The 2016 Jeep Cherokee 4WD with the 3.2L V6 gets 23 MPG combined, which isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards. However, for those who want genuine off-road capability, a comfortable ride, and the peace of mind that comes with Jeep’s four-wheel-drive system, it’s an acceptable tradeoff. These aren’t people prioritizing ultimate efficiency; they value adventure and security, and the Cherokee delivers that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Jeep Cherokee 4WD 3.2L V6 achieves 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the Cherokee’s weight and the engine’s work take a toll. The 9-speed automatic transmission helps somewhat, but its impact is limited when constantly shifting between lower gears. The highway number is better, allowing reasonably efficient longer journeys, where the engine can settle into a more relaxed cruise and the transmission can use its higher gears. Pushing the vehicle hard or driving at higher speeds will lower that number.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Jeep Cherokee 4WD 3.2L V6 is $1,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how much you drive, your driving style, and local fuel prices. Those who live in cities with particularly high gas prices or frequently engage in off-road driving should expect to spend more than $1,900 annually on fuel.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, carrying heavy loads, tire pressure, and weather conditions can all impact the MPG you achieve. Owners of the 2016 Jeep Cherokee 4WD 3.2L commonly report numbers in the high teens to low twenties in mixed driving conditions. Achieving the EPA’s 27 MPG highway figure is possible but requires effort and steady speeds. If you’re frequently using the four-wheel-drive system, particularly in low range, expect a significant drop. The Cherokee’s priority is capability, then efficiency.

How it compares

The 2016 Jeep Cherokee 4WD 3.2L V6’s fuel economy is generally in line with expectations for SUVs in its class with similar capabilities. For instance, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 AWD gets an EPA-estimated combined MPG of 24 with its 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, slightly ahead of the Cherokee. The RAV4 lacks the Cherokee’s off-road abilities, though. A 2016 Honda CR-V AWD boasts a combined MPG of 28, highlighting the fuel efficiency of its smaller engine and focus on on-road driving. On the other hand, a 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5i with standard all-wheel drive gets 28 MPG combined, demonstrating that all-wheel drive doesn’t have to mean poor fuel economy. Those considering the Cherokee should weigh its off-road advantages against the slightly superior MPG ratings of some competitors. Explore all Jeep fuel economy data to understand how the Cherokee sits within the wider model range. For a deeper dive try searching CHEROKEE MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 9-speed automatic transmission helps achieve the Cherokee’s fuel economy. Keep up with scheduled maintenance, including transmission fluid checks, to ensure it’s shifting smoothly. A poorly maintained transmission will work harder, reducing efficiency.

Tire pressure is important for fuel economy. Regularly check and maintain your tires at the recommended pressure, found on a sticker in the driver’s side doorjamb. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and decrease MPG. Overinflating them also reduces the surface area in contact with road, decreasing traction.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The 3.2L V6 is responsive, but every time you floor the accelerator, you’re dumping fuel into the engine. Smooth, controlled acceleration and anticipating traffic will improve your fuel economy.

Minimize four-wheel drive use when it’s not needed. The Cherokee’s 4WD system is excellent for snow, mud, and off-road trails, but it’s not necessary for everyday driving on dry pavement. Leaving it in 2WD will reduce drivetrain drag and improve fuel economy.

Plan your trips and combine errands to reduce cold starts. Cold starts use more fuel as the engine needs to work harder to reach its optimal operating temperature. Combining several short trips into one longer trip will conserve fuel, saving money and using less gas.