Three-Way Showdown: How Jeep, Ram, and Dodge Tackle Quebec Winter Differently

When snow blankets Montreal and ice coats Highway 40, Quebec drivers need vehicles that deliver more than just all-wheel-drive capability. They need proven winter warriors that balance off-road confidence, cargo versatility, and family-friendly features without compromise.

Three vehicles from the Stellantis family offer distinct approaches to Quebec winter driving: the legendary Jeep Wrangler with its unmatched four-wheel-drive systems, the Ram 1500 pickup combining truck utility with refined ride quality, and the Dodge Durango three-row SUV blending performance with seven-passenger versatility. Each vehicle brings unique strengths to winter roads, but which one best matches your needs? Let's explore how these three capable vehicles stack up for drivers in Montreal-Est and across Quebec.

Off-Road Capability and Winter Traction Systems

The Jeep Wrangler sets the benchmark for winter capability with four advanced 4x4 systems designed for extreme conditions. Command-Trac and Rock-Trac transfer cases provide part-time and full-time four-wheel drive, while Selec-Trac offers seamless transitions between 2WD and 4WD. The Rubicon trim features Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials on both front and rear axles, plus an electronic sway-bar disconnect system for maximum articulation on uneven terrain.

Ground clearance reaches 32.7 cm on standard Wrangler models, with approach angles up to 47.4 degrees and departure angles reaching 40.4 degrees on Rubicon configurations. The Wrangler can ford up to 86.3 cm of water, making it exceptionally capable in deep snow or spring meltwater conditions common across Quebec.

Ram 1500 offers three transfer case options for 2026. Electronic part-time systems come standard on Tradesman, Express, and Warlock trims, while electronic on-demand transfer cases equip Big Horn, Sport, Rebel, Laramie, Limited, and Longhorn models. The high-performance RHO features an electronic full-time transfer case with multiple drive modes. Ground clearance varies by configuration: standard models offer 21.8 cm without skid plates, while air suspension-equipped trucks can raise to 27 cm in Off Road 2 mode. The RHO achieves 30 cm of ground clearance with approach angles reaching 31 degrees.

Dodge Durango employs a different strategy with its available Quadra-Trac all-wheel-drive system. While not offering the same extreme off-road capability as Wrangler or Ram, Durango provides confident all-weather traction for on-road winter driving. The system automatically distributes torque between front and rear wheels as conditions demand, with no driver input required.

Powertrain Options and Winter Performance

Jeep Wrangler offers three engine choices for 2026. The standard 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 delivers 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. The available 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder produces 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, exclusively with the eight-speed automatic. The Moab 392 features a 6.4-litre V-8 generating 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.

Ram 1500's powertrain lineup spans four options. The base 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 with eTorque hybrid technology comes standard on Tradesman, Express, Warlock, and Big Horn trims. The 3.0-litre Twin Turbo Standard Output engine serves as standard equipment on Sport, Rebel, and Laramie models. The 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 with eTorque returns as an option across most trims, delivering 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Top-tier Limited, Longhorn, Tungsten, and RHO trims feature the 3.0-litre Twin Turbo High Output engine producing up to 540 horsepower.

Dodge Durango's standard powertrain consists of the 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 rated at 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The SRT Hellcat variant features a supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI V-8 producing 710 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque.

Cargo Capacity and Passenger Versatility

Jeep Wrangler prioritizes open-air freedom over maximum cargo volume. Four-door Wrangler models provide seating for five passengers. Cargo capacity varies by configuration, but the Wrangler's removable doors, fold-down windshield, and available Freedom Top three-piece modular hardtop create unique versatility for outdoor enthusiasts. The enhanced door hinge system for 2026 makes door removal quicker and easier than previous model years.

Ram 1500 delivers true truck utility with multiple bed configurations. The 5-foot-7-inch bed measures 1,713 mm in length, while the 6-foot-4-inch bed extends to 1,939 mm. Both configurations offer RamBox cargo management systems as options, adding lockable weatherproof storage bins integrated into the bed rails. Maximum payload capacity reaches 794 kg depending on configuration. The Crew Cab's rear seat folds up to create additional interior storage space.

Dodge Durango offers the most passenger flexibility with standard seven-passenger seating across three rows. The second-row 60/40 split-folding bench seat provides access to the third row, while available second-row captain's chairs reduce capacity to six passengers but enhance comfort. Maximum cargo capacity reaches 2,409 litres with all rear seats folded flat, making Durango the clear choice for large families or those regularly transporting significant cargo. The power liftgate comes standard across all trims.

Towing Capacity Across the Lineup

Towing capability varies significantly across these three vehicles. The Jeep Wrangler achieves best-in-class maximum towing capacity of 2,267 kg when properly equipped with the four-door configuration, 3.6-litre V-6 or 2.0-litre turbo engine, eight-speed automatic transmission, and 4.10 axle ratio. Two-door models max out at 1,587 kg. The Moab 392 V-8 can tow up to 1,587 kg.

Ram 1500 delivers substantially higher towing figures, with maximum capacity reaching 5,203 kg when equipped with the 3.0-litre Twin Turbo High Output engine. Standard configurations with the 3.6-litre V-6 and eTorque can tow up to 2,267 kg, while properly equipped HEMI V-8 models handle up to 4,672 kg. Available trailer-tow packages include integrated brake controllers, trailer tire-pressure monitoring, reverse steering control, and trailer light check systems.

Dodge Durango achieves best-in-class towing at every trim level, with the V-6 model rated for 2,812 kg. This makes Durango particularly attractive for Quebec families who need to tow campers, boats, or enclosed trailers during winter storage season while maintaining seven-passenger seating capability.

Technology and Winter Comfort Features

All three vehicles offer modern technology features suited to Quebec winters. Jeep Wrangler includes standard heated front seats and steering wheel on Sport S and higher trims, with available dual-zone automatic climate control. The available 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen with navigation comes standard on Moab 392 and as part of the Technology Group on other trims. Forward-facing off-road cameras help navigate snow-covered trails.

Ram 1500 provides extensive winter comfort features including standard heated front seats and steering wheel across most trims, with available heated rear seats on Rebel Level 2, Sport Level 1, and Laramie Level 2 equipment groups. The available 14.5-inch Uconnect touchscreen represents the largest display in the segment. Ventilated front seats, massaging seats, and a head-up display enhance comfort on long winter drives. Remote start comes standard on most configurations.

Dodge Durango includes standard heated front seats and steering wheel, with available heated second-row seats. The standard 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen with navigation provides intuitive control of climate and entertainment systems. Available features include a 19-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a power sunroof. The available Driver Safety Tech package adds hands-free driving assistance features.

At a Glance: Key Specifications Comparison

Which Vehicle Matches Your Quebec Winter Needs?

Choosing between these three capable Stellantis vehicles depends on your specific priorities. The Jeep Wrangler excels for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize extreme off-road capability and open-air freedom. Its legendary 4x4 systems, removable doors, and exceptional ground clearance make it ideal for exploring Quebec's backcountry trails, accessing remote cabins, or confidently navigating unplowed roads after major snowstorms. The Wrangler's unique character appeals to drivers who view their vehicle as a lifestyle statement as much as transportation.

Ram 1500 serves buyers who need true truck utility without sacrificing daily-driving comfort. The combination of multiple bed lengths, substantial towing capacity, and refined ride quality makes Ram 1500 the practical choice for contractors, outdoor enthusiasts with large equipment, or anyone who regularly hauls cargo. The available air suspension system provides excellent ride comfort on paved roads while maintaining off-road capability when needed. For drivers in Montreal-Est who balance work demands with family transportation needs, Ram 1500 offers the most versatile solution.

Dodge Durango targets families who refuse to compromise performance for practicality. The three-row seating configuration accommodates up to seven passengers, while the available supercharged HEMI V-8 delivers exhilarating acceleration. Durango's 2,409-litre maximum cargo capacity exceeds most competitors, making it ideal for Quebec families who need space for hockey equipment, ski gear, or extended road trips. The combination of performance, space, and all-weather capability creates a unique value proposition in the three-row SUV segment.

Consider your typical winter driving scenarios: Do you regularly venture off paved roads? The Wrangler's extreme capability justifies its trade-offs in cargo space and fuel economy. Do you need to tow heavy trailers or haul construction materials? Ram 1500's truck architecture and towing capacity make it the clear choice. Do you prioritize passenger space and cargo versatility while maintaining performance? Durango's three-row layout and available high-output engines deliver both.

Experience These Vehicles at Grenier Chrysler Montréal-Est

Understanding how these three vehicles perform in real Quebec winter conditions requires firsthand experience. Visit Grenier Chrysler Montréal-Est to explore the complete Jeep Wrangler, Ram 1500, and Dodge Durango lineups. Our team can help you evaluate which vehicle best matches your specific needs, from daily commuting on icy Montreal-Est streets to weekend adventures in the Laurentians. Schedule your test drive today and discover which Stellantis vehicle will become your trusted winter companion.