When winter arrives in New Brunswick, drivers need more than just all-wheel drive—they need serious ground clearance, proven 4x4 systems, and winter-ready technology to handle deep snow, icy roads, and unpredictable storms. From Fredericton's urban routes to rural highways and backcountry trails, the right SUV makes all the difference.
Jeep and Dodge offer several SUVs engineered for harsh winter conditions, each with different capabilities. This guide compares the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, Grand Wagoneer, Wrangler, and Dodge Durango based on ground clearance, 4x4 systems, snow mode settings, and winter features. We'll rank them from most to least capable for New Brunswick's toughest winter challenges.
Winter Capability Rankings: Most to Least Capable
1. Jeep Wrangler: The Ultimate Winter Warrior
The 2026 Jeep Wrangler stands alone as the most capable winter SUV in the Jeep and Dodge lineup. With up to 32.7 cm (12.9 inches) of ground clearance on Rubicon models, the Wrangler clears deep snow that would stop other SUVs. The Moab 392 variant offers 28.1 cm (11.1 inches), while Sport and Sahara trims provide 24.6 cm (9.7 inches) to 25.4 cm (10 inches).
4x4 Systems:
The Wrangler offers four advanced 4x4 systems. Command-Trac (standard on Sport and Sahara) provides part-time 4WD with a 2.72:1 low-range ratio. Rock-Trac on Rubicon models delivers a 4.0:1 low-range ratio—the most aggressive in the segment—plus electronic front and rear locking differentials. Selec-Trac on the Moab 392 offers full-time 4WD with automatic torque distribution.
Winter Features:
- Approach angle up to 47.4 degrees (four-door Rubicon)
- Departure angle up to 40.4 degrees
- Breakover angle up to 26.7 degrees (four-door Rubicon)
- Electronic sway-bar disconnect on Rubicon models for maximum articulation
- Up to 86.3 cm (34 inches) water fording capability
- Available heated seats and steering wheel
Why It Wins:
No other SUV in this comparison matches the Wrangler's combination of extreme ground clearance, multiple 4x4 systems with low-range gearing, and aggressive approach/departure angles. Whether navigating unplowed rural roads or deep snow in parking lots, the Wrangler handles conditions that would strand other vehicles.
2. Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe: Air Suspension and Instant Torque
The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe (plug-in hybrid) ranks second thanks to its Quadra-Lift air suspension, which raises ground clearance from 21.4 cm (8.4 inches) in standard mode to 27.6 cm (10.9 inches) in Off Road 2 mode. The Trailhawk 4xe variant increases that to 27.8 cm (10.9 inches).
4x4 System:
The Grand Cherokee 4xe uses Quadra-Trac II with a two-speed transfer case (2.72:1 low range) and Selec-Terrain traction management. The plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers 470 lb-ft of torque—the most standard torque of any Grand Cherokee—providing exceptional low-speed grip on ice and snow.
Winter Features:
- Air suspension with multiple height settings
- Approach angle up to 35.7 degrees (Trailhawk, air suspension)
- Departure angle up to 30.0 degrees (Trailhawk)
- Integrated off-road camera
- Heated seats, steering wheel, and windshield
- Dual-pane panoramic sunroof available
Why It's Strong:
The combination of adjustable air suspension and instant electric torque makes the Grand Cherokee 4xe exceptionally capable in winter. The ability to raise the vehicle for deep snow, then lower it for highway efficiency, adds versatility other models can't match.
3. Jeep Grand Cherokee (ICE): Proven Capability With Multiple Powertrains
The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee with internal combustion engines (3.6-litre V-6 or available engines) offers similar capability to the 4xe without the plug-in hybrid system. Standard ground clearance is 21.4 cm (8.4 inches), rising to 27.6 cm (10.9 inches) with optional air suspension in Off Road 2 mode.
4x4 Systems:
Standard Quadra-Trac I provides full-time 4WD with automatic torque distribution. Optional Quadra-Trac II adds a two-speed transfer case with 2.72:1 low range and Selec-Terrain management (Auto, Sport, Snow, Sand/Mud, Rock modes).
Winter Features:
- Air suspension available on higher trims
- Approach angle up to 28.2 degrees (Summit with air suspension)
- Departure angle 26.6 degrees
- Available heated/ventilated seats
- Available Night Vision system
- 360-degree camera system available
Why It Ranks Here:
The Grand Cherokee ICE models deliver strong winter capability with proven V-6 or available powertrains. While they lack the instant torque of the 4xe, they offer excellent ground clearance with air suspension and comprehensive 4x4 systems.
4. Jeep Grand Wagoneer: Luxury Meets Capability
The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer combines premium comfort with serious winter capability. Standard ground clearance is 21.3 cm (8.4 inches), rising to 25.7 cm (10.1 inches) with optional Quadra-Lift air suspension in Off Road 2 mode.
4x4 System:
Standard Quadra-Trac I provides full-time single-speed 4WD. Optional Quadra-Trac II adds a two-speed transfer case (2.64:1 low range) with Selec-Speed Control for precise low-speed maneuvering.
Winter Features:
- Air suspension with multiple height settings
- Approach angle up to 25.2 degrees (air suspension, Off Road 2)
- Departure angle up to 23.9 degrees (air suspension)
- Heated and ventilated front seats standard
- Heated second-row seats available
- Heated steering wheel standard
- Available 19-speaker McIntosh audio system
Why It's Here:
The Grand Wagoneer prioritizes luxury over extreme off-road capability but still delivers strong winter performance. The air suspension provides adequate ground clearance for most winter conditions, and the refined cabin keeps occupants comfortable during long winter drives.
5. Dodge Durango: Performance-Oriented Winter Capability
The 2026 Dodge Durango offers winter capability focused on performance rather than maximum ground clearance. Specific ground clearance figures were not available in documentation, but the Durango's standard all-wheel drive and available V-8 power provide strong winter traction.
4x4 System:
Standard all-wheel drive with available Quadra-Trac systems provides automatic torque distribution. Higher trims offer enhanced AWD systems with multiple drive modes.
Winter Features:
- Standard heated front seats and steering wheel
- Available heated second-row seats
- Available heated and ventilated front seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Best-in-class V-6 towing (6,200 pounds)
- Available SRT Hellcat with 710 horsepower
Why It Ranks Lower:
The Durango excels at performance and towing but lacks the extreme ground clearance and low-range gearing of Jeep models. It's an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize power and three-row seating but don't need maximum off-road capability.
6. Jeep Cherokee: Mainstream Capability
The 2026 Jeep Cherokee offers 20 cm (8 inches) of ground clearance—adequate for most winter driving but lower than other models in this comparison.
4x4 System:
Standard Jeep Active Drive I 4x4 with rear-axle disconnect provides efficient all-wheel drive. Selec-Terrain traction management offers four modes: Auto, Sport, Snow, and Sand/Mud.
Winter Features:
- Best-in-class approach angle (19.6 degrees)
- Best-in-class departure angle (29.4 degrees)
- Breakover angle of 18.8 degrees
- Available heated seats and steering wheel
- Available dual-pane sunroof
- Available wireless charging
Why It's Last:
The Cherokee delivers solid winter capability for urban and suburban driving but lacks the ground clearance and advanced 4x4 systems of higher-ranked models. It's a practical choice for drivers who face typical winter conditions rather than extreme backcountry challenges.
Key Winter Features Across All Models
Snow Mode and Selec-Terrain Systems
Most models offer dedicated Snow mode or Selec-Terrain systems that optimize throttle response, transmission shift points, and torque distribution for winter conditions. These systems:
- Reduce wheel slip on ice
- Provide smoother power delivery
- Adjust stability control for snow traction
- Optimize AWD/4WD torque split
Heated Features
All models in this comparison offer available or standard heated seats and steering wheels. Higher trims add:
- Heated second-row seats
- Heated windshield
- Heated side mirrors
- Heated washer nozzles
Remote Start
Standard or available remote start allows drivers to warm the cabin and defrost windows before entering the vehicle—essential for New Brunswick winters.
Choosing the Right SUV for Your Winter Needs
For Extreme Winter Conditions:
The Jeep Wrangler, especially Rubicon models, delivers unmatched capability for deep snow, unplowed roads, and backcountry winter adventures. Its extreme ground clearance, low-range gearing, and locking differentials handle conditions other SUVs can't.
For Balanced Capability and Comfort:
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe or ICE models with air suspension provide excellent winter capability with more on-road refinement than the Wrangler. The air suspension's adjustable height and the 4xe's instant torque make these strong all-around choices.
For Luxury Winter Driving:
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer combines premium comfort with capable 4x4 systems and air suspension. It's ideal for drivers who want winter confidence without sacrificing luxury features.
For Performance and Three-Row Seating:
The Dodge Durango delivers powerful engines, standard AWD, and three-row versatility. It's the best choice for families who prioritize performance and towing over maximum ground clearance.
For Urban and Suburban Winter Driving:
The Jeep Cherokee offers practical winter capability at a more accessible price point. Its compact size makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces while still providing genuine 4x4 capability.
Experience Winter-Ready SUVs at Fairview Chrysler in Fredericton
No matter which model matches your winter driving needs, the team at Fairview Chrysler in Fredericton can help you explore the full range of Jeep and Dodge SUVs. From the legendary Wrangler to the refined Grand Cherokee and powerful Durango, each vehicle offers distinct advantages for New Brunswick winters.
Visit Fairview Chrysler in Fredericton to test drive these winter-capable SUVs and discover which one delivers the ground clearance, 4x4 systems, and features you need to confidently navigate New Brunswick's toughest winter conditions.
