The 2020 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4WD, with its 1.3L turbo, gets 24 MPG combined. Many prospective buyers likely already know and have accepted this figure. No one chooses the Trailhawk for its fuel efficiency but because they need a genuinely capable off-road vehicle in a small package that can navigate tight trails and still handle daily driving. The fuel economy is simply the price of admission.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Renegade Trailhawk 4WD are 22 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go traffic where the small-displacement turbo engine works harder to get the boxy Renegade moving. The highway estimate is more palatable, aided by the nine-speed automatic transmission that allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs. However, the Renegade’s aerodynamics, especially in Trailhawk trim with its increased ride height and off-road tires, limits highway efficiency. Anyone expecting to routinely achieve the 27 MPG estimate will need to be diligent about driving at or below posted speed limits.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,800 for the 2020 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4WD. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the price of gasoline in your area. Aggressive driving, frequent off-roading, and higher gas prices will all increase your annual fuel expenditure. Conversely, conservative driving and lower gas prices will decrease it. The EPA also assumes a certain percentage of city versus highway driving; if your driving is primarily in the city, you should expect to exceed the $1,800 estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the 2020 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4WD can vary significantly. Drivers who frequently engage the four-wheel-drive system, especially in low range, will see a noticeable drop in MPG. The added weight of aftermarket accessories, such as roof racks and skid plates, also contributes to lower fuel efficiency. However, drivers who primarily use the vehicle for commuting on relatively flat terrain may be able to approach the EPA estimates, or even slightly exceed them with careful driving habits.

How it compares

Compared to other small SUVs with off-road aspirations, the 2020 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk 4WD’s fuel economy is middle of the road. A similarly equipped Subaru Crosstrek boasts a combined EPA rating of 29 MPG. The Jeep Compass Trailhawk is rated at 22 MPG combined with its 2.4L engine. The difference in MPG really speaks to the design philosophy behind each vehicle, and the trade-offs each manufacturer makes. It’s also essential to consider all Jeep fuel economy data to see how the Renegade fits within the brand’s broader lineup. Before making any assumptions, it is worth cross-shopping Jeep’s RENEGADE MPG across all years with other small SUVs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. The Renegade Trailhawk’s off-road tires can negatively impact fuel economy if they are not inflated to the correct pressure. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended pressure and maintain it diligently.

Avoid aggressive driving. The small turbocharged engine in the Renegade Trailhawk responds well to gentle acceleration and consistent speeds. Hard acceleration and frequent braking will significantly reduce fuel efficiency due to the need to engage the turbocharger for immediate power.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods, especially in cold weather, wastes fuel. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Yes, modern stop-start systems have their own quirks, but they are generally reliable at saving fuel where possible.

Limit the use of four-wheel drive. Engaging four-wheel drive increases fuel consumption. Only engage it when necessary, such as on loose surfaces or in challenging weather conditions.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove any unnecessary items from the roof rack and avoid adding aftermarket accessories that increase wind resistance. These factors contribute to a drag that impacts fuel economy, especially at higher speeds.