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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  do not buy - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By jt9813 - October 1 - 8:32 pm

  I have a 2008 Jeep Patriot with 58,000 miles. I have to replace the transmission and ball joints for total cost of $4700. The 2000 Jeep Patriot has a 5 year or 100,000 mile warranty but it is not transferable to this 2nd owner. I have talked to Jeep but with no success. If you check out the internet you will see that is a typical problem with the Jeep Patriot and Compass. Save yourself a lot of money and aggravation do not buy this vehicle.

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  Great choice for SUV fans - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By GP Fan - October 1 - 4:26 am

  Ive only had the Patriot for two weeks, but I already know I made a good decision in picking this vehicle. I looked at several comparable models including the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, and Ford Escape. Those are all nice vehicles, but seemed to be somewhat overpriced compared to the features of the Patriot. I bought the Sport 4x4 with the CVT transmission. With only 650 miles, Im getting 27 MPG on the hwy, which is 3 MPG above the EPA rating. Combined is 23 MPG. Seat comfort is good considering there is no power option. Plenty of leg room front and rear. Build quality is very good. Anyone looking at a small SUV should consider this one. Check out the forums on the Patriot.

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  Best Bang For Your Buck - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By Kelvin Toulmin - September 29 - 5:26 pm

  This is the best bang for your buck in its class. Pure Jeep, no frills. Fun factor way up there. I bought 2.

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  MPG of a car with a ton more room! - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By J. Steele - September 29 - 5:13 am

  If you are looking for a no frills vehicle with just your basic comforts, this is a great choice. The price is also a huge plus. For basic driving, the Patriot is comfortable and very adequate. I am 6 ft 1, and I have plenty of room, as well as good foot room for backseat passengers. The LED detachable light is great and so is the IPOD jack.

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  Fun to Drive - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By Wolfgang - September 29 - 2:23 am

  We have owned this Patriot since February 2008. We are glad that we chose and were able to get the manual transmission with the 2.4L engine. You need to plan to accelerate and be in the right gear when passing or other. Yes, it would be nice to have more power (or maybe a small turbo), but it has been a great vehicle. For the price and options we have, it has delivered all we expected and more. The only "glitch" has been on rare occasions where we have experienced some type of "unbalance" when driving and using the 4 x 4. It is not a wheel or tire issue, possibly something with the transfer case. We plan to replace it with an identical model, if we can find one on a dealer lot someday

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  Worst headache vehicle ever - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By Scott - September 19 - 11:03 pm

  This vehicle was a manufacturer buyback. It has been nothing but a major headache and stress producer. The engine is way underpowered for the body size. The seats quickly became very uncomfortable. The transmission keeps overheating and Chrysler has replace all the cheap parts but refuses to replace the actual transmission which is obviously the problem. Stay away.

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  patriot limited 5spd manual - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By pajobx - September 1 - 7:36 am

  this car is just bad no power when you step on the gas does not handle well on rain or snow only comes in 5spd no 6spd i feel for this car to be better needs to have 6cylinders with 250horspower i will never buy a jeep patriot again gas tank only takes 12.5gal you need to fil twice a week audio controls in back of steering wheel interior all plastic,buy german

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  I LOVE MY 2016 PATRIOT - 2016 Jeep Patriot
  By moondoggie - August 30 - 10:26 am

  Do understand the bad reviews...I had a RAVE4...which was an excellent car...NO REPAIRS AT ALL after 11years. But the Patriot blows it away in comfort, space, and quality of interior. The top of doors are padded, the dosh controls are easiest to navigate of ANY vehicle I ever had. The dash board is flat and hold a cell phone holder easily without blocking vision. There is an actual SHELF in it as well ...for a GPS, tablet, kleenex, sunglasses, etc.This is my first Jeep also. There is alot of head and leg-room, even for my 6" husband. I have the High Altitude Pkg...I love the leather seats and interior . I have a Mastiff and the hair doesnt stick at all. He has PLENTY of room in the back seat. There are 3 ports for charging things, there is an actual PLUG..like in your house, for shaver, coffee warmer, night-light or whatever! It is NOT the fastest thing ..nothing like my Camaro. But it isnt that kind of car. Its for kids, dogs, baggage, toys and activities. Who wants a race car for that? It handles the road , water, ice and snow GREAT...it has front drive. The 430 Sirius radio is excellent too. The gear shifter itself could be smoother...but who cares? It has a VERY smooth ride....turns, stears and breaks fabulously. It has more storage space and little cubbies for stuff all over the place. NO OTHER suv I tried had any. That is very important when your a woman...lots of things you need at hand. As far as the engine reviews, I dont know much about that. The gas mileage is good. The comfort of the seats cant be beat. The driver seat raises...I sit about 4-5" higher than the passenger seat...so I have great vision as well. Just thought I would mention these things...The patriot seems to get an undeseved bas wrap! If you want a COMFORTABL versital vehicle ...and you spend alot of time driving...you will love the Patriot!

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  SUV Bargain - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By JerZee Joe - August 26 - 7:30 am

  This is my first Jeep and it is great! I always liked Jeep but never liked the mileage they got. Quiet, smooth, solid, affordable 4x4 ride. I did not experience any excessive road noise. Fun to drive, lots of comments on its great looks. With a 13.5 gallon tank it doesnt break the bank on fillups. The mileage keeps getting better the more I drive it. In driving to Tennessee it took the mountains with ease. Although it isnt a speed demon off the line,the engine is adequate for the vehicle, handles well. If you looking for more speed and power, then dont purchase an economy vehicle and wish it had more power. Plenty of storage room, I like the wide dash. Jeep has a winner with the Patriot!

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  Cant beat the deal! - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By Frank - August 18 - 10:16 pm

  This is by far the best small SUV for the price. I have the 2WD with a 5 speed and its fairly quick, and consistently has been getting 33 MPG on the highway!!!