17 MPG combined is what you’ll get with the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2WD with its strong 5.7L V8. It isn’t chosen for its efficiency, but for its commanding presence, comfortable interior, and V8 sound. Buyers know they’re sacrificing fuel economy for towing power, space, and the secure feeling of a substantial SUV.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates peg the Grand Cherokee 2WD 5.7L at 14 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s eagerness to tap into its power to get moving, plus the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, which reduces the benefits of the eight-speed automatic transmission. Out on the open road, the transmission’s ability to select the best gear and the engine’s relaxed cruising contribute to the slightly better 22 MPG rating. A heavy foot will quickly erase any gains on the highway.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for operating the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2WD 5.7L is about $3,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and fuel prices that reflect national averages. Individual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the proportion of city versus highway miles driven.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a benchmark, real-world fuel economy differs. Grand Cherokee 5.7L owners report figures around the EPA’s combined estimate, sometimes lower in city driving or when towing. Some drivers who focus on smooth acceleration and consistent highway speeds might see slightly better numbers. Driving style and terrain affect the EPA ratings. Aggressive driving with the 5.7L V8 will significantly impact your fuel bill.

How it compares

The 2015 Grand Cherokee 2WD 5.7L has competitors. A 2WD V6 Ford Explorer, for example, achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined. Having 3 more MPG is significant over thousands of miles. A 2015 Dodge Durango with its 5.7L V8 and RWD configuration returns similar fuel economy to the Grand Cherokee. Buyers choosing the Jeep are often less concerned about the difference than those opting for a more fuel-efficient crossover. The four-wheel-drive version of the Grand Cherokee with the same engine drops the combined MPG to 16, showing the efficiency penalty of AWD.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking. The 5.7L V8 is responsive, and each surge of power uses more fuel. Gentle acceleration will allow the engine to operate more efficiently and make the best use of the eight-speed transmission.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer-recommended specifications found on the door jamb sticker.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle wastes fuel. If you anticipate a wait longer than a minute, shut off the engine. Modern vehicles do not need long warm-up periods, so you can safely restart and drive.

Consider disabling the “Eco” mode if it reduces driving enjoyment. It improves fuel economy a little by adjusting throttle response and shift points, but drivers may find the reduced responsiveness frustrating, leading to heavier acceleration and negating any savings. See if the altered driving truly saves fuel in your driving.

Keep your Grand Cherokee well-maintained. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures the engine operates efficiently. A neglected engine has reduced fuel economy and performance. Compare all Jeep fuel economy data to see how the Grand Cherokee measures up within its own brand. For a broader view, explore GRAND MPG across all years.