2017 Jeep Renegade 2WD 1.4L Fuel Economy Analysis

26 MPG combined might not sound like a stellar number, but it’s a reasonable compromise for the 2017 Jeep Renegade 2WD with the 1.4L engine. This configuration is for someone who loves the Jeep look, wants a small and maneuverable vehicle for city driving, and isn’t prioritizing long highway trips. They like the styling and the Jeep’s off-road heritage, even in a two-wheel-drive, and will accept slightly below-average fuel economy for it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 Renegade 2WD 1.4L with the manual transmission are 24 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the stop-and-go driving where the small turbocharged engine works harder, especially when accelerating. The 31 MPG highway figure is achievable with a gentle foot and steady speed. Frequent acceleration or driving above the speed limit will lower that number. Drivers who spend most of their time in cities should pay attention to the 24 MPG city rating, as it will indicate their fuel costs.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Jeep Renegade to be $2,250. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs will depend on your driving habits, the gas you purchase, and fuel prices in your area. If you drive more than 15,000 miles per year or tend to accelerate quickly, expect higher annual fuel costs. This is a factor for buyers on a budget and impacts the cost of ownership. Buyers should compare this figure against other vehicles to understand the long-term financial implications.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized testing environment, but real-world fuel economy varies. Owners of the 2017 Jeep Renegade 2WD 1.4L often report numbers close to the EPA estimates. Expect city MPG figures in the low 20s if you encounter a lot of traffic. Highway MPG can reach or exceed 31 MPG if you maintain speed and avoid acceleration. Terrain also plays a role; hilly areas will negatively impact fuel economy. Don’t expect miracles, but with mindful driving, achieving numbers close to the EPA estimates is possible. Driving style has a substantial impact. Acceleration and braking will reduce fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2017 Jeep Renegade 2WD 1.4L isn’t a leader in fuel economy, but its appeal lies elsewhere. A comparable vehicle like the Honda HR-V with front-wheel drive offers better fuel economy, achieving 28 MPG combined. The Mazda CX-3, another choice, also boasts better fuel economy, reaching up to 29 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. Even some larger crossovers offer comparable or better fuel economy. The Nissan Rogue Sport, for example, achieves around 27 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. The buyer who chooses the Renegade is likely prioritizing style and Jeep’s brand image over fuel savings; they are accepting this fuel economy to get the appearance and feel of the Renegade. To understand how the Renegade compares to other Jeeps, you can review all Jeep fuel economy data.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

The 1.4L turbocharged engine in the 2017 Renegade responds well to smooth and consistent throttle input. Avoid acceleration and hard braking, as these consume extra fuel. Gradual acceleration allows the turbocharger to spool up efficiently, providing the needed power without wasting fuel.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s weight, requiring more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove any items you don’t need from the cargo area and passenger seats.

Plan your routes to avoid congested areas and traffic lights. Stop-and-go driving hurts fuel economy. Using a navigation app to identify routes with less traffic can improve your MPG and reduce your fuel consumption. To see how these tips apply to other models, consider the RENEGADE MPG across all years.

While the Renegade doesn’t have a traditional “Eco” mode, paying attention to shift points with the manual transmission can make a difference. Upshift as soon as practical to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range. Listen to the engine and avoid over-revving, which wastes fuel.