Best Tires for Jeep Grand Cherokee: Prepare yourself for an adventure like no other as we dive deep into the world of superior traction, optimized handling, and ultimate durability. Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast or a road-trip aficionado, your Jeep Grand Cherokee deserves nothing but the best when it comes to tire selection. Brought to you by the groundbreaking American automaker, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the embodiment of supreme power and ruggedness. As of 2022, Jeep Grand Cherokee’s record sales exceeded 223,000 units in the United States, making it a significant player in the SUV market. This colossal figure is a testament to its unchallenged position in its class and its well-deserved reputation for excellent off-road and on-road capabilities.
As any Jeep owner knows, this vehicle’s real strength lies in its ability to navigate any terrain, in any weather. The factory tire size of the Jeep Grand Cherokee — typically 265/60R18 for recent models & 245/70R17 for older models — contributes immensely to this, providing the perfect balance of stability, comfort, and off-road prowess. These tires are engineered to withstand the Jeep’s weight, power, and size, ensuring every drive is safe and enjoyable.
But the world of tires isn’t limited to just factory offerings. The replacement tire market is brimming with a wide range of options that cater to different driving needs and preferences. From all-season tires to all-terrain and winter tire options, the replacement market presents a remarkable chance to further optimize your Grand Cherokee’s performance. And with each of these tire types offering its unique advantages, finding the one that fits your lifestyle and driving habits is not just a possibility, but a promise.
We understand that choosing the best tires for your Jeep Grand Cherokee can be a daunting task, given the plethora of options available. That’s why we have curated a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision. Stay tuned as we explore some of the best tire choices, from factory originals to the gems of the replacement market.
Gear up for a thrilling ride, as we kickstart this tire-riffic journey together, equipping your Grand Cherokee with the best that the tire world has to offer. Unleash the full potential of your SUV, because it’s not just a vehicle — it’s a statement of your daring spirit and unquenchable thirst for adventure.
Table of Contents
Original Equipment Tires for Jeep Grand Cherokee
When purchasing a new Jeep Grand Cherokee, the car comes most likely equipped with either 17″, 18″ or 20″ tires, depending on the chosen specification. These tires are supplied by different manufacturers, which we will discuss individually below. It’s important to note that these are all all season tires, and depending on your location, summer or winter tires may be more suitable for your needs.
17″ Goodyear Fortera HL Edition- 245/70R17
Meet the 17″ Goodyear Fortera HL Edition- 245/70R17, the long-standing factory tire for the iconic Jeep Grand Cherokee. As a well-established player in the tire market, it personifies reliability and continues to hold its ground in an ever-evolving industry. This tire blends Goodyear’s rich history of superior craftsmanship with the raw power and off-road capabilities of the Cherokee, delivering a smooth and comfortable ride. While its advantages include excellent all-season performance, high tread life, and a quiet ride, the Fortera HL Edition falls slightly short when it comes to aggressive off-roading and heavy snow conditions. Nevertheless, it remains a reliable choice for Grand Cherokee owners seeking a balanced, dependable tire option that has stood the test of time.
Price
- 245/70R17 : $172
18″ Michelin Premier LTX- 265/60R18
20″ Michelin Premier LTX- 265/50R20
Introducing two venerable titans from the Michelin family, specifically designed for your Jeep Grand Cherokee – the 18″ Michelin Premier LTX- 265/60R18 and the 20″ Michelin Premier LTX- 265/50R20. Both these models, despite their tenure in the market, remain top choices for Grand Cherokee owners. They’re crafted to enhance your driving experience, featuring excellent wet grip, smooth ride quality, and quiet performance. Despite their years in the industry, the Premier LTX models continue to impress with their cutting-edge EverGrip Technology, which expands rain grooves around the tire as it wears, maintaining wet traction throughout the tire’s life. However, while they perform excellently in many conditions, their primary disadvantage lies in tackling heavy snow and rugged off-road terrain. Nevertheless, for the driver seeking the optimum balance of comfort, durability, and all-season traction, these Michelin Premier LTX models remain stellar choices that have withstood the test of time.
Price
- 265/60R18 : $280
To gain insight into how well the original equipment (OE) tires perform against their replacement counterparts, feel free to check out our Tesla Model 3 OE vs. replacement comparison featuring both Continental and Michelin OE tires. Additionally, we conducted a Tesla Model S tire showdown featuring the upcoming Hankook EV tire “iON evo,” Michelin Pilot Sport 5 (replacement summer), and Michelin Pilot Sport 3 (OE). Be sure to check it out to get a feeling on the OE (factory tire) vs standard summer vs EV tire,
Replacement Tires for Jeep Grand Cherokee
3 Peak Mountain
As mentioned in our best 225/65R17 tire article, all season tires have always been the go to tires for the American market and this segment has been well established across the years. There are 2 types of all season tires, one with 3 peak mountain & one with only M+S. We have covered these 2 types of tire head to head with Michelin Defender T+H (M+S) vs Cross Climate 2 (3 peak mountain) and the M+S all season tires usually are worst in winter performances but excel much better in mileage.
If you are in an area which snows quite heavily, 3 peak mountain all season tires would be definitely a good choice. However if you have very light snow or in areas where temperatures do not drop below 45°F (7°C), a standard all season tire with M+S logo would be sufficient. If you fancy a much more handling dominant tire, the ultra high performance all season segment would fit perfectly.
While the OE tires on the Jeep Grand Cherokee are designed to meet the needs of the vehicle, many owners may choose to replace their tires with different options to better suit their driving preferences or conditions. Below are some of the best tires for Jeep Grand Cherokee based on the discussed segmentation :
All Season tires (3 Peak Mountain)
1. Michelin Cross Climate 2
In the realm of the best tires for your Jeep Grand Cherokee, Michelin has made a substantial impact with its innovative CrossClimate tire series, shaking the foundations of the all-season tire market since its inception in 2015. During a period when all-season tires were largely American-centric with disappointingly subpar winter performance, Michelin stood out with the CrossClimate, proving the possibility of excellent winter performance with minimal compromise on summer traction.
The trailblazing CrossClimate model boasted the highly sought-after 3-peak mountain snowflake certification, a marker of superior winter traction, prompting competitors to rush their own variants to the market. However, the balance achieved by Michelin remained unparalleled, even more so with the introduction of the latest addition to the line, the CrossClimate 2.
After our comprehensive evaluation, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 stands out among the scarce options of 3-peak mountain snowflake-certified all-season tires available for the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Exhibiting outstanding year-round performance, the CrossClimate 2 certainly secures the top position for those seeking an all-season tire that truly excels in both summer and winter conditions. Thus, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 is an undisputed contender when it comes to the best tires for your Jeep Grand Cherokee.
- Cross Climate 2
- Launch: 2020
- Press test wins: 3/6
- Strength: Well balance summer & winter performances. Excellent wear.
Check out our head to head comparison of Cross Climate 2 against its competitors.
Cross Climate 2 vs
- Bridgestone Weather Control A005 EVO
- Bridgestone Alenza AS Ultra
- Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack
- Bridgestone WeatherPeak
- Continental PureContact LS
- Continental AllSeasonContact
- Continental Cross Contact LX25
- Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3
- Goodyear Assurance ComfortDrive
- Michelin Cross Climate+
- Michelin Defender T+H
- Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4
- Pirelli Cinturato All Season SF2
- Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3
- Vredestein Quatrac Pro
Price
2. Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady
Unveiled in 2017, Goodyear’s Assurance WeatherReady is a noteworthy addition to the 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) certified all-weather tire selection for Jeep Grand Cherokee drivers. Crafted to accommodate a diverse range of passenger vehicles and crossovers, the Assurance WeatherReady delivers a comprehensive solution for those in pursuit of a tire that can handle a wide array of climate and road conditions.
According to recent testing outcomes, the Assurance WeatherReady presents robust performance in snowy conditions, making it an appropriate choice for Jeep Grand Cherokee drivers frequently navigating snow-covered routes. Moreover, the tire ensures a comfortable and smooth driving experience, enhancing the overall journey regardless of the landscape. However, one area where the Assurance WeatherReady doesn’t quite shine is in wet conditions. Although it provides commendable traction and handling in snowy circumstances, its performance on wet surfaces may not be at par with leading competitors like the Michelin CrossClimate 2 or Bridgestone WeatherPeak.
Given the diverse weather conditions experienced across different regions, and the requirement for reliable, high-quality tire options, the Assurance WeatherReady is a valuable addition to the assortment of 3PMSF-certified all-weather tires available for the Jeep Grand Cherokee. As tire manufacturers like Goodyear continue to innovate and refine their products, drivers can look forward to an expanding array of tire choices, ensuring maximum safety and performance on the road, no matter the weather conditions they encounter.
- Assurance WeatherReady
- Launch: 2017
- Press test wins: 0/2
- Strength: Snow & comfort.
Check our head to head comparison of Assurance WeatherReady against its competitors.
Assurance WeatherReady vs
Price
- 265/60R18 : $245
All Season tires (M+S)
Before the invention of the snowflake capable tires, all season tires mostly carried the M+S logo which means mountain & snow. The M+S logo does not require you to pass any test hence it is up to the manufacturer to determine its usage. This segment provides some light snow usage capability but its main focus is on mileage. This is also one of the main reasons that the products generally do not perform well in wet. Below are the best tires for Jeep Grand Cherokee in the all season M+S segment
1. Continental Cross Contact LX25
In the context of best tires for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, a powerful and versatile SUV like this deserves tires that balance comfort, efficiency, and performance. A prime candidate is the Continental Cross Contact LX25. Released in 2019 as the successor to the popular Cross Contact LX2, the LX25 has been designed to cater to a diverse range of vehicles across global markets, signifying its versatility, a key factor considering the variable road conditions and climates worldwide.
A significant strength of the Cross Contact LX25, highlighted in test results, is its remarkable comfort level. This pairs seamlessly with the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s focus on delivering a smooth and pleasurable driving experience. Given its low noise levels and the quality of its ride, the LX25 can significantly elevate the overall comfort of your journey in your Grand Cherokee. With regards to snowy conditions, the Cross Contact LX25 delivers an admirable performance. This is paramount for Grand Cherokee owners residing in regions experiencing heavy snowfall and harsh winters. The tire’s commendable snow performance ensures dependable traction and stability on snowy roads, leading to safer winter driving.
However, a point to bear in mind is that the Cross Contact LX25 slightly underperforms in terms of steering and handling. While it’s a well-rounded tire generally, drivers prioritizing sharp steering response and precise handling may find it somewhat lacking. This is particularly relevant for those frequently navigating winding roads or dynamic driving conditions. In conclusion, the Continental Cross Contact LX25 offers a favorable blend of comfort and snow performance for the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Nonetheless, if steering and handling performance are high on your list, it might be worth exploring other options or keeping this aspect in mind while testing the tire. As always, consulting with a tire specialist or your vehicle’s manufacturer will provide the best advice tailored to your individual driving needs and conditions.
- Continental Cross Contact LX25
- Launch: 2022
- Press test wins: 0/1
- Strength: Excellent snow.
Check out our head to head comparison of Cross Contact LX25 against its competitors.
Continental Cross Contact LX25 vs
Price
Off road segmentation
When it comes to SUVs like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, tires can be majorly segmented into on/off-road terrain categories. However, within these categories, there is a further distribution as follows:
| Segment | Off road | On road |
| ATR (all terrain road) | 30% | 70% |
| AT (all terrain) | 50% | 50% |
| MT (mud terrain) | 70% | 30% |
All terrain road (ATR) is a relatively new segment, primarily driven by regulations like those in Europe that require tires to meet a maximum threshold of noise level. Due to the relationship between pattern void volume and noise, this industry trend has shifted towards a lower void design to meet noise requirements. Hence, this sparked the creation of this new segment which has a 70% on-road and 30% off-road focus.
All terrain (AT) is a well-known segment, ideal for Jeep Grand Cherokee drivers who enjoy a fair share of off-road activities. SUV owners who like to venture off-road on a monthly basis often choose this segment. The AT segment has a 50% on-road and 50% off-road focus. However, there’s an even more off-road-focused segment, the mud terrain (MT), which has a 70% off-road and 30% on-road split. It’s worth noting that recently, most ATR segment tires are being favored by Grand Cherokee drivers who prioritize both comfort and off-road capability.
All terrain road (ATR) with 3 peak mountain
1. Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S
Introduced in 2018, Cooper’s Discoverer AT3 4S has left a significant imprint on the all-terrain tire market, with extensive availability in the three primary markets: Asia-Pacific (APAC), North America, and Europe. As an early forerunner in the all-terrain radial (ATR) category, Cooper raised the bar for other manufacturers to follow, and the Discoverer AT3 4S certainly lives up to that standard, proving itself as an excellent tire choice for the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
The Discoverer AT3 4S is particularly lauded for its excellent performance on wet surfaces, attributed to several ingenious design features. Its tread pattern is expertly tailored for efficient water evacuation, featuring broad circumferential grooves and Aqua Vac™ channels that proficiently disperse water, thus reducing the likelihood of hydroplaning. Further, the tire’s silica-based compound bolsters its grip on wet surfaces, ensuring Jeep Grand Cherokee drivers maintain control, even in rainy or damp conditions.
However, the strengths of the Discoverer AT3 4S are not confined to wet performance – it also showcases admirable capabilities on dry surfaces. Stable handling and responsive braking are assured due to its unique 5-rib design, which evenly distributes pressure across the tire’s contact patch. The strategically placed micro-gauge sipes and Zigzag sipe design provide additional biting edges, thus improving traction on diverse surfaces. Another distinguishing aspect of the tire is its rugged durability. The resilient tread compound, in conjunction with Cooper’s patented DurableTread™ technology, ensures extended tread life and resistance to cuts and chips, making the Discoverer AT3 4S apt for off-road escapades in your Grand Cherokee.
To summarize, the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S is an all-terrain tire that stands out for its exceptional wet performance while maintaining robust capabilities on dry surfaces. With a design oriented towards drivers requiring a versatile, durable, and reliable tire for their Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Discoverer AT3 4S emerges as a top selection in the all-terrain tire segment.
- Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S
- Launch: 2021
- Press test wins: 2/4
- Strength: Excellent in wet
Check out our head to head comparison of Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S against its competitors.
Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S vs
Price
2. Firestone Destination A/T2
Launched in 2019, the Firestone Destination A/T2 is a solid all-terrain tire engineered specifically for SUVs and light trucks, including the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This tire is designed to deliver a trustworthy and comfortable driving experience on an array of terrains, be it city streets, open highways, or off-road trails.
In direct comparative tests, the Destination A/T2 has been recognized for its superior dry handling capabilities. The tire’s distinct tread design features interlocking sipes and aggressive shoulder lugs, which collectively provide improved traction and stability on dry surfaces. Furthermore, the optimized tread pattern guarantees even wear, contributing to the tire’s enduring performance.
Nevertheless, the Destination A/T2 could see improvements in aspects such as wet performance, dry braking, and noise reduction. Although the tire’s wet traction suffices for most driving conditions, it may not perform as proficiently as some of its rivals in this domain. Similarly, dry braking distances could be further reduced, and the noise generated by the tire at highway speeds might exceed that of other all-terrain tires available in the market. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Firestone Destination A/T2 has gained significant recognition for its performance, earning the esteemed “Best Tire” award in the popular 2022 Tyre Reviews All Terrain Tyre Test. This acknowledgment attests to the tire’s overall quality and the assurance it offers to drivers seeking a reliable all-terrain choice.
To conclude, the Firestone Destination A/T2 is a commendable option for those in search of a tire that offers exceptional dry handling for their Jeep Grand Cherokee. While it may not lead in terms of wet conditions, dry braking, or noise reduction, its proven dependability and versatility as an all-terrain tire, evidenced by its recent accolades in the 2022 Tyre Reviews All Terrain Tyre Test, undoubtedly cement its standing as a worthwhile choice.
- Destination A/T2
- Launch: 2019
- Press test wins: 1/3
- Strength: Dry
Check out our head to head comparison of Destination A/T2 against its competitors.
Destination A/T2 vs
Price
- 265/60R18 : $259
All terrain (AT) with 3 peak mountain
1. Goodyear Wrangler All-terrain Adventure with Kevlar
Since its introduction in 2013, Goodyear’s Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar has carved a firm niche for itself in the all-terrain tire market, competing over the past nine years with industry stalwarts like BFGoodrich. This tire has held its own and emerged as a robust option in multiple comparisons, consolidating its place within the all-terrain tire space, especially for Jeep Grand Cherokee owners.
In comparative tests, the Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar has shown commendable performance in dry, sandy, and sloped conditions. Its unique tread design, reinforced with DuPont Kevlar, ensures superior grip and handling on a variety of surfaces, thus allowing Jeep Grand Cherokee drivers to confidently navigate challenging terrains. The tire’s aggressive shoulder lugs and open-tread pattern further enhance its traction and stability.
The Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar, however, exhibits a slight shortcoming in gravel performance when juxtaposed with some competitors in the all-terrain radial (ATR) segment. Despite this minor deficiency, the tire’s overall performance remains highly competitive. A significant advantage of the Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar is its attractive price point and projected mileage. It offers Jeep Grand Cherokee drivers a cost-effective option without compromising on performance or durability, thereby representing excellent value for money.
In conclusion, Goodyear’s Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar presents a compelling choice for Jeep Grand Cherokee drivers seeking a high-performing, reliable, and cost-effective all-terrain tire. With its exceptional performance in dry, sandy, and slope conditions, and just a minor drawback in gravel performance, this tire can capably handle a broad range of driving scenarios, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a versatile and dependable all-terrain tire.
- Wrangler All-terrain Adventure with Kevlar
- Launch: 2013
- Press test wins: 0/4
- Strength: Excellent dry, sand, and slope
Check out our head to head comparison of Wrangler AT Adventure with Kevlar against its competitors.
Wrangler All-terrain Adventure with Kevlar vs
Price
2. BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
BFGoodrich is a reputable name in the specialized off-road tire sector, with its widely acclaimed BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO establishing an unparalleled standard in the off-road segment over the past decade. The brand’s offerings are recognized as top-tier, often associated with a premium cost. In 2013, BFGoodrich introduced the All-Terrain T/A KO2 as a successor to the legendary KO, successfully preserving its status as a premier choice in all-terrain tires, particularly for Jeep Grand Cherokee owners.
In head-to-head comparison tests, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 has exhibited outstanding performance in gravel conditions, demonstrating its capability to tackle rugged and uneven terrains with aplomb. Its aggressive tread design and robust compound aid the tire’s superior traction and stability on gravel surfaces, ensuring Jeep Grand Cherokee drivers maintain control in challenging off-road situations.
However, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 has encountered some difficulties in dry, sandy, and sloped conditions, struggling to match the performance of some rivals in these particular areas. Despite these minor setbacks, the tire’s overall performance remains highly competitive, and its status as a top pick among off-road enthusiasts is undiminished.
In conclusion, BFGoodrich’s All-Terrain T/A KO2 is a tried-and-tested choice for Jeep Grand Cherokee drivers seeking a top-quality, premium all-terrain tire that performs exceptionally well in gravel conditions. Even though it may face challenges in certain scenarios, such as dry, sandy, and slope conditions, its overall performance and reputation in the off-road community make it a popular and respected option. For those willing to invest in a premium tire, the All-Terrain T/A KO2 continues to be a formidable contender in the all-terrain tire market.
- All-Terrain T/A KO2
- Launch: 2021
- Press test wins: 0/3
- Strength: Gravel
Check out our head to head comparison of All-Terrain T/A KO2 against its competitors.
All-Terrain T/A KO2 vs
Price
- 265/60R18 : $283
Studless tires aka Snow tires
As we are talking about winter tires, it is very important to distinguish between the studless & winter segment. The studless segment has a main focus on ice & snow and it is currently the best tire selection for extreme cold weather conditions (<23°F). Winter tires are mainly focused on milder winter conditions (>23°F) while having a very strong wet braking performance. These are typically used in middle European countries as they do not have such cold winters.
For the American market, studless tires are the main go to tires when it comes to snow tires as the winter middle European tires are usually not sold directly here. Below are the best snow tires for Jeep Grand Cherokee for the American market.
1. Continental Viking Contact 7
Jeep Grand Cherokee, with its robust capabilities, demands tires that ensure excellent performance, safety, and comfort, particularly in diverse climates and driving conditions that Jeep owners often encounter. For those dwelling in extremely cold regions, the Continental Viking Contact 7 could be a perfect fit.
The Continental Viking Contact 7 is a celebrated tire in the Studless/Nordic segment, designed specifically for severe cold weather conditions below 10°C, without the necessity for studs. Its exceptional performance has been demonstrated repeatedly, as evidenced by its domination in multiple press tests. Impressively, the Viking Contact 7 has clinched the top spot in 24 out of the 27 press tests it participated in, underlining its superior performance in this specialized segment.
Some of the significant press test victories for the Viking Contact 7 over the past five years include:
Winner:
- 2022 Tyre Reviews: Studless Winter Tire Test
- 2021 Vi Bilägare: Winter Studless Tire Test R16
- 2020 Za Rulem: Studless Winter Tire Test R16
- 2019 Vi Bilägare: Winter Studless Tire Test R17
- 2018 Autofil: Studless Winter Tire Test R16
The Viking Contact 7’s primary strength lies in its superior performance on ice and snow, which is critical for tires in this segment. It guarantees safe and reliable driving even in the harshest winter conditions, which is vital for Jeep Grand Cherokee owners residing in extremely cold climates. However, it’s worth noting that the Viking Contact 7’s primary weakness is in aquaplaning and wet performance. This is a common trade-off in this segment, where the emphasis is mainly on ice and snow performance. Therefore, if you frequently encounter wet conditions, you might want to consider this aspect before making a decision.
In conclusion, the Continental Viking Contact 7 stands out as a leading contender in the Studless/Nordic tire segment and could be an excellent choice for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, especially for owners living in areas with extreme cold weather. However, as always, it’s advisable to consult with a tire expert to ensure the best match for your specific driving needs.
- Viking Contact 7
- Launch: 2018
- Press test wins: 24/27
- Strength: Best in class in ice & snow. Weak in aquaplaning.
- Tire Rack score: 8.7/10 (Rank 2nd)
- Consumer Report score: 70/100 (Rank 3rd)
Check out our head to head comparison of Viking Contact 7 against its competitors.
Viking Contact 7 vs
- Goodyear UltraGrip Ice 2
- Michelin X-Ice Snow
- Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3
- Pirelli Ice Zero FR
- Continental WinterContact TS 860
Price
- 245/70R17 : $188
Summary
This article provides an extensive review of some of the best tires for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, including the Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S, Firestone Destination A/T2, Goodyear’s Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar, BFGoodrich’s All-Terrain T/A KO2, Michelin Cross Climate 2, Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady, and Continental Cross Contact LX25. Each tire is evaluated based on its specific strengths and potential areas for improvement.
The Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S excels in wet performance and durability, suitable for off-road adventures. The Firestone Destination A/T2 is appreciated for its excellent dry handling, although there’s room for improvement in wet conditions. Goodyear’s Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar demonstrates superior performance in dry, sand, and slope conditions, yet faces minor challenges in gravel. BFGoodrich’s All-Terrain T/A KO2 shines in gravel conditions but finds difficulty in dry, sand, and slope conditions. Additionally, Michelin Cross Climate 2, Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady, and Continental Cross Contact LX25 are notable contenders in the market, each offering unique features tailored to specific driving conditions and needs. Overall, these tires cater to a diverse range of requirements for Jeep Grand Cherokee owners.