Best Winter Tires for Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 and WL Models
You’re looking out the window at the first real snowfall of the year, and you know those all-season tires just aren’t going to cut it.
Your Grand Cherokee is a beast in the snow when it’s properly equipped—and the most important piece of that puzzle is a set of dedicated winter tires. Whether you drive a WK2 or the newer WL, here’s what you need to know to stay safe when the roads get slick.
TL;DR
The best winter tire for your Grand Cherokee depends on your driving needs. For harsh snow and ice, the Continental WinterContact TS 850 P is a top performer. The Goodyear Wintercommand has impressed owners with its snow performance on WK2 models, while Nokian tires get consistent praise from Grand Cherokee owners for winter driving. For those wanting year-round versatility with strong snow capability, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W is popular, though some owners note its snow performance is “mediocre at best” compared to dedicated winter rubber.
Understanding Your Grand Cherokee’s Tire Sizes
Before shopping, you need to know what size fits your Jeep. Both WK2 and WL models use several common sizes depending on trim and wheel options.
WK2 (2011-2023) Approved Sizes
The WK2 Grand Cherokee typically comes with these factory-approved tire sizes:
| Tire Size | Common Wheel Size |
|---|---|
| 265/60R18 | 18-inch |
| 265/50R20 | 20-inch |
| 295/45ZR20 | 20-inch (SRT8) |
The 265/60R18 is the most common size for WK2 models with 18-inch wheels, while the 265/50R20 is standard on higher trims with 20-inch wheels. The SRT8 uses the wider 295/45ZR20 for its performance setup.
WL (2022-Present) Sizes
The newer WL Grand Cherokee uses similar tire sizes, but there’s a catch if you’re thinking about using WK2 wheels. The offset is slightly different—WK2 wheels sit a bit more tucked in on the WL compared to factory WL wheels. Some owners have successfully used WK2 takeoff wheels on their WL with spacers to adjust the offset, but it’s something to keep in mind.
💡 Pro Tip: For winter setups, many owners recommend downsizing to 18-inch wheels with taller sidewall tires. This gives you better traction in snow and more protection against pothole damage. Steel rims are also more durable against road salt corrosion than aluminum.
Top Winter Tires for Your Grand Cherokee
Dedicated Winter Tires (Best for Harsh Conditions)
Continental WinterContact TS 850 P – This tire performs well in dry and wet conditions, making it a solid choice for mixed winter driving. However, one owner review noted disappointment with lateral grip on snow, calling it “very disappointed in that regard”. It’s still a quality option, but maybe not the absolute best for deep snow.
Goodyear Wintercommand – Owners have reported being “absolutely shocked at how well the Jeep performs” with these tires on a 2020 GC Altitude. They’re a dedicated winter tire that seems to hit the sweet spot for snow performance.
Nokian WRG5 – Nokian brings decades of Nordic winter expertise to the table. One owner running these on a 2020 GC Overland V8 couldn’t say enough good things about them, noting they’ve run Nokian tires on multiple Grand Cherokees over the years. They’re rated “all-weather” rather than just all-season, meaning they perform better in snow and rain than standard all-seasons.
All-Terrain with Snow Capability
Falken Wildpeak AT3W – These are a popular choice for owners who want off-road capability alongside winter performance. One owner runs 265/65R18 Wildpeaks on their 2020 Overland with the Off-Road Adventure II package. But a warning: another owner who has AT3Ws on their JK Wrangler found their snow performance “mediocre at best” and switched to dedicated Goodyear Wintercommands for their GC.
BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A – Customers praise these for “confident wet and snow traction” with strong performance in rain, ice, and winter conditions. One Grand Cherokee owner reported they’re “good on fuel compared to factory tires” with no major change in fuel efficiency.
Winter Tire Buying Tips
- Check Your Tire Size: Always confirm your Grand Cherokee’s tire size by checking the owner’s manual or the sidewall markings on your current tires. The wrong size can affect handling and speedometer accuracy.
- Consider a Separate Winter Wheel Set: Many owners buy a dedicated set of steel or cheaper alloy wheels for their winter tires. This makes swapping seasonal tires easier and protects your expensive summer wheels from road salt damage.
- Watch Tread Depth: For winter tires, it’s strongly recommended not to drive on them if tread depth is less than 4mm—”their grip and braking performance in snow and icy conditions drop significantly below this level”.
- 4xe Owners: The plug-in hybrid models have the same tire size considerations as other WL models. Just keep in mind the added weight of the battery pack when choosing load ratings.
FAQ
What tire size does a WK2 Grand Cherokee need?
Common approved sizes are 265/60R18 for 18-inch wheels and 265/50R20 for 20-inch wheels. SRT8 models use 295/45ZR20.
Can I use WK2 wheels on a WL Grand Cherokee?
Yes, but the offset is different. WK2 wheels sit more tucked in on the WL. Some owners add spacers to fix this, while others note it’s a small enough difference to ignore.
What are the best winter tires for Grand Cherokee?
Owners praise Goodyear Wintercommand, Nokian WRG5, and Continental WinterContact TS 850 P. The best choice depends on your specific winter conditions and driving needs.
Do I need winter tires if I have 4WD?
Yes. Even with all-wheel drive, winter tires provide significantly better traction and braking on slippery roads. 4WD helps you go, but winter tires help you stop and turn.
Should I get studded or studless winter tires?
Studded tires offer better grip on sheer ice but are regulated or banned in some states. Studless winter tires like the Nokian WRG5 provide excellent snow performance without the road damage concerns.
What winter tires are you running on your Grand Cherokee? Drop a comment below and share your experience—good or bad!
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