The 2015 Jeep Renegade 4WD with the 1.4L turbo and manual transmission achieves an EPA combined rating of 27 MPG. Most owners are okay with this number, accepting it as a trade-off for the vehicle’s quirky styling, off-road capability, and small size. It’s a Jeep designed for a younger, more urban-centric driver who values character as much as fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

While the combined rating of 27 MPG is the most quoted, the Renegade’s performance varies in different driving conditions. In the city, the EPA estimates 24 MPG. This reflects urban driving, where the small turbo engine works to get the Renegade moving. On the highway, it fares better, achieving an estimated 31 MPG. The manual transmission allows the driver to keep the engine at its best for cruising. The boxy design’s aerodynamic limitations become less important at constant speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Jeep Renegade 4WD 1.4L manual at $2,150. This is figured from driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your fuel costs will vary based on your driving, where you live, and gas prices. Aggressive driving, idling, and short trips can increase your fuel costs. It’s a useful benchmark, but just an estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a guide, real-world fuel economy often differs. Renegade owners often report numbers slightly below the EPA estimates, particularly in mixed driving. The 1.4L turbo engine often needs a boost to maintain speed, which hurts fuel economy. Owners who drive carefully and want better fuel economy can often match or even exceed the EPA figures. Those who drive the Renegade hard and go off-road should expect to see numbers closer to the low-to-mid 20s.

How it compares

The 2015 Jeep Renegade 4WD 1.4L manual isn’t the most fuel-efficient in its class. The Honda HR-V (front-wheel drive) gets around 31 MPG combined, and the Mazda CX-3 (also FWD) is commonly rated around 29 MPG combined. Even the all-wheel-drive Subaru Crosstrek has an EPA combined rating of around 29 MPG, despite its standard all-wheel drive. However, those options don’t have the Renegade’s off-road ability or Jeep’s brand appeal. Understanding all Jeep fuel economy data is important for buyers. Knowing the RENEGADE MPG across all years can help shoppers decide which model is right for them. The Renegade’s typical buyer may trade a few MPG for the Jeep’s character and available Trailhawk trim which adds more off-road capability, and uses more gas as a result.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Keep those turbo spools to a minimum. The 1.4L engine works hard to get the Renegade moving, and the harder this small engine works, the more fuel it consumes. Driving with a light foot improves economy.

Maintain proper tire inflation. This is a simple aspect of fuel efficiency. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burning more fuel. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Idling wastes fuel and creates emissions. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The 1.4L turbo is designed to restart quickly.

Avoid unnecessary cargo. The heavier your vehicle, the more fuel it consumes. Remove unnecessary items to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency, especially items only used when off-road.

Take advantage of the manual transmission. The six-speed manual lets you keep the engine in its most efficient range. Anticipate traffic and shift to optimize fuel economy. Avoid hard acceleration and maintain a steady speed.