Which Jeep has the best fuel consumption?

The Jeep nameplate is not one that is often associated with fuel efficiency, and frankly, very few American brands are. It's a name that's more often associated with adventure, lifestyle and the ability to go anywhere and do anything. From humble, utilitarian beginnings, the Jeep brand has carved out a niche for itself both on the road and off of it. It's easy to see why so many adventurous spirits gravitate towards the brand, looking to showcase to the world their hunger for adventure.

Related: Used car running cost - Jeep

But how are you going to go on the kayaking trip down the Zambezi or gaze down on the valleys from the top of Prince Albert's pass if you can't afford the fuel to get there in the first place? Owning a Jeep is one things but affording the fuel to actually use it is another thing. On the opposite side of the spectrum is the homebody that just wishes to commute in something different, something stylish and something that says something about them. The last thing they want is a vehicle that breaks the bank every time they stop at the pumps.

 

Jeep fuel consumption compared

There are several models which are no longer available in South Africa so instead we're focussing on those that are still available for purchase new from the dealerships. Below is a list of the current Jeep range, what powers them and what Jeep claims you should be able to achieve from them in terms of fuel economy on the combined cycle. naturally, driving styles and traffic variables will mean that you may stray from this number somewhat, so use it only as an indication, rather than a rule.

 

Jeep Renegade

The Jeep Renegade is the smallest Jeep offering and shares its underpinnings with the Fiat 500X. The long-wheelbase version of this platform serves in the latest Alfa Romeo Tonale as well. Both the Logitude and Limited trim levels are powered by the same 1.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 103 kW and 230 Nm torque, sending power to the front wheels only. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic DDC gearbox.

Jeep Renegade claimed fuel consumption: 5.9 l/100km

 

Jeep Wrangler

The quintessential Jeep, the Wrangler is available in a few trim levels and configurations but they all share the same power plant. The tried-and-tested Pentastar 3.6-litre V6 is still used in the latest incarnation of the model that replaced the original CJ. Revised for improved fuel consumption and power, this unit is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and can send power to all 4 wheels. Available in Sport, Rubicon, and Unlimited Rubicon flavours, each lists a different claimed fuel consumption.

Jeep Wrangler 3.6 Sport claimed fuel consumption: 9.7 l/100km

Jeep Wrangler 3.6 Rubicon claimed fuel consumption: 10.1 l/100km

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 3.6 Rubicon claimed fuel consumption: 10.3 l/100km

 

Jeep Gladiator

Much has been written about this newcomer to the local scene, the vehicle that combined the rugged good looks of the Wrangler and meshes it with the practicality of a double cab LCV/Bakkie. This model also uses the 3.6-litre naturally aspirated Pentastar V6, producing 209 kW and 347 Nm in the process. It employs an 8-speed ZF gearbox and can send power to all 4 wheels for a true 'Trail Rated' experience.

Jeep Gladiator 3.6 Rubicon double cab claimed fuel consumption: 12.4 l/100km

 

Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The local flagship model, the Grand Cherokee L is an imposing vehicle that is available in three distinct trim levels; Limited, Overland, and Summit Reserve. All three use the same 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 that, in a slightly different arrangement, produces 210 kW and 344 Nm torque. All three use an 8-speed ZF gearbox and have true 4x4 capabilities. The claimed fuel consumption is the same for all three trim levels.

Jeep Grand Cherokee L claimed fuel consumption: 10.6 l/100km