22 MPG combined, that’s the headline for the 2023 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This figure tells you this isn’t a Prius, and it’s not supposed to be. The Trailhawk is the off-road-oriented trim and sacrifices some efficiency for real capability when the pavement ends, and that’s why its buyers accept this compromise.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Cherokee Trailhawk at 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. This difference suggests the vehicle spends most of its time in urban or suburban environments, mixed with occasional highway trips. The 9-speed automatic transmission is programmed to upshift quickly, keeping the revs low for fuel efficiency, but don’t forget to use the Selec-Terrain system. Its settings adjust the powertrain for performance in different conditions, potentially helping fuel economy in scenarios like slippery surfaces.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD at $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices at the time. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and climate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures are a starting point, real-world MPG for the Cherokee Trailhawk will change. Aggressive driving, off-road trips, and adding aftermarket accessories like roof racks or larger tires will hurt fuel economy. However, drivers who accelerate smoothly, anticipate traffic, and keep their tires inflated might see numbers closer to the EPA estimates, or even better on long highway trips.

How it compares

The Cherokee Trailhawk’s fuel economy isn’t amazing compared to its competition. A Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road, for example, gets 28 MPG combined. Even the more powerful Honda CR-V with all-wheel drive achieves 29 combined MPG. The Subaru Forester Wilderness, another competitor, gets around 26 MPG combined. These numbers show the Trailhawk’s trade-off: better off-road hardware comes at the cost of less gas. For buyers who want to tackle trails, the lower MPG may be acceptable, especially given the all Jeep fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Cherokee Trailhawk’s turbocharged engine responds well to smooth, consistent throttle inputs. Avoid sudden bursts of acceleration, especially from a standstill. Gentle acceleration saves fuel and minimizes wear and tear on the drivetrain.

Tire pressure is important, especially with the tires on the Trailhawk. Check your tire pressures regularly, using the recommended pressure on the door jamb sticker. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Adjust pressure based on load and temperature.

The Selec-Terrain system adjusts the vehicle for terrains, but it can also help on pavement. “Auto” mode provides the best balance of performance and fuel efficiency for everyday driving. Don’t use the 4-Low setting unless you need the extra traction; it will decrease fuel mileage.

Reduce weight. The Trailhawk is already heavy, and extra weight in the cabin or cargo area will decrease fuel efficiency. Remove items you don’t need. Considering researching CHEROKEE MPG across all years might give you better understanding of its fuel usage.