The 2018 Jeep Renegade 4WD with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine gets 24 MPG combined. This might seem high in a world focused on hybrid and electric vehicles, but many Renegade buyers accept this in exchange for its styling, off-road capability, and Jeep heritage.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates for the 2018 Jeep Renegade 4WD 2.4L are 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic. This is amplified in the Renegade by its shape and the energy needed to repeatedly accelerate its all-wheel-drive system. The highway number is better, helped by the nine-speed automatic transmission that allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs. However, the Renegade’s boxy profile and all-wheel-drive system create more drag than lighter, front-wheel-drive competitors. The 2.4L engine, while adequate, sometimes feels strained, especially when fully loaded with passengers and gear on steep grades, which hurts fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Jeep Renegade 4WD 2.4L at $1,800 per year, based on driving 15,000 miles annually and using national average fuel prices. This provides a benchmark for comparing fuel expenses across different vehicles. Your actual fuel costs can vary based on your driving habits, the roads you drive, and fuel prices in your area.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a test, real-world mileage often differs. Renegade owners report fuel economy that is slightly below EPA estimates, mainly in city driving. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips (where the engine doesn’t reach operating temperature), and air conditioning all lower fuel economy.

However, drivers who accelerate smoothly, maintain consistent speeds on the highway, and service their vehicle may see figures closer to, or exceeding, the EPA estimates. The terrain also matters. Expect lower MPG in mountainous areas, and better MPG on flat terrain.

How it compares

Compared to other subcompact SUVs with all-wheel drive, the 2018 Jeep Renegade 4WD 2.4L’s fuel economy is average. The Subaru Crosstrek, with its standard all-wheel drive, gets a better 29 MPG combined. The Mazda CX-3 with all-wheel drive gets 29 MPG combined, while offering a more engaging driving experience. A Nissan Kicks gets upwards of 33 MPG combined, but it’s front-wheel drive only. Those vehicles have better fuel efficiency, however, they lack the Renegade’s image and off-road character.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Check your tire pressure. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Check your tire pressure monthly and ensure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s specifications, which are on a sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Remove unnecessary weight. Extra cargo increases the vehicle’s weight, requiring more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove items you don’t need from the trunk and backseats, such as sporting equipment or tools. If you don’t need your roof rack, remove it to improve aerodynamics.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid aggressive driving. Accelerating and braking smoothly saves gas. Anticipate traffic and maintain a steady speed rather than repeatedly accelerating and braking. The Jeep’s engine management system is efficient at handling smooth throttle inputs.

Maintain your vehicle. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, ensures that your engine runs efficiently. A neglected engine will burn fuel less efficiently. Check all Jeep fuel economy data often for comparison to what you’re getting in real life.

Consider the drive mode. If the Renegade has selectable terrain modes, the “Auto” mode optimizes the vehicle’s systems for fuel efficiency while providing all-wheel-drive capability when needed. Avoid using aggressive modes unless you need the extra traction. Owners should also compare RENEGADE MPG across all years to see how this model compares.