The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe achieves 23 MPG combined. While this number might not stand out in the automotive market, it’s important to remember that this is a mid-size SUV with legitimate off-road capability, a turbocharged engine with electric motor, and a luxurious interior and is bought by people who need all of those things.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Grand Cherokee 4xe’s fuel efficiency at 23 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These similar figures highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the plug-in hybrid system. In the city, the electric motor assists the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, managing much of the low-speed driving and stop-and-go traffic. This is where the 4xe excels, using regenerative braking and electric-only mode (when charged) to save fuel. The highway rating, while still respectable, is closer to what you can expect from a traditional gasoline-powered SUV of this size. Once you’re consistently at higher speeds, the gasoline engine does more of the work. The 8-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel economy in both situations, keeping the engine in its most efficient power band whenever possible.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe at $1,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and how often you charge the battery. If you mostly drive short distances and frequently plug in, your fuel costs could be much lower than the EPA estimate. However, if you mainly drive long distances on the highway and rarely use the electric capabilities, your annual fuel cost will likely be higher. This $1,900 estimate assumes some hybrid operation and charging and serves as a baseline for comparison.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized estimate, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Grand Cherokee 4xe owners who regularly charge their vehicles and maximize electric driving can achieve significantly better numbers than the official ratings suggest. Some owners report combined MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent, which factors in electric usage) in the 30s or even 40s during typical commutes. Failing to plug in regularly will reduce much of the fuel-saving benefit, resulting in numbers closer to or even below the EPA estimates. Your driving style, terrain, and weather conditions also matter. Aggressive acceleration, hilly roads, and colder temperatures can all negatively affect fuel economy. The 4xe’s regenerative braking system can help recapture energy during deceleration, but its effectiveness is limited in certain situations.

How it compares

The 2023 Grand Cherokee 4xe has a unique fuel economy within its class. The traditional non-hybrid Grand Cherokee with the V6 engine gets around 22 MPG combined, so the 4xe is a little better, and you get electric driving range. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, a popular choice, gets a much higher 36 MPG combined, but it doesn’t have the Grand Cherokee’s off-road capability and upscale interior. Certain trims of the Ford Explorer get around 24 MPG combined, matching the Grand Cherokee 4xe’s highway number, but without electric-only driving. Even in the luxury SUV class, the Lexus RX 450h gets a combined 30 MPG, appealing to buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency. The Grand Cherokee 4xe buyer trades some MPG for Jeep’s capability, technology, and brand recognition. For a full look at all Jeep fuel economy data, see our detailed data tables. You can even compare GRAND MPG across all years to see long-term trends.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regularly charge the 2023 Grand Cherokee 4xe to fully use its electric driving range. Even short charging sessions can add a few miles of electric range, which can greatly improve your overall fuel economy, especially during city driving. Plan your trips around charging when you can.

Use the vehicle’s driving modes to make it more efficient. The “Electric” mode focuses on electric-only driving, while the “Hybrid” mode combines electric and gasoline power for the best overall fuel economy. Try these modes to find the best settings for your driving and conditions.

Drive smoothly and consistently. Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking, as these actions use more energy. Watch the traffic and keep a steady speed when you can. The 4xe’s regenerative braking system can recapture energy when you slow down, but it doesn’t work as well if you brake too hard.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Tires with low air increase rolling resistance, which lowers fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended level. This is important for the Grand Cherokee 4xe’s weight.

Keep weight to a minimum. Remove any items from your car that you don’t need, as extra weight reduces fuel economy. This is especially true for a plug-in hybrid, where every bit of energy savings helps the electric range.