23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, that’s what you pay for a certain level of off-road capability and a rugged image that few competitors can match. These are buyers who need the traction of a true four-wheel-drive system, not just an all-wheel-drive system for slick pavement, and who occasionally venture onto unpaved roads, logging trails, or snowy backroads.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates provide a breakdown of the Cherokee’s fuel consumption: 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving conditions, which can be taxing on fuel economy, especially in a vehicle with a four-wheel-drive system adding weight and mechanical drag. The highway number, while better, isn’t exceptional for a small SUV. The nine-speed automatic transmission certainly helps, keeping the engine at lower RPMs at cruising speeds, but the Cherokee’s relatively boxy shape and focus on off-road reliability prioritize capability over aerodynamic efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II 2.4L at $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Individual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the actual number of miles driven. Premium fuel is not required for this engine, which can save money at the pump.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Expect numbers that fluctuate depending on your driving style and conditions. Owners primarily driving in the city with frequent short trips may find it difficult to consistently achieve 21 MPG. Conversely, those who do a lot of steady-state highway driving could see slightly better than 27 MPG. Towing will significantly reduce fuel economy, and frequent off-road excursions will have the biggest impact.

How it compares

In 2017, the Honda CR-V offered significantly better fuel economy, with its 1.5L turbo engine achieving 28 MPG combined in its all-wheel-drive configuration. The Toyota RAV4, another popular competitor, delivered around 25 MPG combined with its standard gasoline engine and all-wheel drive. The Subaru Forester managed 28 MPG combined with its standard all-wheel-drive system. These differences are meaningful for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else. However, the Cherokee with Active Drive II provides a level of off-road capability and four-wheel-drive functionality (including a two-speed transfer case) that the CR-V, RAV4, and Forester generally do not match, especially in their base trims. For those needing that extra traction and the peace of mind it brings, the tradeoffs in fuel economy are acceptable. Consider all Jeep fuel economy data to see how gas and plug-in hybrid models compare.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The nine-speed automatic transmission is designed to shift smoothly and efficiently, so let it do its job. A measured approach to driving will minimize fuel consumption, especially in city traffic.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, and maintain the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Tire pressure can easily drop throughout the year.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the vehicle adds weight, which impacts fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need, especially heavy objects stored in the trunk or cargo area. Also, roof racks create drag, so remove them when not in use if possible.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed helps to optimize fuel economy. Cruise control can also help you avoid unintentional speeding, which can further reduce efficiency. Avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the vehicle may downshift frequently, negating some of the fuel-saving benefits.

Consider checking out CHEROKEE MPG across all years. Understanding how different model years and engine options compare can help you select the best option for your needs should you decide to revisit the market.