17 MPG combined. Let’s be honest: nobody buys a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4WD with the 5.7L V8 thinking it will sip fuel like a Prius. This is an unapologetically American SUV designed to confidently tackle snow-covered mountain passes, effortlessly tow a boat to the lake, and providing a comfortable, commanding ride for families who prioritize capability over outright efficiency. The Grand Cherokee 5.7L V8 isn’t about saving money at the pump; it’s about having the power and grip to handle almost anything you throw at it, and its owners understand the trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Grand Cherokee 5.7L V8 at 14 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect driving a heavy, four-wheel-drive vehicle with a powerful engine. The city number is heavily impacted by stop-and-go traffic, where the V8’s displacement and the vehicle’s weight demand more fuel to accelerate. On the highway, the 8-speed automatic transmission helps to optimize fuel economy at cruising speeds, but even then, the Grand Cherokee’s aerodynamics and inherent drivetrain losses prevent it from matching the efficiency of smaller, lighter vehicles.

Annual fuel cost

Using the EPA’s formula of 15,000 miles driven per year and national average fuel prices, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4WD 5.7L V8 is $3,100. This is a substantial figure and a significant consideration for potential buyers. The EPA calculates this number based on a mix of city and highway driving, reflecting typical usage patterns. However, individual driving habits and regional fuel prices can significantly influence the actual amount spent on gasoline.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary. Drivers who spend most of their time in stop-and-go city traffic can expect to see MPG figures closer to, and possibly even below, the 14 MPG city rating. Conversely, those who primarily drive on the highway, maintaining consistent speeds, might achieve numbers slightly exceeding the 22 MPG highway estimate. Aggressive driving, carrying heavy loads, and towing will all negatively impact fuel economy. To get a sense of the GRAND MPG across all years, compare user-reported numbers.

How it compares

The 2018 Grand Cherokee 5.7L V8 sits near the lower end of the fuel economy spectrum compared to other SUVs in its class. For example, a 2018 Toyota 4Runner 4WD with its 4.0L V6 manages around 18 MPG combined. A Ford Explorer with its 3.5L V6 will do a bit better, around 20 MPG combined. The Dodge Durango, which shares a platform with the Grand Cherokee, achieves similar mileage with its optional 5.7L V8. These comparisons highlight the trade-offs in choosing a vehicle with a powerful engine and genuine off-road capability. This buyer isn’t cross-shopping against a hybrid crossover; they need the power and capability, and the Grand Cherokee delivers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Grand Cherokee 5.7L V8 is not fuel-efficient, you can improve its gas mileage. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking; smooth, consistent driving will minimize fuel consumption. The engine’s large displacement means it burns the most fuel when rapidly increasing speed.

Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires not only reduce fuel efficiency but also wear out more quickly.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo increases the load on the engine, leading to higher fuel consumption. Remove any items from the vehicle that are not essential, especially heavy objects. Also check out all all Jeep fuel economy data on one page.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps to optimize fuel efficiency. Cruise control minimizes fluctuations in speed, reducing unnecessary fuel consumption and it will also reduce driver fatigue on long trips.

Consider using a fuel additive designed to clean fuel injectors. Over time, deposits can build up in fuel injectors, reducing their efficiency. A fuel additive can help to remove these deposits and improve fuel atomization, leading to better fuel economy.