The 2017 Jeep Cherokee, in its front-wheel-drive 2.4L four-cylinder configuration, gets a combined fuel economy of 25 MPG. This number reflects the compromise between off-road styling and use for daily commuting. Buyers of this Cherokee model are often more interested in its strong look and perceived practicality than outright efficiency, placing a higher value on its comfortable ride and spacious interior for everyday use.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Cherokee FWD 2.4L achieves 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The difference between these figures shows the nine-speed automatic transmission at work; it uses its many gears to optimize engine speed for both stop-and-go driving and highway cruising. In city driving, the Cherokee’s weight and the limitations of a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine lead to the lower fuel economy. The transmission allows the engine to work more efficiently on the highway.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Jeep Cherokee FWD 2.4L at $1,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will change based on your driving, local prices, and specific conditions. However, the $1,750 provides a benchmark for comparing the Cherokee’s fuel costs to others. You can view all Jeep fuel economy data to see how it compares to Jeep’s other models.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates offer a standard for comparison, but real-world fuel economy can vary. The 2017 Cherokee’s actual MPG depends on factors like driving style, tire pressure, and accessories like air conditioning. Hard acceleration, braking, and heavy loads will hurt your fuel economy. Smooth, steady driving at moderate speeds will help you get closer to the EPA estimates. The nine gears might encourage drivers to push harder, lowering fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2017 Jeep Cherokee FWD 2.4L’s fuel economy is good, but not the best in its class. For example, the Honda CR-V with its 1.5L turbocharged engine gets a combined 30 MPG in its front-wheel-drive form, much better than the Cherokee. The Toyota RAV4 gets 26 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive version. The Nissan Rogue has similar numbers to the RAV4. These differences matter because buyers often compare these vehicles based on practicality and running costs, making every MPG important. See CHEROKEE MPG across all years for more information.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid hard acceleration and braking. The Cherokee’s nine-speed transmission aims to keep the engine working efficiently. Smooth acceleration allows the transmission to shift, saving fuel. Watch traffic and coast to a stop instead of braking.

Keep proper tire pressure. Low pressure raises rolling resistance, requiring more energy. Check tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommendations. This can improve fuel economy.

Minimize idling. Modern engines work well even when started cold. Idling wastes fuel and causes emissions. If stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine and restart.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps hold a steady speed, which saves fuel on long drives. By limiting speed changes, you lessen fuel use and allow the transmission to use its best gear.

Remove extra weight. Weight reduces fuel economy. Remove anything not needed from the trunk. A lighter vehicle takes less energy to move.