The 2020 Jeep Cherokee FWD 2.0L turbo gets 26 MPG combined, a reasonable figure. It’s not the most efficient crossover, because it focuses on a strong image, comfortable ride, and utility for its size. The 2.0L turbo offers a performance boost over the base engine, making that 26 MPG a fair trade-off for many buyers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 23 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. Achieving the highway number depends on your driving habits and terrain. The nine-speed automatic transmission is programmed for efficiency, often upshifting quickly to keep engine RPMs low, which helps on the highway. In the city, those frequent shifts can sometimes feel a bit busy, and the turbo engine’s responsiveness can be dulled. The city MPG figure seems realistic for typical stop-and-go urban driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee FWD 2.0L at $1,700. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices.

Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how many miles you drive annually and what you pay at the pump. Someone driving significantly more than 15,000 miles, or who lives in an area with higher fuel prices, will spend more than the EPA estimate. Lower mileage or cheaper fuel mean lower costs. It’s a good baseline, but personalize the calculation based on your own circumstances.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers are a standardized comparison tool, but real-world MPG often differs. Cherokee drivers report a range depending on driving style and environment. Owners who prioritize fuel efficiency and spend most of their time on the highway can often meet or slightly exceed the 31 MPG highway estimate. However, aggressive driving, frequent short trips, or hilly terrain will negatively impact fuel economy. Expect to be in the low-to-mid 20s MPG range during mixed driving. Some drivers prioritize the performance of the turbo engine over absolute efficiency, and their fuel logs will reflect that choice.

How it compares

The 2020 Cherokee FWD 2.0L’s fuel economy is in the middle of its class. The Honda CR-V offers superior numbers, reaching up to 28 MPG combined with its standard 1.5L turbo engine. The Toyota RAV4 in its standard gasoline configuration also provides better fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 30 MPG combined. The Mazda CX-5 achieves similar figures, around 25-27 MPG combined, and it offers a more engaging driving experience. The Nissan Rogue offers better combined fuel economy, rated at 29 MPG.

The Subaru Forester consistently delivers around 29 MPG combined. Understanding these differences is important, but the Cherokee’s appeal goes beyond fuel economy. Its rugged image and available off-road capabilities, even in FWD form, are strong pulls for some buyers. Someone cross-shopping the Cherokee with a CR-V is likely valuing image and styling more than a few extra MPGs, and if you are you can view all Jeep fuel economy data on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Cherokee’s Eco mode. This drive mode adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to focus on fuel efficiency. It might slightly reduce engine responsiveness, but it can make a noticeable difference during city driving. See if the trade-off is acceptable for your typical commute.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, every week, and ensure they are inflated to the recommended levels, found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Proper inflation will also improve tire wear and handling.

Anticipate traffic flow and practice smooth driving techniques. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, which waste fuel. Gradually accelerate and decelerate, and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. Leave a safe following distance to avoid unnecessary braking.

Reduce idling time. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re waiting for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, making this a simple way to save fuel. This is especially relevant during cold starts, where excessive idling doesn’t significantly speed up the warm-up process.

Reduce any roof-mounted equipment when not in use. Roof racks and cargo carriers significantly increase aerodynamic drag, which greatly impacts fuel economy, especially at highway speeds. If you’re not using them, remove them to minimize wind resistance and improve your mileage. Storing them in your garage when not needed is a good idea. You can also see CHEROKEE MPG across all years here.