Are you shopping for used Jeeps for sale? If it’s an adventurous, powerful, and comfortable midsize SUV you are after, then you should check out a Jeep Grand Cherokee. This versatile and energetic vehicle is available in four-wheel drive or rear-wheel-drive variants, displaying its chameleon-like nature. Those who want the iconic off-road capabilities of a Jeep can opt for a 4WD model, while those looking for improved fuel economy might consider a rear-wheel drive one. It’s also available with several engine options and comes in a variety of trims. Today, however, we want to discuss what to look for if you want a used Jeep Grand Cherokee but are looking to save money on fuel.
We know that people are becoming more interested in fuel-efficient vehicles as gas prices continue to skyrocket. Sometimes, getting a vehicle known for off-road features can mean compromising on fuel efficiency, but that doesn’t have to be the case with the Jeep Grand Cherokee. In fact, since 2014, Jeep has created several features and even a model that will appeal to the fuel-conscious driver while delivering all the features you know and love in this midsize SUV. Below we’ll cover features to look for if you are shopping for a used Jeep Grand Cherokee and are prioritizing fuel economy, particularly model years from 2014 to present.
Stop-Start Technology That Turns Your Engine Off When You Don’t Need It
If you find a 2016 or newer Jeep Grand Cherokee, you will benefit from the stop-start technology that Jeep introduced to its vehicles equipped with the V6 engine during this model year. So, how does this technology boost the economy? It actually turns a vehicle engine off when it is not needed. For example, if you are barely moving in bumper-to-bumper traffic and eventually have to come to a full stop until things clear up, the engine will automatically turn off. Or if you get stuck at a stop sign for a long time while a crossing guard helps children across the street, the engine will turn off. Some experts say the technology can improve fuel efficiency by over seven percent. Depending on driving conditions, some drivers even see more of a boost in fuel economy.
So, while we know the Jeep Grand Cherokee is popular among drivers who want to escape from congested environments, we also know sometimes real life pulls you back into the city or the suburbs. And that can mean a lot of traffic and waiting around. Stop-start technology can reduce how much gas is wasted in these circumstances.
The Quadra-Lift Air Suspension System Boosts Aerodynamics
On any Jeep Grand Cherokee 2014 model year or newer, you will benefit from the Quadra-Lift air suspension system. This system is fun for obvious, off-road-focused reasons, like the fact that it can significantly increase your ground clearance and make it easier to travel over uneven and predictable rain, as well as ford water. As for fuel economy, you’ll see the benefits when you use the system to lower your vehicle. Lowering your vehicle can increase aerodynamics and cut down on wind resistance, which boosts fuel efficiency.
Plan on taking advantage of the Grand Cherokee’s towing capabilities or even its spacious trunk? Lowering the ride height can also boost fuel efficiency when carrying heavy loads. It can keep the vehicle level, reducing stress on certain parts and, once again, cutting down on wind resistance. Once you arrive at your wilder destination, you can always raise the vehicle again.
Eco Mode for a More Efficient Performance
Also new for 2014 vehicles and available on any model since then is Eco Mode. The Jeep Grand Cherokee has long been known for having adjustable drive modes, but Eco Mode specifically works to improve fuel economy. It does this by shifting the eight-speed transmission schedule and torque converter as well as reducing your idle speed to improve MPG. You can even see how well the system is working on your instrument panel, which will show you Eco Mode is hard at work improving fuel economy. Eco Mode is one of many drive modes you can access in a Jeep Grand Cherokee, so you can adjust its dynamics to meet your environment and driving behaviors.
Cylinder Deactivation Technology
While we know you love the power of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and all that it offers in terms of towing and exploring, sometimes you don’t need it all. That’s why we love the fuel-saver technology available in 2014 and newer models. Also known as Cylinder Deactivation Technology, this system can shut off certain cylinders when you do not need the vehicle’s full power, improving fuel efficiency.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
We saved the best for last. There’s no denying that if you’re serious about spending less on fuel, you need to check out the 2022 or newer Jeep Grand Cherokee. Why? Because that’s when Jeep created the Grand Cherokee 4xe, a plug-in hybrid model. Combining a traditional gas engine with battery power, the Grand Cherokee 4xe gets you the best of both worlds: power and fuel efficiency. The 2022 model boasts 26 miles of all-electric range; however, if you utilize the fuel and battery, you can enjoy 56 MPGe for a longer stretch between charging or gas stations.
Boasting 375 hp, 470 lb-ft of torque, and 6,000 lbs of towing power, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe won’t leave you missing anything about the traditional gas engine model. It comes standard with a two-speed transfer case and that beloved Quadra-Lift air suspension system, plus some great crawling ratios. So it’s ready for adventure while saving you money at the pump.
Efficient Adventure Awaits Behind the Wheel of a Pre-Owned Grand Cherokee
Most drivers know the Jeep Grand Cherokee for its adventure-ready nature, but drivers prioritizing fuel economy can get behind the wheel of this popular midsize SUV and enjoy both its rugged design and efficiency. Fuel prices are unpredictable these days, and if you’re going to use the Grand Cherokee as intended—to explore everything the Great Outdoors has to offer—you want to be able to venture off the pavement without worrying about stopping the adventure to refuel. In 2014, Jeep started to make a clear push towards more fuel-efficient technologies, which culminated in the PHEV Jeep Grand Cherokee of 2022, which you can now take full advantage of on the used market.
Jeep vehicles are durable and made to last, so a used one should deliver you plenty of value and many more miles on the road while helping you avoid that brand-new price tag. Add the fuel efficiency features we discussed today, and you can save money on the vehicle, as well as the pump. As is often the case, you’ll see better fuel economy when you opt for a RWD rather than a 4WD model, but the beauty of the Grand Cherokee is there are so many trims to explore and engines to choose from, so even if you skip a 4WD model, you can still access some pretty epic adventure trims and features. Who says you have to compromise fuel economy to answer the call of the wild? Make the Grand Cherokee your faithful travel companion.
