Are 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Good in Snow? Real-World Winter Test
There’s a reason the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee feels right at home when the pavement turns white. It’s one thing to drive an SUV that can handle snow; it’s another to drive one that makes winter feel like just another adventure.
TL;DR
The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee is an excellent SUV for winter driving, but the experience depends heavily on your tires and trim level. With the right setup, it’s a true snow beast. This review covers real-world performance, the best trim levels for winter, and what you need to know to stay safe and in control.
Key Takeaways
- The 2020 Grand Cherokee is highly capable in snow thanks to advanced 4WD systems and powerful engine options .
- Tires are everything. All-season tires handle light snow, but winter tires are necessary to unlock the vehicle’s full winter performance .
- Models with the Quadra-Trac II or Quadra-Drive II four-wheel-drive systems and the Selec-Terrain Snow mode offer superior traction .
- Higher trims like the Overland and Summit provide excellent winter comfort features like heated seats and steering wheels .
- Even the 707-horsepower Trackhawk can be a “winter weapon” with the right tires, though throttle control is crucial .
Understanding the 2020 Grand Cherokee’s Winter DNA
The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been around for a while, and there’s a reason it remains a popular choice for families and adventurers. It offers a compelling mix of ruggedness and on-road comfort that makes it a great daily driver, especially in the “urban jungle” where potholes and bad weather are common . But when that urban jungle gets covered in snow, its true personality shines.
The secret to the Grand Cherokee’s winter prowess lies in its 4WD systems and a lineup of powerful engine options that give you the grunt you need to push through heavy snow .
Which Trim is Best for Snow?
Not all Grand Cherokees are created equal. The 2020 model has seven different trim levels, each with different capabilities .
- Laredo & Limited: The base Laredo comes with a V6 engine and rear-wheel drive as standard, with 4WD optional. The Limited is the sweet spot for many winter drivers. You get access to the more powerful V8 and the Quadra-Trac I or II 4WD systems. It also introduces heated seats and a heated steering wheel, which are absolute game-changers on a cold morning .
- Trailhawk: This trim is specifically built for off-road prowess. It comes with off-road tires and a more aggressive suspension, making it a solid choice for deep snow and unplowed roads .
- Overland & Summit: These trims are for those who want luxury and capability. They include the advanced Quadra-Drive II system with a rear electronic limited-slip differential and a height-adjustable air suspension. Raising the vehicle can be a lifesaver in deep snow, and the self-parking feature and premium sound system make the wait in traffic a little more pleasant .
- SRT & Trackhawk: If you have a heavy foot, these are the trims for you. The SRT has a 475-horsepower V8 and an AWD system tuned for performance. The Trackhawk takes it to the extreme with its supercharged 707-horsepower V8. Can they handle snow? Yes, but they require respect. They are incredibly powerful, and as one review puts it, you need a “light right foot” to drive them safely in slippery conditions .
Real-World Snow Driving: A “Beast” in the Blizzard
When you get behind the wheel of a well-equipped 2020 Grand Cherokee in a snowstorm, you understand why owners rave about it. One owner from Mid-Michigan described his Grand Cherokee as a “beast in the snow, slush and rain,” noting that the combined Quadra-Trac 4×4 system and tires gave him a “much more safety reassurance while driving in these conditions” .
The Tire Debate
Here is the most important thing to understand about the Grand Cherokee and snow: The SUV is only as good as the tires you put on it. The standard all-season tires are fine for light dustings and well-plowed roads, but they are not designed for deep snow or ice. One reviewer noted that the all-season tires were “the best for off-roading” on a trail, but that’s a different scenario .
If you want to feel that “supercar built for the True North” feeling, you need a set of winter tires. A test of the 707-hp Trackhawk on Pirelli Scorpion Winter tires concluded that the “Jeep DNA—as long it’s reinforced with Pirelli snows—can overcome the worst of winter,” easily handling 15 centimeters of fresh snow . The wide tires on the high-performance models can also “float” a little on top of deep snow, so narrower winter tires can actually provide better bite and control in deep powder .
Key Winter Features That Shine
The 2020 Grand Cherokee comes packed with features that are particularly useful in winter. Its driver-assistance aids, like Blind Spot and Cross-Path detection and a Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning system, are incredibly valuable when visibility drops and you need to monitor other drivers who may not be as confident as you .
The interior is also designed to keep you comfortable. The remote start feature is a winter essential, warming up the cabin before you even step outside. If you’re sitting in traffic or on a long highway trek, the heated seats and heated steering wheel are a huge bonus .
Comparison: Grand Cherokee Snow Performance by Trim
| Feature | Base V6 (Laredo/Limited) | V8 (Limited/Overland/Summit) | SRT / Trackhawk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.6L V6 (293 hp) | 5.7L V8 (360 hp) or 6.4L V8 | 6.2L Supercharged V8 (707 hp) |
| 4WD System | Quadra-Trac I (Full-time) | Quadra-Trac II or Quadra-Drive II with 2-speed transfer case | Performance AWD with Sport and Track modes |
| Best For | Daily commutes, light snow. | Deep snow, towing, tackling unplowed roads. | The ultimate winter “weapon” for experienced drivers. |
| Winter Tires | Recommended for safety. | Required to unlock full potential. | Absolutely essential for safe driving. |
| Extra Features | Heated seats & steering wheel available on Limited. | Air suspension (Overland/Summit) for more ground clearance. | Brembo brakes, high-performance suspension . |
The Verdict: Is the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee a Winter Winner?
The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a highly capable SUV that handles snow with confidence. It’s a great choice whether you’re a daily commuter facing a snowy Michigan winter or an adventurer heading to the mountains. Here’s the truth about its winter chops: the standard V6 engine provides plenty of power, and the 4WD systems, especially Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II, offer incredible traction .
If you drive a Grand Cherokee with all-season tires, you will be fine in most conditions. But if you want to experience the sheer capability of this Jeep, you need to put on a set of winter tires. It transforms the vehicle from a decent snow car into a veritable tank . And if you can afford a trim with a V8 and air suspension, you won’t regret it on the days the snow piles up.
“A Jeep interior isn’t about luxury square footage; it’s about creating a durable, washable space that adapts to however you choose to explore.”
Of course, there’s an elephant in the room: safety. The 2020 Grand Cherokee received poor crash test ratings from the IIHS, which is a major consideration for any family buyer . However, if you’re looking for an SUV that can get you through a snowstorm without a hitch, this Jeep is a top contender.
FAQ
Does the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee handle well in snow?
Yes, especially when equipped with the Quadra-Trac II or Quadra-Drive II 4WD systems and winter tires .
Is the V6 or V8 better for snow driving?
The V6 has more than enough power for most snow conditions, but the V8’s additional torque can be a major advantage in deep snow and when towing .
What is Selec-Terrain Snow Mode?
It’s a feature that adjusts the throttle response, transmission shifting, and traction control to optimize performance on snowy and slippery roads .
Do I need winter tires for the 2020 Grand Cherokee?
You don’t need them, but you will notice a massive improvement in safety and control. The vehicle’s all-season tires are adequate, but winter tires are a game-changer for braking and handling on ice .
Is a 2020 Grand Cherokee with air suspension good in snow?
Yes. The air suspension (available on Overland and Summit trims) allows you to raise the vehicle for more ground clearance, which can help you get through deep snow without getting stuck.
What are the best 4×4 systems for winter?
Quadra-Drive II is the best system for winter as it features a rear electronic limited-slip differential that can send 100% of the torque to one wheel for maximum traction.
For further reading and verification of facts, check out these trusted sources:
- Four Wheel Trends – Is a Jeep Grand Cherokee Good in the Snow?
- Ottawa Citizen – 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Winter Test
- Cars.com – 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Owner Reviews
What’s the most extreme winter weather you’ve driven your Jeep through? Drop your story in the comments below.
