The 2021 Jeep Cherokee FWD with the 3.2L V6 gets 23 MPG combined. It’s a figure that won’t win any hypermiling contests, but it represents a calculated compromise for buyers who value Jeep’s reliable heritage and a naturally aspirated V6 over outright fuel efficiency. This isn’t a vehicle purchased by those solely concerned with minimizing their carbon footprint; it’s for those who want a capable, comfortable, and reasonably spacious SUV with a touch of off-road DNA.

City and highway performance

The Cherokee’s EPA estimates break down to 20 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s need to work a bit harder in stop-and-go traffic, as well as the nine-speed automatic’s tendency to hunt for the right gear at lower speeds.

The highway number is more respectable, benefitting from the transmission’s overdrive gears, which allow the engine to cruise at lower RPMs, conserving fuel on long journeys. However, achieving that 29 MPG requires a gentle foot; aggressive acceleration or headwinds can quickly diminish fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Jeep Cherokee FWD 3.2L V6 at $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices.

Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you drive on, and the price of gasoline in your area. Drivers who do a lot of short trips or live in areas with high fuel costs can expect to pay more than $1,900 annually, while those who primarily drive on the highway and are judicious with the accelerator may spend less.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy can deviate. Owners of the 2021 Cherokee with the V6 often report seeing figures close to the EPA estimates, but achieving the advertised 29 MPG on the highway consistently requires conscious effort. Many drivers find themselves hovering around 21-25 MPG in mixed driving conditions.

Factors that affect MPGs include heavier than expected traffic, running accessories that use more fuel (like air conditioning), tire inflating pressure, and how hard the driver accelerates.

How it compares

The 2021 Cherokee’s fuel economy positions it in the middle of the pack when compared to its competitors. The Honda CR-V, for example, achieves 28 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive guise. The Toyota RAV4, another popular choice, offers similar fuel economy to the Honda.

The Mazda CX-5, known for its engaging driving dynamics, manages around 25 MPG combined with its base engine. The Ford Escape, with its range of engine options including hybrids, can achieve significantly better fuel economy, the hybrid version can easily exceed 40 MPG combined. The CHEROKEE MPG across all years shows that Jeep made some improvements in fuel economy for the Cherokee XJ during its lifespan. Despite being near the average number for the compact-SUV class, the main reason why the above competitors stand out is they are often purchased on the basis of fuel economy for their price point. The Cherokee is known as a Jeep that the brand’s buyer will enjoy, even if it isn’t the most efficient choice.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 3.2L V6 delivers satisfying power, but each hard sprint to merge into traffic takes a toll on fuel economy. Gentle acceleration helps the engine operate more efficiently and keeps you out of lower gears, which consume more fuel.

Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible to reduce the need for frequent acceleration and braking.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tires at least once a month and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the doorjamb sticker.

Minimize idling. Modern engines consume fuel even when stationary. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Many newer vehicles have an automatic stop/start feature that does this for you. Although that feature isn’t present here, it’s a habit that will help in other vehicles too.

Take care of the Cherokee. Jeep has created a reliable vehicle that works well with the driver who loves it. By performing regular maintenance, your engine can run smoothly and efficiently by changing oil, air filters, and spark plugs, and you’ll see a noticeable difference in efficiency overall.

Plan your routes strategically to avoid stop-and-go traffic and construction zones. Congestion significantly reduces fuel economy. Using navigation apps to find the quickest, most efficient route also will eliminate getting lost, which will eliminate extra fuel.

To find all Jeep fuel economy data at FuelEconomyHub.com, we have even more information on maximizing your vehicle’s fuel economy.