21 MPG combined requires context when discussing the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2WD with its 3.6L V6. It’s not a compact crossover promising Prius-like efficiency; it’s a mid-size SUV with off-road capabilities, a comfortable interior and towing capability that many in its class struggle to match. The 2WD configuration improves fuel economy over the 4×4 models, appealing to buyers prioritizing interior space, ride comfort, and Jeep’s styling, even if they rarely venture off the pavement.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2WD 3.6L V6 achieves 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the Grand Cherokee’s weight and size become noticeable. The highway MPG demonstrates the effectiveness of the eight-speed automatic transmission, which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs, maximizing fuel efficiency on longer trips. Drivers report achieving the EPA highway estimate is realistic, especially when maintaining consistent speeds and avoiding aggressive acceleration. The 3.6L V6 provides ample power for merging and passing, but that power reduces fuel economy. For more information you can find all Jeep fuel economy data on our website.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2WD 3.6L V6 to be $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a fuel price reflecting the national average for regular gasoline. This is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city versus highway), and fluctuations in fuel prices. Drivers who frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or have a heavy foot will likely exceed this estimate, while those who primarily drive on the highway and practice efficient driving techniques may spend less. It’s a useful benchmark, but personal driving patterns determine your real-world fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Owners of the 2018 Grand Cherokee 2WD 3.6L report city MPG figures slightly below the EPA estimate, particularly in congested urban areas. Highway MPG tends to be more consistent with the EPA’s projections, and some drivers have even reported exceeding 26 MPG on long highway trips, especially when using cruise control and minimizing aggressive acceleration. Expect a combined MPG figure in the range of 19-23 MPG, depending on your driving style and the conditions you encounter. Knowing GRAND MPG across all years can help you make comparisons.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2WD 3.6L V6 falls somewhere in the middle of the pack in terms of fuel economy. A comparable Ford Edge with its standard 2.0L EcoBoost engine achieves around 24 MPG combined, offering a notable advantage. The Toyota 4Runner, which has a more truck-like architecture, returns a less impressive 19 MPG combined. A Honda Passport manages around 22 MPG combined. The Grand Cherokee’s appeal lies in its blend of capability, comfort, and styling. Buyers who prioritize fuel economy above all else might consider alternatives, but those who value the Grand Cherokee’s other attributes accept the fuel economy as a trade-off. The Highlander is only rated up to 5,000 lbs while the Grand Cherokee’s tow rating is around 6,200 lbs. This makes it preferable for those that have anything medium duty needs to be hauled.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking. The Grand Cherokee is a relatively heavy vehicle, and accelerating quickly requires significant energy. Smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic conditions to avoid sudden braking can lead to fuel savings.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which are typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo increases the vehicle’s weight and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items from the vehicle that you don’t need, such as sports equipment, tools, or other heavy objects. This prevents people from carrying too much after purchasing a larger vehicle.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so you won’t damage the engine by frequently turning it off and on.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which improves fuel economy. Using cruise control on long highway stretches can help you achieve the EPA’s highway MPG estimate, or even exceed it.