2020 Jeep Cherokee Towing Capacity & Payload Guide

The 2020 Jeep Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped with the 3.2-liter V6 engine and the factory Trailer Tow Group. Unlike many compact crossovers in its segment that max out at 1,500 to 3,500 pounds, the Cherokee offers robust utility for those needing to pull small boats, pop-up campers, or utility trailers, provided you choose the right engine and package combination.

Quick answer

Here is a rapid breakdown of the maximum capacities and weight ratings for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee. Keep in mind that exact numbers vary significantly based on your specific engine, drivetrain (FWD vs. 4x4), and trim level. Always verify your specific vehicle's ratings on the driver's side door-jamb sticker.

• Max Towing Capacity: 4,500 lbs (with 3.2L V6 and Trailer Tow Group)
• Max Payload Capacity: 1,000 lbs to 1,250 lbs (trim dependent)
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 5,050 lbs to 5,500 lbs
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): Up to 9,000 lbs
• Curb Weight: 3,590 lbs to 4,250 lbs (Trailhawk models are the heaviest)
• Hitch Class: Class III (when equipped with factory Tow Group)
• Max Tongue Weight: Up to 450 lbs (10% of max tow capacity)

Tow ratings by engine & trim

The 2020 Jeep Cherokee adheres to SAE J2807 towing standards, meaning its testing procedures for braking, acceleration, and thermal limits are highly standardized and strictly verified. If your Cherokee does not have the factory Trailer Tow Group, your towing capacity is strictly limited to 2,000 pounds across all engine options.

Tow package contents

To achieve the 4,000- or 4,500-pound maximum towing threshold, your 2020 Jeep Cherokee must be equipped with the factory Trailer Tow Group. Bolting an aftermarket hitch to a base V6 Cherokee does not increase your capacity to 4,500 pounds because you will lack the critical cooling upgrades required to protect the drivetrain.

The Jeep Cherokee Trailer Tow Group includes:

• Class III Hitch Receiver: Directly integrated into the rear bumper fascia.
• 7-Pin and 4-Pin Wiring Harness: Ready for trailers with or without trailer brakes.
• Heavy-Duty Engine Cooling: A larger radiator fan and improved engine cooling capacity.
• Auxiliary Transmission Oil Cooler: Essential for keeping the 9-speed automatic transmission temperatures in check on grades.
• Full-Size Spare Tire: Replacing the standard space-saver or tire-repair kit.
• Trailer Sway Damping: Integrated into the Cherokee’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system to automatically apply individual brakes and reduce engine power if trailer sway is detected. (Note: An integrated trailer brake controller is not included from the factory and must be added via the aftermarket if your trailer has electric brakes).

5th-wheel & gooseneck

Because the 2020 Jeep Cherokee is a compact unibody crossover SUV and not a heavy-duty (HD) pickup truck, 5th-wheel and gooseneck towing are entirely inapplicable and impossible. Do not attempt to mount any such hitch hardware in this vehicle.

Weight distribution & WDH requirements

For conventional towing, Jeep recommends the use of a Weight Distributing Hitch (WDH) if you are towing a trailer that exceeds 3,500 pounds. While the Cherokee has an impressive max rating of 4,500 lbs, pulling a trailer that heavy on a relatively short wheelbase (106.5 inches) can induce rear-end sag, unloading the front steering axle. A WDH restores steering feel, braking balance, and headlights to their proper alignment.

Additionally, trailers weighing over 1,000 pounds should generally be equipped with their own independent braking system (surge brakes or electric brakes) to minimize stopping distance and reduce wear on the Cherokee's braking system.

Real-world towing tips for this vehicle

• Watch your Payload: Max towing and max payload cannot happen simultaneously. If you have a 4,500 lb trailer with 450 lbs of tongue weight, that 450 lbs is subtracted directly from your payload. If your payload limit is 1,050 lbs, you only have 600 lbs remaining for passengers, cargo, and aftermarket accessories.
• Monitor Transmission Temps: Utilize the digital dashboard to keep an eye on transmission temperatures when towing up steep grades. The 9-speed automatic can run hot if pushed past its limits.
• Use the Right Mode: If you have an Active Drive II or Active Drive Lock 4x4 system, locking the drivetrain in tricky, low-speed maneuvers (like pulling a boat up a slippery ramp) can save excessive strain on the torque converter.

Common towing-related issues

One of the most common issues reported by owners towing with the 2020 Cherokee is rapid rear suspension wear or bottoming out when ignoring tongue weight limits. Furthermore, failure to install an aftermarket electronic brake controller for heavier trailers leads to accelerated brake pad and rotor wear. Keep a strict maintenance schedule for the transmission fluid if you tow frequently, as extreme heat breaks down the fluid much faster than standard commuting.

Always confirm your vehicle's safe limits before hooking up a trailer. When it’s time to install a brake controller or service your transmission, find a trusted shop on Repairius.