23 MPG combined may not be impressive, but it’s a figure that 2019 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II 2.0L turbo buyers understand and accept. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s built for adventurous individuals and families who prioritize off-road capability and confident all-weather performance over saving gas. It’s a trade-off they willingly make.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II with the 2.0L turbo engine are 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the added weight and drivetrain inefficiencies of a four-wheel-drive system navigating stop-and-go traffic. The 27 MPG highway rating is more respectable, showing the benefits of the nine-speed automatic transmission in optimizing engine speed at cruising velocities. However, that highway number can drop if you’re on steep grades or fighting headwinds, situations any Cherokee owner might encounter. For a complete overview, see CHEROKEE MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for this configuration of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee is $1,900. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price at the time of the EPA’s testing. Remember that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live. Expect to exceed that $1,900 figure if you frequently use the Cherokee’s off-road capabilities or spend most of your time in stop-and-go city traffic.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized measure, real-world fuel economy can vary considerably, and 23 MPG is an optimistic estimate for many drivers. Cherokee owners who frequently engage the Active Drive II system for off-road adventures or who live in areas with challenging terrain will likely see numbers closer to the city rating, or even lower. Drivers who primarily use their Cherokee for highway commuting, and who aren’t heavy-footed, might achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA’s 27 MPG estimate. Tire pressure, vehicle load, and weather conditions also play a role in determining actual fuel consumption.

How it compares

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee’s fuel economy places it in the middle of the pack compared to its competitors. For example, the Honda CR-V with all-wheel drive achieves a combined EPA rating of 29 MPG, an advantage for those prioritizing fuel efficiency. The Toyota RAV4 AWD manages around 28 MPG combined, also edging out the Cherokee. However, the Jeep Cherokee offers better off-road capability with its Active Drive II system, a feature not available on either the Honda or Toyota. The Subaru Forester, known for its standard all-wheel drive, achieves around 29 MPG combined. The Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II prioritizes off-road prowess, while the others aim for a more economical blend of on-road comfort and inclement weather capability. You can see all Jeep fuel economy data on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to accelerate aggressively, especially from a standstill. The 2.0L turbo delivers ample torque, but excessive throttle input will significantly decrease fuel economy. Gentle acceleration and maintaining a steady speed are key to maximizing mileage.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially before long trips or after significant temperature changes.

Minimize unnecessary weight. The more weight you carry in your Cherokee, the harder the engine has to work, and the lower your fuel economy will be. Remove any items you don’t need, such as roof racks when not in use or unnecessary cargo in the trunk.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoiding stop-and-go traffic and choosing routes with smoother, more consistent speeds will help improve your fuel efficiency. Use navigation apps to identify and avoid congested areas, particularly during peak hours.

Consider using the Auto stop/start feature if it does not impede your enjoyment of driving this vehicle. This engine technology can save you fuel when idling at stoplights or in traffic. When active, it temporarily shuts off the engine to conserve fuel, automatically restarting it when you release the brake pedal.