'15 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE AND TRAILER COMPATIBLE?

[bobka7914]

Need your input and recommendation: Contemplating purchasing a TV and TT... In your opinion, do you think a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee (3.6-liter V-6 290 hp, 260 ft torque) with a 6200 lb tow capacity can safely and adequately pull a travel trailer weighing 4200 lb dry/optioned out, approx 5100 wet?

[Chucknbob]

Yeah, you'll be able to pull that. I agree with the others, you may be happier with a v8, but there's no reason why the pentastar and 8 speed won't be able to handle that. It is a very impressive motor/tranny combination.

However, please keep in mind it likely won't come with a trailer brake controller. You MUST have that installed to pull your camper safely. The dealer can install a very nice controller designed for the Grand Cherokee that will be covered under warranty.

[dadmomh]

6200 capacity/5100# wet (GVWR??) is cutting it pretty close. The question is not CAN you, but SHOULD you. Agree that if the budget allows, opt for the beefier version. Too many have cut it close and found very soon that they needed to make a move up....cost them more in the long run.

[Bionic_Man]

If you were towing a lot, I would option for the V8 or 3.0 ED. If not, the 3.6 V6 is a good engine with more HP and equal torque to V8s of just a few years back.

And I don't think comparing a 10 year old SUV that is another brand to a new Grand Cherokee is a fair comparison. Aside from the new technology that the Jeep has, they also have always been superior tow vehicles vs most other SUVs.

Either way, if you already have the trailer, it woudl be a good idea to take it for a test drive towing before you commit.

[All_I_could_aff]

I'm not saying it can't or shouldn't, but keep in mind max tow rating will likely have that motor screaming toward redline on routine acceleration, relatively short wheelbase hinders highway stability, and any people and cargo in Jeep takes away from rear axle capcity available for tounge weight.
Just as an example, I have a 2006 ford explorer V6 full frame, 114 inch wheelbase, and tow a single axle Hybrid that typically weighs 3,200 lbs LOADED. That brings my combined weight with wife, 3 kids, and stuff to about 9,500 lbs confirmed by scale. Believe me, even with properly adjusted sway control I rarely take it over 55 mph except for brief moments getting around a situation. I certainly wish I had a little more truck at those times

[APT]

That's probably ok. The 8-spd can really make use of the V6 power. Expect engine specs in the 2500-30000 cruising on the highway and 5000+ accelerating and up hills. The engine won't care, but some passengers do.

If you can afford it, I highly recommend at least the V8. You'll have 50% more torque, which means it can purr along closer to 2000rpm and seldom need to exceed 3000rpm. Most people are happier with that.