2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Are They Good in Snow and Ice Conditions?
There’s a certain peace of mind that comes from knowing your SUV can handle whatever winter throws at it, whether it’s a surprise blizzard or an icy commute.
If you’re looking at a used 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee and wondering how it handles the worst winter weather, the short answer is: Yes, it’s a beast in the snow. But let’s get into the details so you know exactly why. Real-world owner experiences and the SUV’s built-in tech paint a clear picture of a vehicle that’s ready for winter.
TL;DR
The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee is highly capable in snow and ice, thanks to its sophisticated 4×4 systems and available winter-focused features. Its Quadra-Trac and Quadra-Drive systems provide excellent traction, while the Selec-Terrain system lets you dial in the perfect settings for snowy roads. A huge factor in its winter performance is having the right tires, and the 2020 model year even offered a “North Edition” package that added cold-weather goodies straight from the factory. For drivers in snowy states, it’s a dependable and confidence-inspiring SUV.
Key Takeaways
- The 2020 Grand Cherokee features advanced 4×4 systems like Quadra-Trac I, II, and Quadra-Drive II, which are designed to maximize grip on slippery surfaces.
- The Selec-Terrain Traction Management System has a specific “Snow” mode that adjusts power delivery for better handling in winter conditions.
- Tire choice is critical; owners report that equipping the Grand Cherokee with proper winter or all-season tires makes a dramatic difference in snow and slush.
- The 2020 model year introduced a factory “North Edition” package that added features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, remote start, and all-weather floor mats to make winter driving more comfortable.
The Secret to Its Snow Prowess: The 4×4 Systems
The real magic of the 2020 Grand Cherokee lies under the hood, in its legendary four-wheel-drive systems. Jeep offers a few different options, and understanding them helps explain why the Grand Cherokee is so confident in the snow.
The foundation of its capability is the available Quadra-Trac I® and Quadra-Trac II® 4WD systems. At its core, this system automatically transfers power to the wheels that have the most grip. But it’s the Quadra-Drive II® system with a rear Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (ELSD) that makes a huge difference. This system can send up to 100% of the engine’s torque to a single wheel if all the others are slipping. Imagine one wheel on ice and the rest on pavement—this tech ensures you’re not stuck.
To make it even simpler for the driver, the 2020 Grand Cherokee comes with the Selec-Terrain® Traction Control System. This is a fancy name for a dial that lets you choose from up to five different driving modes. These include settings for Auto, Sport, Mud/Sand, and, most importantly for us, Snow. When you select “Snow” mode, it automatically adjusts the throttle response, transmission shifting, and torque distribution to help you pull away smoothly and maintain control on slippery, slush-covered roads.
Real-World Snow Experience: From the Driver’s Seat
All the tech in the world is great, but how does it actually feel on a snowy Tuesday morning? According to owners, it feels pretty fantastic. One Michigan commuter noted that with Michelin Defender tires, the Grand Cherokee was a “beast in the snow, slush and rain,” giving them far more “safety reassurance” than they expected.
Another owner shared a truly harrowing story of driving from Washington to Colorado during a blizzard. While other cars were spinning out and trucks were blowing off the road on I-80 in Wyoming, the 2020 Grand Cherokee held its ground. The driver recalled having to swerve around a spinning car on an “ice arena” of a highway, accelerating to avoid a massive pileup that closed the road again. They were “thankful for the grip the Jeep had even on the ice”. That’s the kind of confidence this SUV can provide.
Even the high-performance models, like the Trackhawk with its supercharged V8, are described as “winter weapons” when equipped with proper Pirelli winter tires. While you have to be careful with the throttle to manage the 707 horsepower, the AWD system and Brembo brakes are more than capable of keeping things safe.
The 2020 North Edition: A Winter-Ready Package
It’s worth mentioning that Jeep recognized the Grand Cherokee’s winter prowess and made it even easier for buyers in 2020 with the introduction of the North Edition package. This was available on the Grand Cherokee Laredo trim and added several features that make winter a whole lot more pleasant.
The package included:
- Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel: Your hands and back will thank you on a cold morning.
- Remote start system: Warm the car up from inside your house before you even step out.
- All-weather floor mats: Perfect for catching the slush and salt that would otherwise ruin your carpets.
- Front tow hooks: A practical touch for snowy emergencies, making it easier to be pulled out or help a friend.
This package shows that Jeep was thinking about winter drivers and provides a great option if you’re looking at a used 2020 model.
Why Tires Are the Real Hero
It’s impossible to talk about winter driving without emphasizing this point: The 2020 Grand Cherokee is a snow machine, but only if you have the right shoes.
One owner summed it up perfectly: “The snow 4×4 features combined with these tires make this a beast in the snow.” The Grand Cherokee’s 4×4 system provides the power distribution, but the tires are what give you the grip to stop, turn, and accelerate.
If you’re buying one, a tip is to check for a set of severe snow service-rated (the mountain snowflake symbol) tires, or invest in a good set of winter tires. Don’t try to brave a Canadian winter on worn-out all-seasons, no matter how good the 4×4 system is. On that note, a journalist noted that driving a Trackhawk through a snowstorm was a success because it was on Pirelli Scorpion Winter tires, proving that the combination of AWD and a good set of winters is a winning formula.
Snow Comparison: 2020 Grand Cherokee vs. Key Competitors
How does the 2020 Grand Cherokee stack up against other popular SUVs you might be considering for snowy commutes? While subjective, the feedback is telling. According to owners, the Grand Cherokee’s high driving position provides excellent visibility, and its sophisticated 4×4 system offers more confidence than many competitors with “catch and grab” AWD systems that only kick in after the wheels slip.
For instance, drivers in the reviews noted the Grand Cherokee handles the PNW rain and Colorado mountain snow without anxiety, which is a testament to its dependability and the feeling of security it provides. Many owners came from other brands like Toyota Highlander and felt the Grand Cherokee was a step up in comfort and winter capability.
FAQ
Is the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee good in snow?
Yes, it’s highly capable with its advanced 4×4 systems and Selec-Terrain snow mode, making it a confident performer on snowy and icy roads.
What kind of tires should I use on a 2020 Grand Cherokee in winter?
For the best performance, you should use winter tires designed for severe snow conditions. At a minimum, all-season tires with the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol are recommended.
What is the North Edition package on the 2020 Grand Cherokee?
It’s a factory package that added winter-ready features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, remote start, all-weather mats, and front tow hooks to make winter driving more comfortable and convenient.
What does the Snow mode do on the Grand Cherokee?
The Snow setting on the Selec-Terrain system adjusts throttle response and transmission shifts to improve handling and reduce wheel spin on slippery surfaces.
Is the 2020 Grand Cherokee reliable for winter commutes?
Owners report it as being very dependable in all weather. It’s rated highly for reliability and performance, with many citing it as a pleasure to drive daily.
What’s the ground clearance on the 2020 Grand Cherokee?
The ground clearance for the 2020 Grand Cherokee is approximately 218 mm (about 9 inches), which helps it handle deeper snow.
References
For further reading and verification:
- Cars.com – 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Consumer Reviews
- SureCritic – 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Verified Owner Reviews
- Park Jeep Chrysler – Grand Cherokee 4×4 Systems Explained
- Le Guide de l’auto – Jeep Adds Winter-busting North Editions
What’s the first thing you do to get your Jeep ready for winter? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
