available 4×4 systems, rugged styling, and trail-rated trims like the Trailhawk, all while maintaining everyday drivability.
Limited Time Automotive Amazon DealsFor many Canadians, the Cherokee is appealing due to:
- 4-season capability (AWD/4WD systems)
- Comfortable interior for long drives
- Compact size suitable for urban and rural areas alike
- Respectable towing capacity in its class
2025 Jeep Cherokee Engine Options & Towing Capacity
As of the 2025 model year, the Jeep Cherokee is offered with two primary engine options in Canada. Towing capacity varies based on engine and drivetrain selection.
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Max Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L Tigershark I4 | 180 hp | 171 lb-ft | 2,000 lbs |
| 2.0L Turbocharged I4 | 270 hp | 295 lb-ft | 4,000 lbs |
1. 2.4L Tigershark I4 – Up to 2,000 lbs Towing
- Standard on base models like the Cherokee Altitude.
- Suitable for light-duty towing: small utility trailers, lawn equipment, single dirt bike, or light camping gear.
- Ideal for casual users in cities like Toronto or Vancouver where heavy-duty towing is rare.
2. 2.0L Turbocharged I4 – Up to 4,000 lbs Towing
- Optional or standard on higher trims, including the Trailhawk and Limited.
- Excellent for towing mid-size boats, two-axle trailers, or ATVs.
- Comes with a 9-speed automatic transmission and active drive lock 4×4 on Trailhawk for off-road towing confidence.
2025 Jeep Cherokee Towing Capacity by Trim (Canada)
| Trim Level | Engine | Drivetrain | Max Towing (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altitude | 2.4L I4 | FWD or AWD | 2,000 |
| Altitude Lux | 2.0L Turbo I4 | AWD | 4,000 |
| Limited | 2.0L Turbo I4 | AWD | 4,000 |
| Trailhawk | 2.0L Turbo I4 | 4×4 (Active Drive Lock) | 4,000 |
Note: These are max capacities with proper towing equipment installed.
Towing Package: What You Need
To achieve the maximum 4,000 lbs towing capacity, the Cherokee must be equipped with the available Trailer Tow Group. This package includes:
- Class III hitch receiver
- Wiring harness with 4- and 7-pin connectors
- Auxiliary transmission oil cooler
- Upgraded engine cooling
Availability: The Trailer Tow Group is available on the Altitude Lux, Limited, and Trailhawk trims in Canada.
Real-World Towing Scenarios for Canadians
Example 1: Hauling a Small Travel Trailer
- Weight: ~3,500 lbs (dry)
- Suitable for: Cherokee with 2.0L turbo + towing package
- Ideal for: Long summer road trips through Alberta or Ontario
Example 2: Towing Two ATVs on a Trailer
- Combined weight: ~2,500–3,000 lbs
- Suitable for: Any trim with 2.0L turbo and tow package
- Ideal for: Off-road enthusiasts in Saskatchewan, Quebec, or the BC interior
Example 3: Pulling a Snowmobile in Winter
- Weight: ~1,500–2,000 lbs (with trailer)
- Suitable for: Base 2.4L engine with optional AWD
- Ideal for: Winter riders in Manitoba, Quebec, or Newfoundland
How the Cherokee Compares to Rivals in Canada
| Model | Max Towing Capacity | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Cherokee | 4,000 lbs | Off-road trims, turbocharged engine |
| Toyota RAV4 | 3,500 lbs (Adventure/TRD) | Excellent resale, hybrid options |
| Honda CR-V | 1,500 lbs | Spacious cabin, fuel economy |
| Ford Escape | 3,500 lbs (AWD 2.0L) | Tech-forward design, hybrid available |
| Subaru Forester | 1,500 lbs | Symmetrical AWD, off-road assist |
The Jeep Cherokee leads its segment in towing, especially with the 2.0L turbo engine, making it a solid pick for Canadians who need compact utility without moving up to a full-size SUV.
Canadian Considerations for Towing
1. Winter Towing
- Use winter-rated tires (not all-seasons) for grip on icy roads.
- Install brake controllers if towing heavy trailers in snowy conditions.
2. Licensing
In most provinces, including Ontario, Alberta, and BC, no special license is required for towing under 4,600 kg (10,000 lbs) combined vehicle and trailer weight. However, exceeding your vehicle’s rated capacity voids warranty and is legally unsafe.
3. Fuel Economy While Towing
- Cherokee 2.0L Turbo (unloaded): ~10.5 L/100km combined
- While towing: expect ~13–15 L/100km depending on terrain and load
Final Thoughts: Is the Jeep Cherokee Right for You?
If you’re a Canadian driver looking for a compact SUV with above-average towing capacity, the 2025 Jeep Cherokee is a top-tier option. With the right configuration, it comfortably tows up to 4,000 lbs—more than most of its competitors in the segment.
Pros:
✅ Best-in-class towing (with turbo engine)
✅ Available AWD and 4×4 options
✅ Off-road Trailhawk trim with Active Drive Lock
✅ Towing package supports real-world trailering needs
Cons:
❌ Base engine is underwhelming for towing
❌ Fuel economy drops when towing
❌ Less cargo space than some rivals
Ready to Tow?
If you’re considering a 2025 Jeep Cherokee, make sure to:
- Confirm engine and tow package availability
- Check your trailer’s gross weight
- Account for payload, passengers, and gear
Interested in test driving or customizing your Cherokee in Canada? Visit your local Jeep dealership or browse Jeep Canada’s website to configure your trim and towing options.