The 2017 Jeep Patriot FWD with the 2.0L four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission gets 24 MPG combined. It represents a reasonable compromise between affordability and capability. This isn’t a vehicle designed for drivers who want less gas. The Patriot appealed to budget-conscious buyers who needed a certain level of practicality and Jeep’s rugged image, and weren’t necessarily prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else. They accepted its quirks, its relatively basic interior, and its less-than-stellar fuel economy, in exchange for its affordability and perceived value.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates peg the 2017 Jeep Patriot FWD 2.0L at 22 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the engine’s performance characteristics and the automatic transmission’s programming. The 2.0L engine, while adequate for basic commuting, needs to work relatively hard to move the Patriot’s weight, especially from a standstill. This translates to lower city MPG.

The 26 MPG highway figure is more achievable, particularly on flat stretches of road. Any significant hills or headwinds will quickly reduce that number. The variable gear ratios of the automatic transmission are designed to optimize fuel efficiency at various speeds, but even with these adaptations, the Patriot lags behind more modern and technologically advanced vehicles in overall fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Jeep Patriot FWD 2.0L at $1,800. 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. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and the current price of gasoline in your area. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips in cold weather, and consistently high speeds will all increase your fuel consumption, and your annual fuel expenditure. $1,800 represents an average, but individual results can differ significantly.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures provide a baseline, but manage your expectations regarding real-world MPG. Drivers achieve figures close to the EPA estimates under ideal conditions, but it’s common to see slightly lower numbers in everyday driving. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and the use of air conditioning can all impact fuel economy. The Patriot’s boxy shape and less-than-aerodynamic design contribute to increased wind resistance at higher speeds, which reduces fuel efficiency. Expect to see numbers closer to 20 MPG in mixed driving, especially if you frequently encounter stop-and-go traffic or hilly terrain. Check PATRIOT MPG across all years, and user forums to get a better sense of what other owners are actually experiencing.

How it compares

The 2017 Jeep Patriot’s fuel economy was generally considered to be on the lower end, compared to its competitors in the compact SUV segment at the time. The 2017 Honda CR-V with its 2.4L engine offered a combined EPA rating of 28 MPG. The 2017 Toyota RAV4 achieved 26 MPG combined. Even the 2017 Nissan Rogue, a slightly larger vehicle, managed 29 MPG combined in its base FWD trim. These comparisons highlight that buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency likely looked beyond the Patriot. The Patriot’s appeal stemmed from factors like its lower price point and Jeep’s branding, rather than its fuel economy. If fuel efficiency is a primary concern, explore all Jeep fuel economy data and comparing to these alternatives is essential.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking can significantly improve your Patriot’s MPG. Avoid aggressive starts and stops, and anticipate traffic flow to minimize the need for sudden braking. The Patriot’s engine works best when operated within its optimal RPM range, and sudden bursts of acceleration force it to consume more fuel.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce excess weight. Carrying unnecessary cargo increases the Patriot’s weight, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Remove any items from the trunk or backseat that you don’t need on a regular basis. Even small amounts of weight can add up over time and impact your MPG.

Avoid prolonged idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to start quickly and efficiently, so you won’t waste fuel by turning it off and on.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel efficiency, especially on long drives. Be mindful of the terrain and disengage cruise control when driving uphill to avoid the engine working harder than necessary.