23 MPG combined might not sound like stellar fuel economy in the 2020s, but it’s a reality check for buyers who want off-road capability and reliable dependability in a smaller SUV. The 2021 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II with the 2.0L turbo engine isn’t chasing Prius-level efficiency; it’s engineered for those who need traction and durability, and are willing to accept using more gas for it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II 2.0L turbo at 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the reality of a turbocharged engine working to overcome the weight and friction of a four-wheel-drive system. Stop-and-go city driving strains fuel economy, while the engine’s reliance on boost to get the Cherokee moving further dips fuel economy. The 27 MPG highway rating is more palatable, and drivers can achieve this figure consistently on long road trips, if they avoid pressing the accelerator too hard. The 9-speed automatic transmission helps optimize engine speed for efficiency at cruising speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II 2.0L at $1,900 per year. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles annually and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel cost will vary greatly depending on how much you drive, where you drive, and how aggressively you drive, as well as the price of gasoline. The $1,900 estimate provides a standardized baseline for comparison, but owners should track their own fuel consumption to get a more accurate picture.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who frequently exploit the Cherokee’s off-road capabilities, haul cargo, or live in hilly areas will likely see lower numbers than the EPA estimates. Those who primarily use the Cherokee for commuting on relatively flat, well-maintained roads and practice fuel-saving driving habits will likely see numbers slightly better than the EPA estimates. The Cherokee’s on-board fuel economy calculator can provide more immediate feedback on driving habits.

How it compares

Compared to other compact SUVs with all-wheel drive, the 2021 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II 2.0L turbo presents a mixed picture in terms of fuel economy. A Honda CR-V AWD achieves 29 MPG combined, while a Toyota RAV4 AWD gets 30 MPG combined. These options are significantly more efficient. However, vehicles like the Subaru Forester, with its 26 MPG combined, are closer to the Cherokee. For buyers who also considered off-road capability, the Jeep’s compromises on MPG may be worthwhile. Drivers focused purely on minimizing trips to the gas station may be better served by the more efficient alternatives. You can view CHEROKEE MPG across all years to get a better sense of fuel economy trends across the Cherokee model line.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 2.0L turbo engine delivers torque on demand, but using that power burns fuel quickly. Gentle acceleration allows the turbo to spool up efficiently, minimizing fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid sudden braking, maintaining momentum reduces the need for wasted energy to regain speed.

Monitor tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and maintain the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb sticker. Even a slight variance can negatively impact fuel consumption.

Minimize the use of accessories. Air conditioning, especially in hot weather, places a significant load on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Use it carefully and consider opening windows when appropriate. Also, remove any unnecessary weight from the vehicle, as extra cargo increases the engine’s workload.

Plan routes strategically. Combine errands into a single trip to avoid multiple cold starts, which are less efficient. Consider the traffic patterns and choose routes that minimize stop-and-go driving. While the Active Drive II system gives drivers excellent low-speed control for navigating terrain, remember that its added grip comes at the cost of some fuel-efficiency.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A properly maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. Poor engine maintenance can negatively impact fuel economy.

You can find all Jeep fuel economy data on this site.