At first glance, the Jeep Patriot’s exterior will probably remind many people of the upright, boxy Jeep Cherokee of old. And that’s the way Jeep wants it. But underneath, the Jeep Patriot utilizes the same platform as the Jeep Compass and the Dodge Caliber, two vehicles that get nervous at the first sight of a dirt road. Setting the Jeep Patriot apart are steeper approach and departure angles, a low-range gear, slightly higher ground clearance and the availability of an optional package that adds protective skid plates.
The heritage styling and extra smidge of off-pavement ability combine with a low price to make the Jeep Patriot a potentially attractive package for some buyers.
The Jeep Patriot SUV is available in three trim levels: a base Sport model, Latitude and Latitude X. The standard engine for front-wheel-drive models is a 158-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 172 hp is available as an option and comes standard with four-wheel-drive Patriots. Both engines feature a five-speed manual transmission, with a continuously variable automatic offered as an option.
Since the Jeep Patriot is billed as the rugged entry-level Jeep, the four-wheel drive is intended primarily for light off-road or inclement weather conditions. Those who like to drive on more demanding terrain will likely benefit from the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Group package that adds an extra-low “off-road” gear, all-terrain tires, skid plates, hill descent and start control, front and rear tow hooks and a full-size spare tire.
The Jeep Patriot feels well-balanced, even over bumps, and corners capably, with limited body roll. The Patriot’s 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is rated near the top of the class in terms of power.