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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  Good for the purpose - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By Frans Dubois - December 8 - 2:53 pm

  The Jeep Patriot is a basic car, and that shows. If you want a vehicle to transport you in a reliable fashion from A to B, without hassle and irrespective of the road conditions, this is the utility car for you and me. Little fancy stuff, although I do like the boom box in the lift gate (optional). The interior provides a great feel for space as the windscreen is steep and distant from the front seats. Compare that to a sedan or a station wagon! The CVT requires some time to get accustomed to as the engine first revs up to max torque before the acceleration starts. More noise at first, but then the car really moves, despite the relatively small engine. Ground clearance is large and clean

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  Nice little SUV - 2011 Jeep Patriot
  By cn2010 - December 6 - 2:16 am

  Just bought my 2011 Jeep Patriot and it exceeds my expectations. The MSRP was $23,600 but comes very well equipped with heated seats and remote start! I thought the CVT would be an issue but paired with my optional AutoStick you can get by the slightly sluggish automatic shifting. In fact the AutoShift is the BEST manul/auto shifting system Ive ever used. The shifting is instantaneous and satisfying! Styling is very nice from the outside and functional, clean and well designed inside. Part time 4x4 system is insurance in snowy weather. Highly recommeded!

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  Love My Jeep Light - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By Karen - December 5 - 8:33 pm

  I owned a Jeep Grand Cherokee for 11 years and wanted another Jeep. Decided to try a bare bones model instead and couldnt be happier. Great car with all the reliability I have come to count on with a Jeep. Its tight handling and good fuel economy have made driving it a real pleasure. I love the "Old School" look of the front of the car. I affectionately refer to it as my " Jeep Light" all the things I have come to love about the Jeep brand, at a lower price tag.

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  2012 Patriot 4x2 Latitude - Altitude Edition - 2012 Jeep Patriot
  By bmckeeman - November 25 - 9:41 am

  I have been considering purchasing a Patriot since they first came out, and since then they have made tons of improvements! I test drove a 2010 did not like it enough to make the commitment. My last vehicle was an 03 Corolla, so it was quite a change for me. I wanted a car with lots of cargo space and decent mileage, so I looked at some smaller cars like the Fit, Impreza, and XV Crosstrek. I found the Patriot to be the best combo of style, utility, mileage for my tastes. I have wanted a Jeep ever since I was a kid, and the Patriot delivers! I finally chose a White Altitude Edition, which is an amazing color combo! LOVE my Pat!

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  Great Buy - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By Trader Rick - November 17 - 12:16 am

  14 months and 18,000 miles after purchase I have no regrets. The patriot is a versatile vehicle that is good! On gas, in foll weather, on the purchase price and oddly enough ( resale value ) because its a Jeep. This Jeep is fun to drive to the local store and comfortable on a 500 mile trip. Avg. 23 to 27 mpg. With the 2.4 engine and CVT trans. Before purchase I also drove, cr-v, rav4 and Forester. The patriot was the hardest to take back and when I did I bought it. No regrets.

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  Nice Small SUV - 2011 Jeep Patriot
  By ejuoi - November 9 - 12:28 pm

  Its a nice little SUV. Rides like a car on the streets but feels more like an SUV when it comes to riding on rough roads. Go with the 215/225 tires for best ride. The 2.4 litter engine is adequate on power and it never disappoints for everyday driving. The CVT transmission needs time to get used to because at first its buzzy but after a couple of hundred miles the Engine/Cvt settle down and it becomes nice and smooth on sound. The interior is very nice, you definitely know youre in a Jeep. It feels very roomy considering its a smaller SUV. The exterior is very nice from all angles. Ive gotten nothing but compliments from friends. Someone said it looks like a mini Hummer H2. It does!

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  Love it - highly recommended - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By swampmom - November 3 - 5:56 pm

  We needed a new vehicle that would accommodate our two growing children and something that had decent mileage for my 134 mile daily round trip work commute. Honda Fit and other like vehicles didnt offer free safety features such as side impact airbags and A/C were considered OPTIONAL. We were floored when we found the Jeep Patriot (base model.) It offered more room, the standard features that we needed, really good gas mileage, and a fun, TONKA toy kind of ride. On this last tank of gas we averaged 26.8 MPG! Being in the NOLA area, I also wanted something big enough to sleep in if we had to evacuate:) You get a heck of a lot of bang for your buck with a Jeep Patriot!

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  9 month update - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By Luganathan - October 28 - 2:26 pm

  Have now owned my Patriot for nine months. This vehicle is better than expected. Drives much better than my previous vehicle with was a Forester. The new interior design on the 09 really makes you feel like your driving a luxury crossover. Once you learn how to drive the CVT is becomes very smooth and a joy to drive. I did have the dreaded front dome light leak in April, i brought it in, they replaced a seal and after a record breaking amount of rainfall over the summer I have not had any other problems with it. Once the CVT gets broken in a little, gas mileage improves. I now average about 25.5 on the highway (on long trips) and 22+ city. Pretty good for a 4x4.

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  I love my Patriot - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By Maureen - October 24 - 4:13 am

  I love my 09 Jeep Patriot; it is a pleasure driving it; this is my first Jeep product and Im very satisfied. I drove the 09 Toyota RAV-4 and the 09 Honda CRV and I did not like them but when I drove the Patriot I felt in love with it. The interior is so comfortable and the design is so elegant; it is easy to maintain. The exterior design is so cute, perfect size, easy to park, in other words it is the best SUV for its class: (economic + reliable + comfortable). I have driven about 3600 miles and more I drive it more I love it. Thanks Chrysler for this wonderful product! Maureen, Ft. Lauderdale FL.

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  A Tough Little Jeep - 2017 Jeep Patriot
  By Jerry - October 6 - 5:21 am

  We have owned the Patriot for over a year. Having last owned a Grand Cherokee, the Patriot does not ride as smooth or quiet, but it is satisfactory. Handling and braking are superb. The 2.4 liter has plenty of power for passing. Mileage is consistently around 26 mpg. Being FWD/4X4 makes for great traction on snow and ice in the mountains where live (elevation 3,000). Our big dogs fit comfortably in the back. We are about to endeavor in full-time motor home travel with the Patriot as a "toad". At 3,600# it is just right for towing on a dolly and should give us great service for all climates and terrain. The six speed/manual transmission allows for downshifting on mountain roads without excessive braking as the "flat-landers" tend to do. So far, no issues to complain about. For the money, the Patriot is a good buy.