A combined 23 MPG is the expected fuel economy for most 2016 Jeep Cherokee 4WD 2.4L owners. It’s a Jeep, not a Prius. Buyers choose the Cherokee for its rugged styling, available off-road capability, and higher seating position over ultimate fuel efficiency. They want a vehicle for snowy commutes, weekend camping, or projecting an adventurous image. The fuel economy is an acceptable tradeoff for the Jeep lifestyle.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Jeep Cherokee 4WD 2.4L gets 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the Cherokee’s weight and four-wheel-drive system reduce efficiency. The highway figure is better, thanks to the 9-speed automatic transmission that allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs, but it is still unremarkable. Some drivers feel that Jeep sacrificed drivability for minor MPG gains, as the nine-speed automatic often searches for the right gear.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Jeep Cherokee 4WD 2.4L at $1,900. This is based on 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Remember this is an estimate. Your actual fuel costs depend on driving habits, driving type, and local fuel prices. Expect to spend more than the EPA estimate if you primarily drive in the city or off-road. You may save money by driving mostly on the highway in a fuel-efficient style.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Many Cherokee owners report averaging around 20-24 MPG in mixed driving. Aggressive driving, heavy acceleration, and frequent use of four-wheel drive will lower your MPG significantly. Proper maintenance, correct tire pressure, and avoiding unnecessary idling can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Remember to check CHEROKEE MPG across all years before deciding which year of Cherokee to buy.

How it compares

The 2016 Jeep Cherokee 4WD 2.4L isn’t a fuel economy leader in the compact SUV segment. A similarly equipped Honda CR-V achieves around 29 MPG combined, while the Toyota RAV4 gets around 25 MPG. Even the Subaru Forester, known for its standard all-wheel drive, manages around 28 MPG combined. Check all Jeep fuel economy data to see if there are better options. The Nissan Rogue and Mazda CX-5 both consistently outperform the Cherokee in MPG tests, often delivering around 28-30 MPG combined. However, those vehicles aren’t Jeeps, don’t project the same image and some of them lack the Cherokee’s reliable four-wheel-drive system and genuine off-road capability. The Cherokee buyer often accepts lower MPG for these other benefits.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Reduce weight. The Cherokee is not light, and unnecessary weight decreases fuel economy. Remove items you don’t regularly need from the cargo area. Extra weight forces the engine to work harder, especially during acceleration, which consumes more fuel.

Tire pressure is important. Regularly check and maintain the correct tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel efficiency. Refer to the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure.

Drive gently. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed when possible. The 9-speed transmission optimizes fuel economy, but it works best with a gentle driving style.

Consider your drive mode. The Cherokee has a Selec-Terrain system with different drive modes. “Auto” mode is usually the most fuel-efficient for normal driving. Avoid “Snow,” “Sand,” or “Mud” modes unless needed, as they drastically reduce fuel economy.