The official EPA fuel economy rating for the 2022 Jeep Cherokee 4WD with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine is 24 MPG combined. No one is buying a Jeep Cherokee primarily for its gas mileage. People choose this Jeep because they want a comfortable, capable SUV with some off-road capability and distinctive styling, and they’re willing to accept moderate fuel consumption. This particular configuration, with the base engine and four-wheel drive, is the entry point to that lifestyle, and its fuel economy reflects that position. It offers a reasonable balance between capability and cost, but efficiency isn’t its main selling point.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Cherokee’s fuel economy at 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. These numbers highlight a characteristic of the 2.4L engine: it works harder in stop-and-go traffic, hence the lower city rating. The nine-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine efficient, but the Cherokee’s weight and drivetrain losses affect efficiency. On the highway, the tall gearing allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs, resulting in that improved 29 MPG figure. If you spend most of your time on the open road, you’re more likely to approach that number; city dwellers, however, should expect to see figures closer to the 21 MPG mark.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Jeep Cherokee 4WD 2.4L at $1,800. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a 55/45 split between city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and even the weather. Aggressive driving, prolonged idling, and cold temperatures can all negatively impact your fuel economy, increasing your annual fuel bill. If you drive significantly more or less than 15,000 miles per year, you’ll need to adjust the estimate accordingly. This $1,800 figure is a useful comparison point, but not a certainty.

Real-world expectations

EPA data is standardized, but real-world results often differ. Many Jeep Cherokee owners find that achieving the EPA’s 29 MPG highway rating requires effort to drive conservatively. Expect to see numbers in the low to mid-20s in mixed driving conditions. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and accessory use (roof racks, for example) can all affect your MPG. A heavy foot on the accelerator will drastically reduce your fuel efficiency, as will frequent off-road use cases.

The Cherokee’s four-wheel-drive system, while beneficial on challenging terrain, consumes more energy than a comparable two-wheel-drive vehicle. Understanding these factors is important for managing your expectations and realistically estimating your fuel costs. Remember to check CHEROKEE MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to other compact SUVs with available four-wheel drive, the 2022 Cherokee’s fuel economy isn’t class-leading. A Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, for example, has an EPA combined rating of 40 MPG. Even the non-hybrid RAV4 with all-wheel drive achieves around 30 MPG combined. The Subaru Forester, another popular choice in this segment, manages around 29 MPG combined with its standard all-wheel drive. The Honda CR-V with all-wheel drive achieves around 28 MPG combined. The Jeep Compass, a smaller Jeep SUV, also delivers slightly better fuel economy, hovering around 25 MPG combined with its 2.4L engine and four-wheel drive.

The 24 MPG of the Cherokee 2.4L is similar to larger, more off-road focused SUVs, though the Trailhawk trim with its V6 engine achieves a similar 21 MPG city / 29 MPG highway rating. The decision to buy a Cherokee over these more efficient alternatives rests on its unique styling, off-road capability (more than the RAV4 or CR-V, but less than a Wrangler), and brand recognition. Keep in mind that you can view all Jeep fuel economy data on this website.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Proper tire inflation is critical for maximizing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, ideally when the tires are cold, and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Overinflating your tires can compromise ride quality and safety, so stick to the recommended pressure.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The Jeep Cherokee’s 2.4L engine is most efficient when operating smoothly and consistently. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Rapid acceleration and abrupt braking waste fuel and put unnecessary strain on the engine and brakes.

Reduce idling time. Idling burns fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine, especially during cold weather when the engine takes longer to warm up. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to let them idle unnecessarily.

Minimize accessory use. Running the air conditioner, using heated seats, and plugging in electronic devices all draw power from the engine, reducing fuel economy. Use these accessories sparingly, especially during short trips when the engine hasn’t had a chance to reach its optimal operating temperature. Consider opening the windows for ventilation instead of using the AC on mild days.