The 2016 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine gets 23 MPG combined, a figure that won’t win any efficiency awards, but is realistically adequate for the vehicle’s intended purpose. This isn’t a car primarily designed for maximizing fuel savings, it’s built for those who need a competent off-roader or a capable all-weather family vehicle, and those priorities often reduce fuel economy. The Active Drive II system adds weight and complexity, impacting efficiency in exchange for increased capability on challenging terrain.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Cherokee Active Drive II break down to 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the nine-speed automatic transmission cycles frequently and the 2.4L engine works harder to accelerate from a standstill. The highway number is better, helped by the transmission’s ability to settle into higher gears and the engine’s quieter operation at cruising speeds. Buyers should consider that the Cherokee’s boxy shape and higher ride height create more aerodynamic drag than a typical sedan or a more streamlined crossover, impacting highway efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this Cherokee configuration at $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Individual results may vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the amount of off-roading. Expect to spend more if you primarily drive short distances in urban areas, or frequently use the Cherokee for towing or aggressive off-road adventures. Conversely, drivers who primarily log highway miles might see slightly lower fuel costs.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized baseline, but real-world fuel economy often differs. The 2016 Cherokee Active Drive II is no exception. Many owners report numbers slightly below the EPA estimates, particularly in mixed driving conditions. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and driving style play a significant role. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel consumption. However, smoother driving techniques and proper vehicle maintenance can help achieve numbers closer to the EPA’s projected values. Expect to see a combined MPG figure in the low 20s in everyday use. To explore CHEROKEE MPG across all years, more data is available.

How it compares

Compared to other compact SUVs with similar off-road capabilities, the 2016 Cherokee Active Drive II falls mid-pack in terms of fuel economy. A Subaru Forester 2.5i, for example, typically achieves around 26 MPG combined, offering better efficiency without the same level of trail-readiness as the Cherokee. The Toyota RAV4, in its standard front-wheel-drive configuration, boasts similar numbers. Even a more reliable trim like the RAV4 Adventure doesn’t stray too far. But vehicles like the Nissan Rogue (around 29 MPG combined) prioritize fuel savings over true off-road prowess. The Jeep Compass Trailhawk, aimed at fuel economy, might prove a tempting offering. The Cherokee buyer understands these tradeoffs and is willing to accept moderate fuel consumption for the enhanced off-road capability and rugged image that the Active Drive II package provides. The buyer is not making the decision based on MPG alone and is willing to pay for the performance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Cherokee’s nine-speed transmission is designed for efficiency, so drive in a way that allows it to use the higher gears. Avoid aggressive acceleration, which forces the transmission to downshift unnecessarily, and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Using cruise control on the highway can help regulate fuel consumption. Coast rather than brake to slow down in order to help save on fuel use.

The Active Drive II system adds weight and complexity, but it also offers a 4-Low mode for serious off-roading. Avoid using 4-Low on paved roads, as it significantly reduces fuel efficiency and can cause premature wear on the drivetrain. Only engage 4-Low when genuinely needed for challenging terrain.

Regular maintenance is essential for optimal fuel economy. Make sure that the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which is often found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Check and replace the air filter regularly to ensure that the engine breathes freely. Keep up to date on regular maintenance. Because neglected maintenance is the easiest way to see a decrease in expected fuel performance, your investment in regular maintenance will pay dividends in the long run.

Remove any unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Extra cargo, roof racks, and other accessories can increase aerodynamic drag and reduce fuel efficiency. Only carry what you need, and remove any items that are not essential for your daily driving. If you truly value fuel economy, then remove anything that adds unnecessary weight to the vehicle.