Comparing Diesel vs Gas Engine for Jeep Grand Cherokee to Tow Trailer  

Question:

Expert Reply:

I took a look at the online version of the owner's manual for the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee and it appears the actual towing capacity won't differ between the gas or diesel engine, as you are looking at a 6,200 pound limit for either option.

The benefits then for a diesel engine over a gas is more power and low-end torque which in real life situations just means the Jeep's going to "feel" a bit more powerful when pulling a heavier trailer, especially when traveling through rough or hilly terrain which it sounds like you might be doing. It's just going to feel like it can more comfortably handle the extra weight while the standard gas engine model might feel like it has to work a bit harder.

A diesel engine is also going to be more efficient in terms of gas mileage.

I will say though that with smaller diesel engines like what would be on the Jeep these differences aren't going to be as pronounced. This added with the extra cost of a diesel model and the fact that the physical capacities are unchanged lead me to say that sticking with the gas model might be the best option but this will ultimately be up to you.

If you decide to go with the gas model and it doesn't come equipped with a trailer hitch I recommend the Curt Class III # C13182 which offers the highest capacities available for your Jeep and is made right here in the USA. I have attached an installation video that you can use for reference.

If you also need a trailer wiring harness and the Jeep is equipped with the factory towing package the Tekonsha T-One # 118384 will work perfectly for a 4-Way connector to power a trailer's basic signal lights or the Curt # C55774 if you need a fully functional 7-Way.

expert reply by: Chris R

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