Overview & Reviews

At first glance, the Jeep Patriot crossover evokes the boxy, go-anywhere Jeep Cherokee of old. And that's the way Jeep wants it. But underneath, the Patriot utilizes the same platform as the old, discontinued -- and generally unloved -- Dodge Caliber hatchback. Fundamentally more of an economy car than a real SUV, the Patriot is a tough pill for the Jeep faithful to swallow.

You do get respectable approach and departure angles, ample ground clearance and the availability of a serious four-wheel-drive package that adds low-range gearing and skid plates, among other goodies. But when you get right down to it, there's just not a lot of substance behind the Patriot's bold face. Other vehicles in the segment offer roomier interiors, more standard features, higher fuel economy, stronger performance, superior fit and finish and comparable off-road capability. Overall, we think most shoppers will be better served by looking elsewhere.

Current Jeep Patriot
The Jeep Patriot is a compact crossover available in three main trim levels: Sport, Latitude and Limited. The base Sport doesn't even come with full power accessories or air-conditioning, but it makes do with basics like 16-inch steel wheels, cruise control and a four-speaker sound system. The Latitude adds the Sport's missing features plus alloy wheels, a height-adjustable driver seat and heated front seats. The Limited boasts rear disc brakes (the others get rear drums), leather upholstery and automatic climate control. Options include distinctive flip-down tailgate speakers, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, a 6.5-inch touchscreen and roof rails.

The standard engine for front-wheel-drive Sport and Latitude models is a 158-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder that makes 172 hp is optional on those trims and standard on the Limited trim, as well as on all Patriots that have four-wheel drive. The Sport and Latitude come standard with a five-speed manual transmission and are eligible for a six-speed automatic, while the Limited gets the automatic as standard. The limited-edition Altitude and High Altitude sub-trims are equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

There are two four-wheel-drive systems offered. The first, a single-speed system that's technically just all-wheel drive, can be paired with either the manual or six-speed automatic transmission in Sport trim, but the automatic comes standard on the higher trims. Opting for Freedom Drive II four-wheel drive substitutes the CVT but also adds low-range gearing, all-terrain tires, skid plates, hill ascent and descent control, front and rear tow hooks and a full-size spare tire.

Due to its slim profile and high load floor, the Patriot doesn't have a lot of space inside. The rear seats are on the tight side and storage space is limited. The rear seatbacks fold down in a 60/40 split to open up 53.5 cubic feet of storage space, but most rivals offer significantly more.

In reviews, we've found the Jeep Patriot disappointing from behind the wheel. The ride quality is relatively crude, thanks to a suspension that's easily unsettled by imperfect roads, and the cabin is pretty noisy at speed. The 2.4-liter four delivers just adequate acceleration with the manual or six-speed automatic, and it's lethargic with the CVT. The base 2.0-liter four, meanwhile, is underpowered and barely more fuel-efficient than the 2.4. Even models equipped with Freedom Drive II fail to convince, since there are other compact SUVs out there that perform just fine in the dirt while offering a superior experience in civilization. Another major complaint concerns the lackluster quality of the Patriot's interior materials.

Used Jeep Patriot Models
The Jeep Patriot was introduced for 2007. Some features were added a year later, but 2009 saw the first big changes in the form of a new and improved interior. Prior to that, the crummy hard plastics created one of the worst cabins on the market. For 2010, the 158-hp four-cylinder could be paired to the five-speed manual for the first time. These 2007-'10 Patriots lack the upgrades made to the 2011 model, including minor exterior styling changes, improved interior trim, reworked steering and suspension systems, and a taller 4WD ride height. The six-speed automatic didn't appear until the 2014 model year, which is also when front-seat side airbags became standard across the lineup.

User Reviews:

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  I hate this cheap plastic car - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By rfernandez - June 14 - 2:40 am

  I would have never bought this plastic cheap car if i ever knew how poorly made it was. My jeep has been taken back to the dealer ship over 30 times for the sunroof plastic falling the door trim snapping out of place, for it turning off out of no where, for the electrical windows not shutting every now and again for the alarm, for the bottom plastic trim for the entire airbag system that had to be replaced

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  A Ray of Sun - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By Mr Rod - June 13 - 7:30 am

  I have only had My Patriot for 2 days now, but I must say I love it. I traded in a 02 Maxima. I has excellent room for me and 3 other adults has plenty power and is great on gas. I love the Orange Burst Pearl color, very unique for a Jeep!! I feel larger than it really is, as I look over the long hood. The handling is also great this thing turns on a dime! It also has a forgiving ride that doesnt hurt my liver as i hit imperfections on the horrible roads in Louisiana! Jeep you created a lovely SUV for the masses!!

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  Worth Every Penny - 2010 Jeep Patriot
  By the_jeep_now - June 10 - 8:46 am

  I bought my Patriot new. It came w/ CVT which takes some time to get used to, but once you manage it, its a great feature. I liked the selection of trims. You can get bone stock w/ no AC to a fully loaded Limited. I picked a package that fit my needs which includes power locks, mirrors, windows, AC and cruise control. Folding rear and passenger seats provide tons of space to carry oversized items. It has best fuel economy in its class. Depending on the trim you choose, you can get 30+ mpg hwy. Great vehicle for any outdoor adventures! However, it is known for weak/cheap front suspension components which go bad at around 40k+ miles and water leaks. For more info check out jeeppatriot forum.

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  Patriot Update Bought a Second one... - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By NewJeepGirl - June 2 - 10:50 am

  Weve had 4 winter storms to date. Last storm dumped 10 inches. Drove home with no problems-slight slip in the intersections, but even our 97 Expedition slipped in that too. Very capable in the snow! Used 4WD lock to get in the driveway-works great! My husband loves mine so much, we just got him one yesterday-stripper for $17K-how can you beat that for the milage and 4WD? Even the vinyl seats dont feel cheap-looks like leather. Still has side impact airbags, ABS, electronic stablility control, tire pressure alarm light and outside temp guage. A lot of bang for the buck- plus its a nice Marine blue-very sharp! Looking forward to better milage. Trading 96 RAV 4 thats only getting 20MPG.

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  Trouble, Stay Away! - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By mottea97 - May 26 - 10:00 am

  It is a great car until it started to leak from the rear dome light. No one at Chrysler can seem to figure out why. It has been to the Dealer 5 time and the leak still occurs, not to mention the horrid brake scream that has been cleaned 3 times and returns. Great on space, Seats need work and form fitting for comfort. The 2.4L engine is way underpowered for moving a vehicle like that. Sometimes you have to pray that the car will make it passing and not end up in an accident.

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  Greatest little SUV thatll save your life - 2010 Jeep Patriot
  By desi_o - May 13 - 7:11 am

  Beautiful modern design in & out but quality of materials very cheap & features very basic, the bumpers cant take a hit for nothing. As a teen I shoved multiple friends in this car & took many road trips racking up 65k miles in 2 yrs still it performed amazingly, the seats are pretty comfortable especially the back seats & it has an amazing standard sound system! I ultimately had a tire blowout, due to negligence, at 60mph on a slippery, empty highway & crashed 3 times very hard totaling my baby but noone in the car even had whiplash due to the active head-restraints that activate during a crash. Besides a rust problem with the driver door & trunk door hinge this car was a great first!

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  "Crash Tested" Patriot - 2010 Jeep Patriot
  By VA-Nurese - April 30 - 3:40 am

  I bought a new Jeep Patriot in June on 2009. After owing it for only 6 months I was involved in a head on collision with another lager SUV at a combined speed of over 100 mph. My boyfriend and I walked away from the accident with only mild injuries compared to the severity of the accident. My Jeep was totaled, but I think that it preformed remarkably well under the conditions. The EMTs at the crash and my doctor in the ER both said that it was amazing that we were not hurt worse or dead. When all was said and done I purchased another Jeep Patriot to replace my 09 as I felt very safe in this car after our accident. I would recommend the Jeep Patriot to anyone.

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  Awesome - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By Angela - April 29 - 11:16 am

  Ive recently purchased the new 2008 Jeep Patriot Sport 4x2 (2.0 L Engine 6SPD), and I have no regrets! Its built to take 87 Octane gas, which is great by the way especially in our current economic status, and it is fast for a 2.0 liter! My Patriot comes with 158 HP and I cant wait to add an intake and performance chip. It handles well and surprisingly superior on curves. Im an SUV person and all the previous SUVs Ive had have been gas consuming and poor handlers. The Jeep Patriot is stable enough with a wonderful ground clearance. Its beautiful and resembles the 90s top selling Jeep Grand Cherokee body style, but it will definitely turn heads.

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  I heart my Jeep! - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By mkinthecity - April 15 - 8:20 am

  With the continual climb in gasoline prices & my need for a 4WD vehicle for the wintry conditions of New England, I needed a rugged yes stylish car to get me to & fro work & play safely. After searching the market for a compact SUV, I stumbled upon the Patriot. I couldnt be happier that I did! The price was right and the design is classic Jeep through and through. The heated leather seats, moon roof, and standard Sirius Radio on the Limited Edition, it was love at first test drive! Easy to maneuver around town and in tight parking spaces, but surprisingly roomy on the inside... couldnt ask for a better combination. A definitive mix of spunk and sexy...WARNING: Cute-utes beware...

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  Transmission - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By jeep owner - April 14 - 10:00 am

  We have one of the groaning, rattly and very noisy transmission patriots. We were very happy with the jeep until we hit 45,000 km. The noise started, took jeep in several times received all sorts of different comments from the service dept. At one point we were told we would require a new tranny, but it is still road worthy. Chrysler Canada test drove and said no to transmission. Biggest problem, we turn heads when driving at slow speeds and the jeep vibrates. How can we sell a vehicle in good faith when it talks that loud? Not happy