The 2018 Jeep Cherokee 4WD with the Active Drive II system and the 2.4L four-cylinder engine gets an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined. This figure won’t win any efficiency awards, but it’s the price for a compact SUV that offers a genuine low range and off-road capability. This Cherokee isn’t bought by people looking for the absolute best gas mileage; it’s purchased by people who need extra traction in snow or want to tackle moderate trails. For that kind of buyer, fuel consumption isn’t the first priority.

City and highway performance

This Cherokee configuration earns an EPA rating of 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure is the more disappointing of the two. It reflects the engine’s need to work harder to overcome the weight and drag of the four-wheel-drive system in stop-and-go traffic. The highway number benefits from the nine-speed automatic transmission’s ability to keep the engine at lower RPMs at cruising speeds. However, expect the transmission to hunt for gears on hilly roads or when trying to pass, which will negatively impact real-world highway consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,900 for this Cherokee. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, this is just an estimate. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city versus highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. Using higher octane fuel will not improve fuel economy in this vehicle, so stick to regular unleaded.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Expect to see numbers slightly below the EPA estimates, especially if you frequently use the four-wheel-drive system or drive aggressively. Short trips, cold weather, and carrying extra cargo can also hurt fuel economy. Drivers who primarily stick to highway driving and practice efficient driving habits might see numbers closer to the EPA highway estimate, but exceeding it is unlikely. Understanding CHEROKEE MPG across all years can help set expectations before buying.

How it compares

The 2018 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II 2.4L falls mid-pack in terms of fuel economy compared to competitors. For example, the 2018 Honda CR-V 4WD achieves 29 MPG combined, while the Toyota RAV4 AWD manages 25 MPG combined. Even the Subaru Forester, with its standard AWD, gets a slightly better 28 MPG combined in 2018. However, neither the CR-V, RAV4, nor Forester offers the same level of off-road capability as the Cherokee with Active Drive II. A more fair comparison might be with a vehicle like the Nissan Rogue, whose AWD variants often land closer to the Cherokee in overall efficiency, but still without the hardcore low range gearing that this Cherokee offers. For buyers who rarely venture off-pavement, the fuel economy advantage of these other models might be a deciding factor. But for those prioritizing off-road capability, the Cherokee’s fuel economy is a trade-off they are often willing to make. For full details, check all Jeep fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid using the four-wheel-drive lock unless you need it. Driving in 4WD on dry pavement not only reduces fuel economy but also puts stress on the drivetrain. Keep the vehicle in two-wheel-drive mode whenever possible to minimize fuel consumption.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the tire placard located on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking. Smooth, consistent driving is more fuel-efficient than stop-and-go driving. Look ahead and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Reduce excess weight. Carrying unnecessary cargo in your vehicle increases its weight, which reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your vehicle, such as sports equipment or tools, to improve fuel efficiency.

Service the vehicle according to the factory maintenance schedule. Regular maintenance, such as changing the engine oil and air filter, ensures that your vehicle is running efficiently. A poorly maintained engine can consume more fuel than a well-maintained one.