Can the 2026 Jeep Compass Tow a Small Camper with Confidence near Huntley, IL?

James Jeep - Can the 2026 Jeep Compass Tow a Small Camper with Confidence near Huntley, IL?

Planning weekend escapes to a nearby campground or a quick run up to a State Park is easier when your SUV can bring the gear you love. At James Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we talk with many Huntley area shoppers who want a compact SUV that is easy to park during the week and capable of towing a lightweight trailer on the weekend. The 2026 Jeep® Compass fits that brief, and understanding what it can tow—and how to set it up correctly—helps you shop with clarity.

The short version is that the 2026 Jeep Compass offers up to 2,000 pounds of maximum towing capacity when properly equipped. Every Compass features a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine rated at 200 horsepower, an 8-speed automatic, and standard all-wheel drive. Choose Trailhawk if your adventures include rutted forest roads, thanks to an advanced all-wheel-drive system with a crawler gear ratio and Rock mode within Selec-Terrain. For most Huntley drivers, that combination means confident light-duty towing for camping, fishing, and DIY projects—without stepping up to a larger vehicle.

To visualize what fits within 2,000 pounds, consider common local-use scenarios. Keep in mind that actual capacities depend on trailer weight, cargo, and how your Compass is equipped—our team will help you verify specifics against the owner’s manual.

• Small teardrop or pop-up campers: Many popular models fall between roughly 1,000 and 1,800 pounds before gear, making them a smart match for the Compass when properly equipped.
• Utility trailers for weekend projects: Hauling lawn equipment, mulch, or DIY supplies around Huntley typically stays well within light-duty limits when you load thoughtfully.
• Watercraft and outdoor gear: An aluminum fishing boat, kayaks, or bicycles on a light trailer are commonly within the Compass’s capabilities.

Setting up your Compass correctly is just as important as choosing the right trailer. Our parts and service advisors can guide you through Mopar accessories and best practices, so your towing experience feels smooth from the start.

• Hitch and wiring: Equip a quality hitch receiver and the appropriate wiring harness to power trailer lights safely and legally.
• Weight awareness: Know the trailer’s loaded weight, including water, propane, tools, and camping gear—never exceed the vehicle’s ratings in your owner’s manual.
• Load distribution: Balance cargo fore and aft in the trailer and secure it to reduce sway and improve stability under braking.
• Tire and brake check: Confirm tire pressures on your Compass and trailer before departure, and ensure the trailer’s brakes—if equipped—are in proper working order.
• Visibility and mirrors: Make sure you have a clear rearward view; consider mirror extenders if your trailer is wider than the vehicle.
• Service readiness: A pre-trip inspection at our service center helps keep the powertrain, cooling system, and brakes in top shape for towing.

Beyond raw numbers, the Compass brings helpful technology for everyday confidence. Standard driver-assist features such as Automated Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring support daily commuting and weekend towing alike. On Limited and Trailhawk trims, Adaptive Cruise Control comes standard for more relaxed highway travel. Inside, choose the standard 8.4-inch touchscreen or the available 10.1-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep directions, campground check-ins, and towing tips a tap away.

If you are narrowing your shortlist, a test drive is the best next step. Our team can help simulate a light trailer scenario, walk you through hitch and wiring options, and demonstrate Selec-Terrain modes so you know how the Compass behaves when the road turns to gravel or when weather changes quickly along I-90. That way, you can confirm the balance of maneuverability, traction, and tow-ready practicality that makes the Compass appealing for life near Huntley.

To streamline your visit, here is a simple path our Huntley shoppers use to get towing-ready with confidence.

1. Confirm your use case: Tell us what you plan to tow and where you plan to take it so we can match the right trim and setup.
2. Choose your equipment: We will recommend the proper hitch receiver, wiring, and any accessories for your trailer type.
3. Schedule installation: Our certified technicians install Mopar hardware and verify lighting, connections, and clearances.
4. Take a demo drive: Practice with guidance from our team to learn smooth launches, braking habits, and parking techniques.

The result is a compact SUV that fits your weekday routine and adds real utility on weekends. With standard all-wheel drive, available Trailhawk hardware, and the right towing setup, the 2026 Jeep Compass delivers versatile capability for Huntley drivers who want to bring more along—without moving up to a larger class of vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can the 2026 Jeep Compass tow a small camper near Huntley, IL?

Yes. When properly equipped, the 2026 Jeep Compass can tow up to 2,000 pounds, which covers many teardrop and pop-up campers commonly used for regional trips to destinations like Paul Wolff Campground. Always verify the camper’s loaded weight and follow the towing guidance in your owner’s manual. Our team can help you choose the correct hitch and wiring and review best practices before your first trip.

Do I need the Trailhawk trim for towing, or will any Compass work?

Every 2026 Compass includes all-wheel drive and the same turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with an 8-speed automatic. The Trailhawk trim adds off-road-focused hardware—such as a specialized all-wheel-drive system with Rock mode and a crawler gear ratio—that is beneficial on rough terrain. For towing on paved roads and light trails, other trims also work well when properly equipped. We will help you decide based on where you plan to drive.

How will towing affect fuel economy, and what planning should I do?

Towing typically reduces fuel economy compared with normal driving. While EPA figures for the 2026 Compass are pending, the 2025 model was rated at 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined. Your results will vary with trailer weight, speed, weather, and route. We recommend a quick pre-trip check at our service center and planning rest stops to inspect your hitch, cargo security, and tire pressures.

Ready to see how the 2026 Jeep Compass fits your life near Huntley? Visit James Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Hampshire, IL, also serving Pingree Grove, Genoa, and Marengo, for a tailored walkthrough, a road test that mirrors your daily routes, and expert guidance on towing setup. Our friendly team will help you get the most from your Compass.

Request more 2026 Jeep Compass information