21 MPG combined isn’t great in 2018, but that’s what you get with the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD with the 3.2L V6. This isn’t a car designed to save fuel, it’s a trail-rated machine made for off-road driving and difficult terrain. The typical buyer understands this tradeoff; they value weekend trips and safety in all weather more than getting every last mile per gallon. They’re buying a specific tool for a specific job, and they accept the fuel cost as part of the deal.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD with the 3.2L V6 and 9-speed automatic transmission are 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city number shows the impact of stop-and-go traffic, where the V6 and the weight of the four-wheel-drive system matter. On the highway, the 9-speed transmission helps keep the engine running efficiently when cruising, but the boxy shape and off-road tires work against it. You shouldn’t expect to consistently get 24 MPG if you’re often dealing with strong winds or driving faster than normal.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,500 for this Cherokee Trailhawk. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. The $2,500 can change a lot depending on local fuel prices, how you drive, and how many miles you actually drive each year. Drivers who mostly drive their Trailhawk in the city or often go off-roading should expect to spend more, while drivers who stick to highway driving and drive moderately might see slightly lower costs.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a helpful guide, but real-world fuel economy can be quite different. If you accelerate smoothly, avoid idling too much, and drive at consistent speeds on the highway, you’ll likely see numbers closer to the EPA estimates. Driving aggressively, going off-roading a lot, and adding aftermarket parts like roof racks or larger tires will hurt fuel economy. Many drivers average around 19-22 MPG in mixed driving. Checking the CHEROKEE MPG across all years shows how fuel efficiency has changed over the model’s history.

How it compares

The Cherokee Trailhawk’s fuel economy is not great compared to other SUVs with similar off-road capability from 2018. The Toyota 4Runner, a boxier and heavier SUV, gets about 17 city / 21 highway MPG. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, probably the Cherokee Trailhawk’s closest relative, gets around 17 city / 23 highway; a small advantage, but very similar. Even some larger SUVs, like the V6-powered Ford Explorer (around 19 city / 27 highway), do better on the highway. This comparison matters because people looking at the Trailhawk might also be considering these other capable SUVs; understanding how the fuel economy differs is key to choosing the right one.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is important. Make sure the engine is tuned correctly, the tires are inflated correctly (to the pressures recommended on the door jamb sticker), and the air filter is clean. A well-maintained engine and properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and let the engine run more efficiently.

Accelerate and brake smoothly. Avoid quick bursts of acceleration and hard braking, as these use more fuel. Try to predict traffic and drive at a steady pace when you can. Using cruise control on the highway can help you drive at a consistent speed and improve fuel economy.

Reduce idling time. Idling wastes fuel and increases emissions. If you think you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The Cherokee’s engine stop-start system can also help in stop-and-go traffic, but some drivers find it annoying.

Think about the weight you’re carrying. Take any unnecessary items out of the car, as extra weight reduces fuel economy. Avoid carrying heavy items or using a roof rack unless you have to. Every extra pound matters, especially in a car that doesn’t get great gas mileage already.

Plan your routes well. Try to avoid busy areas and routes with lots of stoplights or stop signs. Choose routes that let you drive at a more consistent speed and reduce idling time. A GPS can help you find the most efficient route.

See all Jeep fuel economy data for more information about the brand’s fuel efficiency across its models. The 2018 Cherokee Trailhawk is made for a specific purpose, and its lower fuel efficiency shows that.