20 MPG combined won’t win any fuel economy awards, but it’s the price for the 2023 Jeep Wagoneer L 2WD with the 3.0L Hurricane engine. This isn’t a vehicle designed for hypermiling. It’s built to haul families and their gear in comfort, offering a large interior and road presence. This configuration, with two-wheel drive, prioritizes maximum passenger and cargo space while trying to minimize the fuel penalty that normally comes with such a large vehicle. Wagoneer L buyers understand they’re not getting Prius-like efficiency, but instead reasonable performance for the capability they receive.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway show the impact of driving a large, relatively heavy vehicle. The city figure highlights the effect of stop-and-go traffic on fuel consumption, where the Wagoneer L’s weight and engine displacement work against it. On the open road, however, the 24 MPG highway rating demonstrates the benefits of the eight-speed automatic transmission, which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs for improved efficiency. Drivers who spend a lot of their time on the highway will see the best fuel economy, but city drivers should prepare for more frequent trips to the gas station.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,200 for the 2023 Jeep Wagoneer L 2WD. 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 the national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing running costs with other vehicles, and it’s an honest indication of what owners can expect to spend each year. Individual costs will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel prices, but $2,200 represents a reasonable average.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can differ based on several factors. Aggressive driving, heavy loads, and even tire pressure can all impact MPG. Wagoneer L drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and maintain recommended tire pressures are more likely to achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates. The 3.0L Hurricane engine is designed to deliver its best performance with premium fuel, although it will run on regular unleaded. Using premium fuel *may* yield slightly better MPG in some situations, but this is not guaranteed, and the cost difference should be considered.

How it compares

Compared to other large SUVs, the 2023 Jeep Wagoneer L 2WD fares well. The Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD with the 5.3L V8, for example, is rated at 20 MPG combined. This matches the Wagoneer L, while offering a very different driving experience.

The Ford Expedition 2WD also achieves 20 MPG combined with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6, highlighting that the Wagoneer L’s numbers are competitive within its class. Understanding these comparisons is important for buyers who are cross-shopping these models and want to evaluate the trade-offs between fuel economy, passenger space, and overall capability. You can view WAGONEER MPG across all years to see how the current model stacks up against its predecessors.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are important for maximizing fuel economy in any vehicle, but particularly in a large SUV like the Wagoneer L. Avoid aggressive starts and anticipate traffic flow to minimize hard braking. Both of these habits can significantly reduce MPG. The key is to drive smoothly, not quickly.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which is usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to lower fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo adds to the Wagoneer L’s weight, further decreasing fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need on a regular basis, and declutter the interior and cargo area. Even small weight reductions can add up over time.

Use the Wagoneer L’s driver information display to monitor your fuel economy in real-time. Most trims offer a screen that shows your average MPG, and instantaneous fuel consumption. By paying attention to this information, you can adjust your driving habits to optimize fuel efficiency. Research all Jeep fuel economy data to better gauge what you can expect.