15 MPG combined. That’s the stark reality facing anyone considering a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT 4WD with its 6.4L V8. It’s a number that would be a deal-breaker for most SUV shoppers, but for the specific demographic drawn to the SRT, it’s often viewed as a necessary compromise for what the vehicle can do and its unique character. This isn’t for the casual mall crawler; this is for drivers who prioritize raw power, aggressive styling, and the sound of a naturally aspirated Hemi above all else. They’re buying an experience, and fuel efficiency is simply not a top priority.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the EPA figures reveals a city MPG of 13 and a highway MPG of 19. The low city number indicates the significant fuel consumption associated with stop-and-go driving, highlighting the considerable weight and powerful engine constantly fighting inertia. The slightly better highway figure demonstrates that the SRT can achieve marginally more reasonable economy when cruising efficiently with the eight-speed automatic transmission managing the engine speed. Keep in mind, these figures are achievable if you actively avoid excessive acceleration because burying the pedal is too tempting. For more details on typical consumption, browse GRAND MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,850 for the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with an assumed fuel price reflecting the national average for premium unleaded gasoline, which the SRT requires. It’s essential to understand that this is an estimate. Drivers with particularly heavy feet, those who frequently tow, or those who spend disproportionate time in congested traffic will likely exceed this figure significantly. For those who like to compare, consider all Jeep fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy for the Grand Cherokee SRT is heavily dependent on driving style. Aggressive acceleration, frequent use of the launch control feature, and engaging Sport mode for spirited driving will all lead to significantly lower MPG. Conversely, those who adopt a more relaxed driving style and prioritize smooth acceleration might see figures closer to the EPA estimates, but achieving the rated 19 highway MPG requires conscious effort. The weight of the vehicle, combined with the immense power on tap, makes resisting the urge to unleash the Hemi a constant challenge. Towing will also drag down fuel economy; while this vehicle offers significant towing capabilities, the additional load makes the engine work harder, leading to substantially increased fuel consumption.

How it compares

Compared to other performance SUVs, the 2017 Grand Cherokee SRT’s fuel economy is predictably poor. For example, the BMW X5 M, while also requiring premium fuel, typically gets around 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway, putting it on par with the SRT, but it’s also notably more expensive. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo manages similar numbers to the X5 M. Stepping outside of the dedicated performance SUV segment, even the less potent Dodge Durango R/T with its 5.7L V8 achieves notably better fuel economy, around 14 city and 22 highway, but it sacrifices substantial performance in the process. The SRT’s target buyer is far more concerned with the 0-60 time and overall driving experience than squeezing every last mile out of a gallon of fuel.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While embracing the SRT’s performance is part of the ownership experience, there are ways to slightly improve fuel efficiency. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The Hemi V8 responds well to smooth, gradual inputs. Resist the urge to constantly show off its power reserve. Keep tire pressure at the recommended level. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces MPG, and correct pressures are essential for safe handling.

Minimize idling time. Modern engines consume fuel even when stationary. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine, especially during cold starts. Plan your trips strategically. Combining errands and avoiding peak traffic hours can reduce stop-and-go driving, a major fuel economy killer for the SRT.

Use cruise control judiciously on the highway. While not always ideal in hilly terrain, cruise control can help maintain a steady speed on flat stretches, minimizing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. Keep the vehicle well-maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and properly functioning spark plugs all contribute to optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. Consider using lighter wheels and tires after the original set wears out, reducing unsprung weight can improve rolling resistance.