While 24 MPG combined won’t top any fuel economy charts, it’s a perfectly reasonable figure for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee 4WD with the 2.0L turbocharged engine. This setup provides reliable off-road capability and confident all-weather performance, qualities that are important to those considering this model. They’re willing to make some concessions at the pump for the ruggedness and versatility the Cherokee offers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Jeep Cherokee 4WD 2.0L gets 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, and the Cherokee’s weight and 4WD system contribute to the lower number. The highway MPG, comparatively, is respectable. The nine-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to cruise at relatively low RPMs at highway speeds, contributing to better fuel efficiency during longer drives where aerodynamics matter more. The highway figure is obtainable, but requires resisting the urge to fully exploit the turbo’s power for merging and passing. A heavier foot will certainly impact your fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee 4WD 2.0L 4-cyl at $1,800. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway. The calculation also uses the EPA’s estimate of national average fuel prices. Remember that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live as prices fluctuate regionally.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly based on driving style, terrain, and even tire pressure. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and consistent off-road use will negatively impact your MPG. Many owners report achieving figures close to the EPA estimates during mixed driving.

However, those who prioritize fuel efficiency and adopt smoother driving habits often see slightly better results. Conversely, those who frequently use the Cherokee for its intended purpose, tackling challenging terrain or navigating harsh winter conditions, should expect to see MPG numbers at the lower end of the spectrum. The CHEROKEE MPG across all years shows a similar pattern. This particular Cherokee configuration appeals to buyers who prioritize capability over outright fuel savings, acknowledging that the two goals can sometimes conflict.

How it compares

In the competitive compact SUV segment, the 2019 Jeep Cherokee 4WD 2.0L’s fuel economy is roughly in the middle of the pack. For example, the Toyota RAV4 AWD achieves a combined MPG of 30, while the Honda CR-V AWD manages around 29 MPG. The Subaru Forester, another popular choice with standard all-wheel drive, boasts a combined 29 MPG. However, these vehicles often lack the Cherokee’s strong off-road ability, especially when equipped with the Trailhawk trim. The Jeep provides additional off-road features that the others do not.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Cherokee’s nine-speed automatic transmission. Accelerate smoothly and gradually increase your speed to allow the transmission to shift into higher gears as quickly as possible. Avoid aggressive acceleration, which forces the engine to work harder and consumes more fuel.

Regularly check your tire pressure and ensure that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended PSI, which can typically be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and negatively impact fuel economy.

Minimize the use of accessories that strain the engine, such as air conditioning. Using the A/C, especially at high settings, puts more load on the engine and reduces fuel efficiency. All Jeep fuel economy data shows that A/C use is a common cause of MPG reduction.

Reduce unnecessary weight in your vehicle. Hauling around extra cargo consumes more fuel. Remove any items from your Cherokee that you don’t need, especially heavy objects.

Plan your routes strategically to avoid stop-and-go traffic as much as possible. Constant acceleration and braking significantly reduce fuel economy. Consider using navigation apps to find the most efficient routes, even if they are slightly longer.