The 2019 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II with its 3.2L 6-cyl gets 21 MPG combined, a number that won’t set any fuel economy records. This figure should be considered knowing what the Jeep is meant to do. This isn’t a crossover designed only for running errands. It’s a Jeep with the Active Drive II system, built to handle trails and weather that would stop many competitors. The 3.2L V6 provides plenty of power, and for those who need its off-road ability, fuel economy is often less important.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates of 18 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway reveal the compromises in a vehicle like this. The city number reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic on a V6 and a four-wheel-drive system that adds weight and resistance, even when not engaged.

The highway number is better, thanks to the nine-speed automatic transmission that lets the engine cruise more efficiently. However, driving hard or using four-wheel-drive consistently will reduce that 26 MPG figure quickly.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,100 for the 2019 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II, assuming 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. This is a good point for comparison, but your costs will change based on your driving, local fuel prices, and how you drive.

Expect to spend more if you drive mostly in the city or use four-wheel-drive a lot. Driving mostly highway miles with a light foot will lower your fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

Remember that buyers of this Jeep usually aren’t looking for maximum efficiency. They want a mix of practicality, off-road ability, and the Jeep brand. Many are willing to accept the fuel economy trade-off for the confidence the Active Drive II system gives them in tough conditions.

The advertised MPG is a starting point, but your actual numbers will change depending on how you drive. Frequent off-road trips or heavy towing will lower fuel mileage a lot. For those who want to see the CHEROKEE MPG across all years, there’s plenty of historical data available.

How it compares

The 2019 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II’s fuel economy is about average compared to other vehicles in its class. The Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road, for instance, gets a combined 28 MPG with its four-cylinder engine, which is quite a bit better. The Honda CR-V, another popular choice, gets even better fuel economy, often exceeding 30 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive models.

Even the Subaru Forester, which comes standard with all-wheel drive, gets around 29 MPG combined. However, none of these have the same level of off-road capability as the Cherokee with Active Drive II. The choice depends on what you value most; buyers who want the best fuel efficiency will probably choose the RAV4 or CR-V, while those who want off-road capability might find the Cherokee’s trade-off acceptable.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the 2019 Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II isn’t meant to be a fuel saver, owners can take steps to improve its efficiency.

Avoid accelerating hard and braking suddenly, because the V6 engine uses more fuel when pushed hard. Driving smoothly and carefully will help keep the engine in its most efficient range, increasing fuel economy.

Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure often, especially when the temperature changes, and keep it at the pressure listed on the tire placard.

Don’t use four-wheel-drive unless you need the extra traction. Keep the vehicle in two-wheel-drive mode when you don’t need it. This reduces the load on the powertrain and improves fuel economy, especially on dry roads, which significantly contributes to fuel loss in many 4×4 vehicles.

Regular maintenance, like oil changes and air filter replacements, is critical for engine performance and fuel economy. A clean air filter ensures the engine gets enough air, and fresh oil reduces friction and improves efficiency. Follow the maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual.